History
Why Study History at U of G?
History isn’t just about memorizing dates and names – it’s like solving a giant puzzle of human experience. Ever wondered how political decisions, technological advances, and social movements shaped our world today? History gives you the answers by delving into the stories and struggles of people from different cultures and times who have shaped our world. Plus, it teaches us valuable lessons and helps us avoid making the same old mistakes.
But History isn’t just about the past – it’s the key that connects all subjects together. Studying history is seriously fascinating. Imagine exploring ancient civilizations, revolutions, and global conflicts – From exploring Canada to delving into places like China, Scotland, and Africa. It’s like binge-watching the best documentary series ever, but with the bonus of understanding how our world got to where it is.
Drive Positive Change and Preserve Cultural Heritage
Develop adaptable skills and insights to preserve our cultural heritage and our collective memory. Helping us to learn from the past while shaping societal progress and present-day decisions.
Explore History Through Real-World Experiences
Engage with artifacts, university archives, and global studies, enriching your education with hands-on learning, diverse perspectives, and immersive cultural experiences.
Sharpen Critical Thinking and Persuasive Writing Skills
Hone your ability to analyze historical data and craft awesome stories, essential for navigating complex issues and influencing others in today’s interconnected world.
To see all courses offered in the History program, visit our Academic Calendar.
Gain Valuable Co-op Experience
The History Co-op program lasts four and a half years with up to four work terms. Sample Co-op roles include education assistant, workplace engagement officer, and research analyst. Co-op placements provide valuable experience to enhance your resume and career. Learn more about the History Co-op program.
Careers for History Majors
But it’s not just about the past – History teaches us how to think critically, analyze evidence and understand complex ideas. These skills are for any career path you whether it’s law, business, journalism, or public service. Employers love history graduates because they know how to research, make sense of information, and see the big picture.
Here are just a few careers our graduates have successfully pursued:
- Archivist/historian
- Copywriter
- Educational consultant
- Foreign service officer
- Policy analyst
- Library technician
- Program Officer
- Policy and research assistant
Hear From Current Students and Alumni
I had the pleasure and honor of working my most recent Co-op work term as the inaugural Intern for the Centre for Scottish Studies of the History Department. Throughout my work term with the Centre, I spent three hours twice a week in McLaughlan Library’s Archives Reading Room scanning letters and various documents in the Urquhart-Campbell-Sutherland Papers, created X posts to improve the reach and subscriptions for the International Review of Scottish Studies, assisted on the Duff House project by looking through 20th-21st century newspaper articles, transcribing 19th-century newspaper letters on Lock Hospitals and Magdalene Asylums in Scotland, and transcribing a landlord-tenant record into a Microsoft Excel sheet for further research.
I became involved with the History Society and enjoyed all the events they ran throughout the year. I participated in the Book Auction in April, the Ghost Walk in November, Meet the Profs in September, the Museum Tour in February, and the History Trivia Night in January. I helped set up these events, engaged with students and provided information on the History Society and History Program.
Discover More Options
Students considering History may also be interested in Anthropology, Art History, Classical and Modern Cultures, French Studies, Political Science, or other programs.
Admission Requirements
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Scholarships & Bursaries
We offer a wide range of financial aid programs to assist with funding your education at the University of Guelph.
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