History Mount Allison University

Overview

The History programme at Mount Allison University provides a comprehensive examination of the political, social, and cultural forces that have defined human experience. Students engage with a rigorous academic curriculum designed to foster a deep understanding of how past events continue to influence the contemporary world.

This course of study encourages participants to analyse complex historical narratives while developing versatile communication skills. By exploring the tensions between war and peace, or faith and science, students gain the intellectual tools necessary for global citizenship. The curriculum is structured to ensure both breadth of knowledge and thematic depth.

The department offers multiple pathways for academic specialisation, including a 60-credit major and a 69-credit honours track.

Why History at Mount Allison University?

Mount Allison University is consistently recognised by Maclean’s as a premier undergraduate institution in Canada, offering a high-quality learning environment. The department provides distinctive teaching features, including the opportunity for independent studies in the final year. This allows for the pursuit of niche topics not covered in the standard curriculum.

Students benefit from exceptional facilities, such as the University Archives located in the R.P. Bell Library. These archives house records dating back to 1839, providing a rich repository of primary source materials for original research. Such resources enable students to gain practical experience in historical preservation and archival management.

The programme also emphasises experiential learning through paid internships and research assistantships. Students often collaborate with regional historic societies, bridging the gap between academic theory and professional practice. Furthermore, the department offers prestigious financial awards, including scholarships valued at up to $10,000 for high-achieving upper-year students.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 21800 per year
• National fee: CAD 10800 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Old and New Nations in North America
• Alexander the Great and the Hellenistic Era
• Environmental History
• Indigenous Canada: a Historical Survey
• The Renaissance in Italy and Beyond
• Japan and the Making of Modern Asia
• History Through Film
• Archives and Research Methods
• Canadian History
• American History
• European History
• Asian History

Careers with History

Graduates of the History programme are well-prepared for a diverse range of professional sectors due to their refined analytical and research capabilities. Many alumni pursue further qualifications in specialised fields such as law or education. The degree serves as a strong foundation for roles requiring critical evaluation and clear communication.

Common career destinations for graduates include positions as policy analysts, foreign service officers, and public administrators. Others find success in the heritage sector as museum curators, archivists, or historic site managers. The programme also prepares students for roles in journalism, arts administration, and genealogical research.

The reputation of the university ensures that graduates are highly regarded by employers in both the public and private sectors. Former students have successfully transitioned into high-level legal roles, including appointments to federal courts. The broad scope of the curriculum ensures that graduates can adapt to the evolving demands of the global labour market.