History Program

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A student reads through old documents in the library

Why study History?

The historian’s task is to make sense of the past. History helps us to understand who and what we are, where we came from and where we are heading. This involves more than just accumulating names, dates and information. It requires understanding how people are shaped by their pasts, the logic of their desires, beliefs and actions and how they in turn influence their societies and broader patterns of change.

In an electronic age, the ability to carry out research, evaluate evidence, think creatively, write clearly and argue effectively is more essential than ever. Develop and hone these skills as a student of History.


The Saint Mary’s approach

The core research, communication, organization and critical thinking skills you will build as a History student have value far beyond a university degree. We offer a wide range of courses on Canada, the USA, East Asia, Europe, Britain and Latin American. We keep our class sizes small so that professors can get to know you and help to develop your knowledge and unique strengths.


Learning beyond the classroom

Saint Mary’s History students have participated in international exchanges in China, Germany and Japan; completed volunteer work placements for university credit; were accepted to law schools, education programs and graduate programs; and created the student-run History Society. 

Sample courses offered:

  • History of Media and Communications in Europe: In this course on the long history of communications and the media, students will cover topics such as the making of medieval manuscripts, the printing revolution, censorship, the rise of the newspaper, the creation of public libraries, the inventions of photography, the telegraph, telephone and television, and the shift to digital formats, the world wide web, internet and social media.
  • Museum Studies: You will be introduced to and given an overview of the world of museums and museum studies. Students learn about the history of museums, the constantly evolving purpose of such institutions, particularly during the twentieth century and in the contemporary world, their role in public education, archival and collections management, exhibitions, funding models, governance, and current debates in the field. This course combines seminars and site visits to museums in Nova Scotia.
  • Environmental History of North America: Explore the environmental history of North America by examining the historical relationship between humans and the rest of the natural world in a transnational setting. Students consider various meanings and perceptions of nature over time, assess human use of nature, conflicts around resource use and sustainability, and public engagement.

Career opportunities:

  • Professors and teachers
  • Researchers
  • Museum Curator
  • Cultural Resource Manager
  • Documentary filmmakers
  • Journalists
  • Lawyers