History (BA)
Why study History?
History shapes the world we inhabit; it substantially determines the constraints and the possibilities of our experience; it colours the aspirations and aversions that drive us, individually and collectively. We can choose to live in ignorance of history, but we cannot live independently of it. History, in other words, is a burden we all share, but for some of us it is also a resource. It imposes limits but also supplies opportunities.
History is more than mere facts; it is a dynamic discipline built on analysis, debate and interpretation. When you study history, you develop a cultural vocabulary that examines humanity through events, culture and context. Our modern multimedia facilities bring history to life through images, texts, and sound recordings. Our faculty specialize in areas that reflect the world’s diversity. Whether your heart lies in modern Africa, medieval England or contemporary Japan, you will have the opportunity to study the historical periods and geographical locations that capture your attention. Complement your studies with thematic courses such as film in history, gender, the history of peace and war or environmental history.
Program structure
A Bachelor of Arts degree takes a minimum of three or four years (90 – 120 credits) of full-time study, depending on your academic background.
Program options
- Honours in History - Essay Option (60 credits)
- Honours in History - Seminar Option (60 credits)
- Honours in History - Public History (60 credits)
- Specialization in History (60 credits)
- Major in History (42 credits)
- Minor in History (24 credits)
- Joint Specialization in English and History (30 credits in English, 30 credits in History)
- Minor in Law and Society (24 credits)
Courses
Admission criteria
Minimum cut-off averages and course requirements
- Quebec Cegep: 20 (Honours: 28)
- High School: C+ (Honours: B+)
- ACT or SAT is NOT required
- Canadian curricula course requirements
- Accepted international qualifications
- University Transfers (internal/external): C (Honours: B+)
- Baccalauréat français: 11 (Honours: 14)
- International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma: 26 (Honours: 31)
Honours programs: Students applying directly to an honours program should list it as their first choice. If not admitted to honours, they will automatically be considered for the next highest program (i.e. specialization or major).
Minimum cut-off averages should be used as indicators. The cut-off data may change depending on the applicant pool. Applicants who meet the stated minimum requirements are not guaranteed admission to these programs.
Other programs of interest
- Specialization

Take on the narrative of the human story, through analysis and the re-interpretation of historical events.
Department
Faculty
- Major
- Minor

Delving into the Irish experience will anchor and expand your understanding of the issues facing our planet today. The people of Ireland have a history that includes colonisation, famine, diaspora, civil war, partition, and the Troubles.
Department
Faculty
- Major
- Minor
- Honours

A liberal arts education equips you for life. The Liberal Arts program teaches you to think critically, enhance your communication skills and become a more resourceful, innovative and self-confident person.
Department
Faculty
- Major
- Minor
- Honours

Philosophers reflect on some of the world’s most serious problems: the basis of ethical action, human rights, global justice or our relationship with the environment.
Department
Faculty