hagey hall building

Welcome to History

History at the University of Waterloo offers recognized excellence in research and in teaching. Diverse learning experiences emphasize innovative thematic approaches, as captured in our undergraduate specializations.

Through courses, as well as Co-operative education, international experiences, and experiential learning opportunities, our graduates possess a unique set of technical, creative, critical, and analytical skills of value to diverse career pathways.

Our graduate program is part of the Tri-University partnership, one of the largest History graduate programs in Canada. We offer both Masters and Doctoral programs with numerous research opportunities.

We invite you to explore our website and learn more about our dynamic department! 

Walking path on UWaterloo campus

Undergraduate

Curious about studying history? Explore our undergraduate program that offers history courses that not only enrich your knowledge but prepare you for future careers in the field.

Dana porter library

Graduate

Fascinated with history? Learn more about our graduate program and contact our team to walk you through the application process and answer any questions you may have.

students walking near Dana Porter library

Alumni

We want to hear from you! Share your alumni experience with us and how our programs helped you become passionate for history in your current career.

News

The Canadian Historical Association's recent webinar, “Generative AI and the Practice of History,” hosted two Tri-U professors as speakers (Ian Milligan from the University of Waterloo and Mark Humphries from Wilfrid Laurier University) for exploring tools and tips for using generative artificial intelligence in the historical profession on February 27, 2026.

Deyohahá:ge Indigenous Knowledge Centre at Six Nations Polytechnic has launched a new research partnership with the University of Waterloo to strengthen Hodinohsó:ni archival research, improve access to cultural heritage materials, and support rematriation efforts grounded in community priorities.

Supported through a Partnership Engage Grant, this collaboration brings together community leadership and academic research expertise to identify, document, and build ethical pathways to access Hodinohsó:ni materials held in museum and archival collections internationally. The initiative is guided by principles of respect, relationship-building, and community-driven knowledge stewardship.