Undergraduate

Why study History?

A community without a sense of its own past is like a person suffering from amnesia. Without a sense of history, we cannot understand where our world has come from nor can we understand where it might be going. With the rapid pace at which the world is changing, it is even more important that we have a good sense of how we got to where we are.

At a more practical level, the study of history also teaches us some important skills: to examine a problem or question critically, to consider it analytically, to draw an informed conclusion based upon that analysis, and to effectively communicate that analysis and conclusion. It is these skills - critical thinking, analysis and effective communication - which employers are increasingly seeking.

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Why study History at UWaterloo?

  1. Our faculty members are dedicated to teaching excellence.
  2. Students in our department have the opportunity to participate in the University of Waterloo's world renowned co-operative education program, providing them the opportunity to build their resume by getting exposure to the workforce all while earning a degree. 
  3. We are always adding new courses to our roster, in order to provide our students a fresh perspective on a variety of historical themes.
  4. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in the department's History Society, which is an excellent opportunity to network and socialize with fellow students of History.

What are my career options with a History degree?

Beyond the common professions for history majors such as teaching, law, museums, and archives, history students have established careers in a variety of other areas of employment.   

Our courses are designed to appeal to student interests, while providing the rigour to develop skills for the workforce or further education. 

Check out our Historians in the Workplace page to see where a History degree can take you.

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