History


History fosters knowledge and understanding of the institutions, ideas, groups, and individuals which have shaped the political, social, and cultural world of humankind.

Overview

History fosters knowledge and understanding of the institutions, ideas, groups, and individuals which have shaped the political, social, and cultural world of humankind.

History helps us understand the individuals, groups, ideas, and institutions that have shaped our world. It encourages critical analysis and helps develop your communication and writing skills.

At a Glance

Degree options
Bachelor of Arts (BA), major or honours
Minor

Curriculum

At Mount Allison, History offers courses in a rich variety of both subject matter and interpretive approach through individualized programs.

Courses are regularly available at all levels in most major periods of Canadian, American, European, and Asian history.

Students will study the human experience in all its rich diversity by examining subjects like:

  • class and gender
  • wealth and poverty
  • faith and science
  • self and social identity
  • government and politics
  • war and peace

Unlike many programs, which begin with introductory courses, history offers courses on a diverse range of topics beginning in first year.

The number and variety of courses available increases each year, with the greatest selection in third year.

In fourth year there are also opportunities for independent studies, which permit you to pursue an interest in an area not covered by other courses.

History is available as:

  • BA major (60 credits)
  • BA honours (72 credits)
  • Minor in any degree (24 credits)

Not sure about the difference between a major, a minor, an honours, and a certificate?

 

The American Experience After 1865 history class

Related programs:

Careers

Whether you're entering the job market or continuing your education, your Mount Allison degree will stand out.

Mount Allison has been recognized by Maclean's as the top primarily undergraduate university in Canada more times than any other university.

With experiential learning and career development opportunities available in every degree, you'll also graduate with hands-on learning and real-world experience.

The skills and rigor which the study of history imparts make it an excellent preparation for many career paths. More than this, with its breadth and depth, it contributes to responsible global citizenship in a free and humane world.

Popular career paths for History graduates include:

  • policy analyst
  • public administrator
  • archivist/librarian
  • foreign service officer
  • museum curator
  • historic site information officer/site manager
  • teacher/professor
  • lawyer
  • journalist
  • conservation/restoration technician
  • genealogical researcher
  • arts administrator

Alumni Spotlight

The Honourable Justice David G. Near ('76)
Bachelor of Arts, History
Judge, The Federal Court of Appeal

» The paths of three Allisonians converge at Canada's Federal Court of Appeal

Testimonials

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The Mount Allison History department is full of caring professors who know the perfect balance of looking out for and challenging their students, and any of whom would happily give up their free time and energy to make for their students the best possible experience. The wide variety of courses and subject areas provides a solid foundation for those who seek to continue history study after MtA, and the honours and independent study options allow the development of research skills that served me well even in the most challenging post-graduate research environments.


Colin
Robertson
'18
Honours History, minor in Classics (Rhodes Scholar)
Sackville, NB
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There is no better place to study history than an institution that is built upon its own stories that have been passed down throughout generations. History is not only being taught in the classrooms at Mount Allison, it is also being made with each student that passes through its campus.


Alexa
Mutch
'19
English and History, minor in Classics
Miramichi, NB

Extras

Experiential learning

History students at Mount Allison have many opportunities to extend their learning outside the classroom, including as research assistants and teaching assistants, as well as through paid internships and summer work with historic societies in the region.

Mount Allison Archives

The Mount Allison University Archives, located on the top floor of the library, is responsible for preserving records created by the University dating back to 1839 and making them accessible to the public.

Records include paper documents and photographs, artifacts, electronic records, maps, and films.

Virtual exhibit on the history of Acadians at Mount Allison University, completed by English and History alumna Renée Belliveau ('17) while working as an archival intern in the University Archives

/current-students/department-history

Bachelor of Arts

Admission Requirements

Our admissions decisions are based on your academic record, leadership skills, a high level of commitment, and the potential for personal growth. The drop down menus below will help you find information on what pre-requisites are recommended for a Bachelor of Arts.

Academic Awards

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Mount A is #2 in student awards


Maclean’s ranks Mount Allison second in student and faculty awards in its latest University Rankings. To date, 56 Mount Allison students have become Rhodes Scholars — one of the best per capita records in Canada.

Next Steps

Be part of Canada's best undergraduate university