Why Study History?
The past is endlessly provocative – but also endlessly entertaining and absorbing. The study of history is not just learning about things that happened years ago. History tells us how we got to today – and may help us to chart a course for tomorrow.
Understanding history is also about the imagination. To make sense of the past, we have to look at it on its own terms, rather than according to modern assumptions. Seeing the past through the eyes of those who lived it requires historical imagination – imagination that is informed by critical thinking and analytical skills. History allows us to research, to ask questions, to debate, to write – with the whole range of human experience as the backdrop.
Our graduates go on to careers in law, government, the arts, education, IT, finance – all using the skills they developed while studying history.
Why Study History at Western?
Western's History Department is one of the largest in Canada. In any given year, students can choose from over 70 undergraduate courses. Our classes allow students to engage with their peers and professors, and expand their historical knowledge. Western's History Department offers modules in History, American Studies, International Relations, and Public History.
Whether you’re interested in politics or people, empires or environments, war, love, capitalism, pirates or zombies, we have courses that will make you think.
When you sign up for a history course, be prepared to be intrigued, appalled, provoked, angered, surprised, but most of all engaged.
Student Experiences Within the History Department
"Transitioning from a small town in Northern Ontario, the Western History Department had the most welcoming environment and just felt like home."
Sophie Bourguignon
BA (Honours Specialization) History, Western University
"The Western History Department has a course for everyone to feel heard, but what's most special is the people you get to connect with."
Jayme Cox
BA, (Double Honours) History, Western University
"The care and guidance of the faculty in the History Department is unmatched and made my studies in the IR program a life changing experience."
Brendan Fox
BA (Honours Specialization) International Relations, Western University
"My favourite part of the History Department at Western were the outings that we took, both with the History Society as well as with various professors, especially in Dr. Shelley McKellar's classes. These outings were always very fun, interesting and interactive!"
Mathew Prior
BA, History, Western University
“I loved my History degree! I enjoyed how close-knit the program was, and how supportive the professors were. I learned a lot and made amazing connections along the way!”
Martina Randall
BA (Honours Specialization) History, Western University
"It has been an absolute joy and honour to have been part of the program. I have felt supported, cheered on and challenged by the department at every step of the way, in a way that brought the best out of me. Thank you all and special thanks to the amazing Dr. Mitchell Hammond."
Madeleine Standage
BA (Honours Specialization) History, Western University
"History has been much more than courses and essays, it has been the friends, professors and community met along the way."
Ava Stocco
BA (Honours Specialization) History, Western University
"I loved the support and community offered by Western's History Department. Every professor and T.A were always willing to lend a listening ear and provide wisdom when I needed it."
Thomas Vukovic
BA (Honours Specialization) History, Western University
