History

Intake(s):
Fall, Winter, Spring/Summer
Available as:
Honours Specialization, Specialization, Major, Minor
Available to:

 All Students

Degree type:
Bachelor of Arts

**

Course load:
Full-time, Part-time
Dual Degree Option
PGWP Eligible

Uncover the Past. Understand the Present. Shape the Future.

The History program at Nipissing University is your gateway to exploring the stories, events, movements that have shaped our world. Whether you’re fascinated by ancient civilizations, political revolutions, Indigenous histories, or global conflicts, this program provides a comprehensive and dynamic approach to understanding the past and its influence on today’s society. 

With a focus on critical thinking, research, and analysis, you’ll gain the skills to evaluate evidence, construct persuasive arguments, and write compelling narratives—all of which are highly valued in today’s job market. 

Program Highlights

Whether you’re uncovering archival materials, collaborating on research projects, or presenting your findings, you’ll gain practical experience that prepares you for a wide range of future opportunities. In this program, you’ll:

  • Develop Strong Research & Writing Skills: Learn to evaluate sources, construct compelling arguments, and communicate complex ideas effectively.
  • Engage with Archival & Primary Sources: Learn how to interpret historical documents, photographs, and oral histories to uncover deeper insights.
  • Apply Historical Knowledge to Today’s Challenges: Discover how historical analysis informs current debates in politics, human rights, and global relations.
  • Build Relationships with Faculty: Learn in a supportive environment where professors are approachable mentors, offering personalized guidance, research opportunities, and valuable insights to help you achieve your academic and professional goals.
  • Participate in Travel Courses: Experience history firsthand through travel-based learning opportunities that connect classroom concepts to real-world places, cultures, and historical landmarks.

Orientation to a Master of Arts in History (OMAH)

Earn your BA and secure a pathway to to the Master of Arts in History

A unique five-year program with experiential learning, small class sizes, and personalized faculty support.

To be guaranteed admission into the Master of Arts in History from OMAH, students will need:

  • Apply for admission into OMAH from high school with a minimum of 80% average.
  • After being admitted to OMAH, maintain a minimum of 75% average in the final 10 full (6 credits) courses & complete 2 experiential learning courses HIST 3906 and HIST 3907

Admission to Orientation to a Master of Arts in History (OMAH)

For more detail admission details into the OMAH program:

  • Select the student type that applies to you in the Admission Requirements page
  • Select the History program to see the requirements for OMAH. 
Check Admission Requirements

Why Nipissing's History Program?

Expert Faculty, Research and Learning Opportunities

Be part of an exciting history community: Whether through the History Society’s social events, gaming with our Serious Play initiative, attending one of our public lectures, or using the student resources in our Centre for the Study of State Violence, join a community of historians who are as engaged with the past as you are.

Small Class Sizes

Our classes blend lecture and seminar components to help you hone your historical analysis skills, critically engage with course material, and develop and share your own ideas with your peers.

Engaged Community and Experiential Learning

Gain valuable hands-on experience conducting traditional and digital archival research through projects with archives, museums, and digital history initiatives.

4 students with hands over shoulders with the library building in the background

Admission Requirements

To qualify for admission, students must meet the General Admission Requirements, plus program specific prerequisites.

General Admission Requirements include:

Ontario Secondary School Diploma including six 4U/4M courses

Future Careers

A History degree from Nipissing University develops strong research, writing, and analytical skills that prepare graduates for careers across education, culture, public service, and communications. Graduates may pursue roles in the list below with further accreditations and certificates:

Education & Academia
Teachers, professors (with a graduate degree), researchers, or academic writers.

Heritage & Cultural Sector
Museum curators, archivists, heritage consultants, public historians, or historical site interpreters.

Public Policy & Civil Service
Policy analysts, government researchers, or legislative assistants.

Law 
Lawyers, Paralegal

Media & Communications
Journalists, editors, content creators, publishers, or communications specialists.

Non-Profit & Community Engagement
Program coordinators, advocacy officers, cultural organization staff, or community engagement coordinators.

Real People, Real Impact

Discover how real students have found support, opportunity, and belonging at Nipissing.
A woman wearing black sunglasses and jacket standing outside in the snow in front of a building

The History program at NU changed my whole perspective on learning about history. I got the opportunity to do a travel course and the experiential learning aspect is something I will never forget and added so much value to my education outside of the classroom.

Taylor W.

Class of 2022

3 students talking in the student centre in the winter

I loved learning in a tight-knit, supportive environment between students and educators. The classes were engaging and helped prepare me for future learning and career aspirations.

Max S.

Class of 2023 (Honours Bachelor of Physical and Health Education, Minor in History)

Program Requirements

How the Common Degree Structure Works

At Nipissing, you can choose a minor, major, specialization, or honours specialization—each offering a different level of focus and flexibility to match your goals.

Check out this breakdown of the Common Degree Structure to see how you can make your interests fit your degree.

Program Options & Course Requirements

Find required courses for each type of specialization using this link. 

Request More Info

Learn more about our Office of Indigenous Initiatives?

Explore
Other Programs

A Nipissing student talking to a mom in red holding her baby with the dad in front with their other child
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts
A classroom full of students looking at their monitor with the professor at the front
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science

Notes:

Honours Specialization with an Orientation to a Master of Arts in History also available

Disclaimer:
While every effort is made to ensure accuracy on this site, in the event of a discrepancy, Nipissing’s Academic Calendar is the official reference.