温哥华岛大学

The study of History is a vital component in the creation of an innovative, humane, prosperous and free civic society in which individuals can participate as active, informed citizens. Throughout their studies, History students read primary and secondary texts designed to impart knowledge and critical understanding of their areas of study, and which expose them to different methodologies, approaches and historical perspectives. Students also explore historical context and different interpretations of texts, thereby further honing their critical thinking skills. Much more than just a dialogue with the past, the study of History enables students to better engage with the present and to prepare for the future.

The History department offers undergraduate course work at two levels: 100/200 (foundational/introductory) and 300/400 (advanced thematic studies). Courses numbered in the 300s and the 400s may be taken for either third or fourth year credit. Students should generally complete 100/200-level courses before undertaking advanced courses in the same area.

Why Study History?

In today’s technology-driven culture, ideas or items from earlier generations are often dismissed or denigrated, yet knowledge and understanding of the past remains as crucial as ever. As a wise First Nations elder recently put it, “We may think we’re through with the past, but is the past through with us?” The answer, of course, is an emphatic no! We can have no real understanding of an individual, family, neighbourhood, or nation if we know nothing of their respective pasts. Without historical context, we live in perpetual ignorance, and the consequences of that are rarely positive.

With that in mind, students of history have an important and exciting task as they attempt to document the complexities of human existence. It is, in some respects, a daunting challenge, but, from ancient times, there have always been those who worked to preserve the ‘stories’ of their people. Those who study and write history are part of that legacy; and, while the human story is vast and complex, the immensity of the subject also creates opportunities. Today, more than ever, historians, both professional and amateur, are examining the human condition from an ever-growing variety of alternative perspectives. Each sheds new light on who we are as a people, generates debate and disagreement, and keeps History an interactive and ever-evolving discipline. Come share your perspective!

The Honours History program allows students to further enrich their understanding and practice of History. This is accomplished primarily through their participation in two specialized Honours courses. The first, History 490 (Honours Historiography and Research Methods), provides students with an in-depth examination of the diversity of theoretical approaches and research strategies employed by past and present historians. This course also sees students read a significant number of historical works designed to provide them with valuable context in preparation for the second specialized course: History 491 (Honours Thesis). Working under the direction of an agreed upon faculty supervisor, History 491 gives students the opportunity to undertake a level of research, and produce writing, that will anticipate standards at the Masters level. Honours History graduates will thus leave VIU with a skill set and a depth of knowledge that will prepare them well for graduate study and/or professional situations in the field.