Bachelor of Arts (Major: History)

A rigorous study of history is vital to understanding the people and events that have shaped the modern world, and here at The University of Notre Dame Australia that is exactly what we aim to do. Our Bachelor of Arts with a Major in History offers a broad perspective, which will encourage you to critically approach a range of topics including the West’s interactions with diverse non-Western cultures, to think critically about issues such as gender relations and post-colonialism and to rethink what it means to be Western in the global 21st century.

Why study this degree?

Rather than a study of long-forgotten civilisations, history is vital for our understanding of the modern world. It is only by studying our past and taking note of the various factors that inspired historical events that we can appreciate the economic, cultural and religious forces that have shaped our own society and those of many other nations.

At The University of Notre Dame Australia, we take a broad view of history, ranging from classical Greece and Rome to the Enlightenment, from ancient civlisations in Asia to the rise of American global influence. Our History Major places a strong emphasis on historiography using a range of texts, both visual and written. Special attention is paid to Australia and its Pacific context, the classical world and its impact in both the early modern and modern worlds, medieval Europe and its interaction with non-Europeans, especially Jewish and Islamic peoples.

Upon graduation, you will not only gain a powerful insight into the events and personalities on which the modern world is founded and a deep understanding of the lived experience of past peoples, but also learn important research and analytical skills which you can apply in a range of occupations and professions. By examining the complexities and conflicts of the world today, our graduates further develop as informed and compassionate world citizens.