AU’s History major is designed to not just teach you dates and events, but to equip you with the critical thinking skills needed to make sense of the present
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The social changes of our era are part of a longer, more complex process; the study of history puts current issues and events into context. The history program at Athabasca University will help you:
see contemporary events in broader historical contexts
explain changing social attitudes as the result of specific contexts and events
recognize the ways knowledge is socially constructed and sanctioned
interpret historical evidence, assessing for possible bias
AU offers a wide variety of history courses, with strengths in Europe and North America, and a growing number of courses on global history and the history of Africa. You'll gain perspectives that allow you to see current happenings in a broader historical frame, understand shifts in social attitudes as products of their times, and identify how knowledge itself is shaped by society. It's not just about learning history, it's about understanding how the threads of the past weave into the fabric of now.
Admission requirements
There are no formal admission requirements for either the 3-year or the 4-year program. All you need is to be 16 or older. You can enrol anytime and start right away, regardless of your previous education.
Program details
Overview
The Bachelor of Arts strengthens critical and creative thinking through a broad range of social, political, and cultural studies. The program is designed to:
broaden your perspective on local and global affairs
encourage community and social involvement
prepare you for lifelong learning and occupational diversity
Routes and options
The Bachelor of Arts, History Major is an online degree program, with both a 3-year and a 4-year option. There are no set start dates – you can enrol at any time and register for courses right away.
Bachelor of Arts, History Concentration (3-year online degree)
A 3-year degree is a well-respected and marketable credential in Canada and the United States.
It does not provide direct access to graduate-level studies.
Bachelor of Arts, History Major (4-year online degree)
A 4-year degree fully prepares students for most graduate programs.
The 4-year BA program allows you to pursue either a double major or a minor.
Double majors must meet the requirements for both majors, which may restrict course selection or require additional credits above the 120 required for the BA.
You should talk to an academic advisor about your program and courses if you’re considering a double major.
To earn a minor you must complete 30 credits in that subject area.
Finish the concentration option in 3 years of full-time study, the major option in 4 years, or work at your own pace and take as long as you need. There is no time limit for completion. The program may be completed faster if transfer credit is applied toward your degree.
How to apply
You can apply to AU online, anytime. Once you’ve completed the online application form and paid the one-time general application fee (and transfer credit evaluation fee, if applicable), you’re officially an AU student and can start registering in courses.
If you have previous post-secondary education or significant life and work experience that relates to this program, you may be eligible for transfer credit or Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR). This could mean fewer courses to get your AU degree.
If you transfer credit, you must complete a minimum of 30 credits at AU.
Once you have paid the initial application fee, tuition is pay-as-you-go for each course registration. Course fees vary depending on your location and other factors.
Estimated program costs are available in the Calendar.
Financial aid and awards
We're dedicated to supporting your academic goals and committed to helping you overcome financial barriers by providing many funding and award options.
Our carefully designed program offers a wide range of courses, covering everything from Canadian and European history to global perspectives, all while meeting rigorous academic standards for both junior and senior-level credits.
To complete the program you will need to fulfill all the general requirements of the Bachelor of Arts, plus those specific to your major, minor or concentration.
Our program course plans can give you an idea of what courses you need to finish this program, and how to plan the order you’ll take them in. If you’re feeling stuck, our academic advisors can help.
Below are some of the courses that our students take in this program. Please consult an advisor to confirm any course planning, as some of these courses may not apply to you.
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Focus areas
Career options
Unlock diverse career paths with a BA in History from AU. From research and education to roles in government, museums, and cultural organizations, your understanding of historical contexts can be a valuable asset in various professional fields.
Some careers could include:
historic interpreter
national/provincial park interpreter
Parks Canada service supervisor
historic researcher
records manager
museum technician/assistant
museum interpreter volunteer coordinator
heritage assistant
preservation/restoration assistant
immigration officer
foreign service officer
events coordinator
writer
archival assistant
lobbyist
collections manager
Resources and links
Additional information that you need to know about AU and this program.