History (BA)

Trace the people, events, and ideas that have shaped our reality, in Wilfrid Laurier University's Bachelor of Arts (BA) in History at the Brantford campus. This program is ideal for students who want to understand how today's social, political and cultural challenges are grounded in historical events.

You’ll learn how historical artifacts are collected, preserved and displayed, and earn certification in oral history interviewing to record stories of your ancestors and local community members. Through hands-on learning in research, critical thinking, communication and storytelling, you'll build skills for careers in education, museums, archives, heritage organizations, and public history.

pile of old photographs on a table

Program Details

Discover what makes this Laurier program unique and how you’ll gain real-world experience.

Why Should I Choose History?

Your future professors work hard to make sure your academic experience is current, complete and designed to open doors in your career. Here are a few things you can count on:

  • Career-Ready Curriculum
    Develop strong analytical skills and learn how to discover and analyze historical records and objects in archives, libraries and private collections.
  • Community Involvement
    Go behind the scenes of local museums and historic sites in Brantford, Brant County, Six Nations of the Grand River, Hamilton and Toronto to learn how historic artefacts and documents are collected, preserved and displayed.
  • Conquer Practical Skills
    Delve into essays, podcasts, local and digital exhibits, theatre and film, blogs, conference presentations and reports.
  • Certification Opportunities
    Get certified to collect oral history interviews and tell the stories of your ancestors and local community members.
  • Pathway to Teaching
    Looking ahead to a career in education? Apply to the History with Teaching Minor program for a direct pathway into Laurier's Bachelor of Education.

How Will I Gain Real-World Experience?

Here are just a few of our students’ favourite ways to apply their learning in the real world throughout their degree (check out the Experience Guide for even more!):

  • Field Placement
    As part of the course HI323: Memory, Monuments, and Museums you'll participate in a placement with a local heritage organization. You'll work alongside professionals and volunteers in the heritage community and develop public history skills and networks.
  • Hands-On Learning
    Participate in the bi-annual People Make History lecture series, which brings the participant of a major historic event to campus to share their story. Meet with the speaker in small groups and learn from their experiences.
  • Events and Experiences
    Become a leader by joining the Brantford Campus History Students' Association (HSA) and help organize events and mentor incoming students.
  • Study Abroad
    Earn your Bachelor of Arts (BA) in History from Wilfrid Laurier University and Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from the University of Sussex (United Kingdom) in only six years through our new pathway.

Courses and Program Enhancements

Explore a sample weekly schedule to see what your day-to-day might look like in this program.

What Courses Will I Take?

Get a glimpse of what you will study throughout your degree. See what your first-year classes will look like through sample courses and start exploring what your upper academic years can offer.

How Can I Enhance My Degree?

Explore a variety of courses, specializations and pathway options that let you shape your degree around your unique interests and goals. Find out how you can customize your experience and prepare for what’s next.

Admissions

  • Format: full time or part time
  • Duration: four years
  • Start: September (fall term), January (winter term) or May (spring term)

Career Options

It's not only about the journey; it's about the destination. Let us help you get to where you're going.

What Jobs Can I Get After Graduation?

Our History (BA) graduates go on to a wide range of rewarding careers. Here are just a few examples:

  • advertising and promotions manager
  • archaeologist
  • communications specialist
  • curator
  • immigration officer
  • journalist
  • lawyer
  • management consultant
  • political aide
  • project manager
  • social policy researcher
  • teacher

Note: Additional training and education may be required.

Explore more careers.

Will I Be Supported After Graduation?

As a Laurier alum, you'll have access to Career and Employment Support offered at Laurier for your entire career.

Tuition and Costs

What are the Tuition Fees and Costs for Liberal Arts at Laurier?

Below is a breakdown of tuition fees and expenses for Laurier Liberal Arts students for one year (or two terms) studying full time. Fees are based on 2026/27 rates and are subject to increase. All fees are shown in Canadian dollars.

Tuition Fees for Liberal Arts Students
Fee Type Domestic Students International Students
Tuition $7,222 $36,624
Student Fees $1,830 $2,778
Textbook Fees $1,500 $1,500

See a full breakdown of your first-year expenses.

Scholarships and Bursaries

When you apply to Laurier you’ll be automatically assessed for entrance scholarships (based on your final admission average) and for in-course scholarships in your upper years (based on your Laurier GPA from the previous academic year). We also offer more than 700 competitive scholarships and awards, which require separate applications and may be awarded throughout the academic year.

Additional Financial Support

  • Get information and advice on eligibility for government assistance (like OSAP) from our Financial Aid office.
  • Apply for bursaries to receive additional support based on financial need and academic performance.
  • Learn money management skills through courses, workshops and financial coaching.
  • Visit the Career Centre for support finding part-time job opportunities.

 

Laurier graduates employed or in post‑graduate studies in 2025

 

Laurier students engaged in hands‑on learning in 2025/26

 

Laurier is among the top 7 percent in the Center for World University Rankings 2026

Brantford Campus

The Brantford campus blends small-city charm with big opportunities. It’s home to more than 2,400 students learning in modern classrooms inside beautifully restored buildings, with access to recreation at the Laurier Brantford YMCA and one-stop student services within One Market. With affordable living options, 20+ programs to choose from, great walking and biking trails and a welcoming community, Laurier Brantford is the ideal place to live and learn.

There are many ways to tour our Brantford campus, whether that's on a guided tour with one of our Laurier student ambassadors, on your own using virtual reality, or even on-demand through one of our pre-recorded tours. See our campus spaces and start to picture yourself at Laurier.

students in a classroom

How Will I Learn in This Program?

This is primarily an in-person program, meaning you'll attend classes on campus and learn face-to-face with professors and classmates. When you register for courses, you'll be able to select from available sections and create your timetable. 
 
In-person delivery gives you direct access to faculty, hands-on learning opportunities and a traditional university student experience.

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Get in Touch

Have questions? Email chooselaurier@wlu.ca, call 548‑889‑8888 or see all contact information.


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Think this program might be the perfect fit for you and your future?