History at Ryerson
Learn about the past and influence
the future.
Welcome to Ryerson's Department of History! Our fast-growing department offers distinctive courses and supports innovative research. Our new career-focused BA in History connects the city to the classroom through internships and experiential learning. Our students explore the historical roots of contemporary issues through courses in fields such as ancient and modern urban environments, international relations, histories of science, medicine and technology, and heritage management.
Our Programs
We are surrounded by history – in our customs and cultures, national boundaries and regional identities, laws and institutions. Historians help us recall, analyze, and interpret the past and explore the ongoing significance of historical events in the contemporary world. Armed with a strong understanding of the ways history has been used and abused, you can both participate fully in today’s world and make informed decisions that will influence the future. As George Orwell observed in his novel Nineteen Eighty-Four, ‘Who controls the past controls the future: who controls the present controls the past.’
A degree in History will help you develop skills that are highly valued by employers, including critical thinking and the ability to analyze, synthesize, and communicate diverse and complex information. To help you succeed in today’s job market, our BA also includes distinctive options such as heritage management courses and experiential learning opportunities that can open doors to careers in museums, archives, and cultural agencies. With a BA in History from Ryerson, you will not only learn about the past, but also be prepared to shape the future!
For high school counsellors:
We would be pleased to talk to your students about studying History at Ryerson. Please contact us to plan a visit or to arrange a tour or lecture that matches your needs.