History

The study of history provides you with a strong foundation to pursue a career in a wide range of fields such as law, education, business, journalism, public policy, military and museum administration. Consider the History program if you have a passion for the past and seek to develop exceptional research, writing and analytical skills for your future.

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The History program gives you an intellectual and chronological framework to develop your historical understanding as well as your skills in writing and critical thinking. You can take introductory or advanced courses in European, American, Asian, Latin American and ancient history. Whatever you choose, you will study in a comprehensive, intensive program and learn all the tools of the historian’s craft.

Study in the program will prepare you to pursue advanced degrees in law, international studies, and others. You can also participate in a five-year, dual degree program in history and social studies if you are interested in teaching at the elementary, middle school or high school level.

Highlighted Courses​

  • HIS 280 The Making of Modern Africa
  • HIS 299 Historian’s Craft (various topics)
  • HIS 309 World War One
  • HIS 397 Trust No One: Paranoia, Misinformation, and Conspiracy Theory in American History

Distinctions

The program’s History Club and the History Honors Society offer you opportunities to participate in field trips, history-themed events, seminars, internships, and regional conferences to further develop your research and writing skills.

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Recent program graduates have won Fulbright Scholarships to universities in Europe
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History professors have held Distinguished Peter Canisius Teaching Professorships

Extended Learning Opportunities

History majors gain valuable, hands-on experience in the field through internships at such places as Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site, Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park, The Colored Musician's Club in Buffalo and the Eisenhower National Historic Site at Gettysburg.
 
The History Club sponsors field trips, historically themed events and hosts on-campus lectures by noted historians. Phi Alpha Theta, the Canisius Chapter of the history honor society, presents guest speakers. Students attend the organization's regional conference and organize the annual end of year dinner.

Faculty Scholarship
In addition to winning local and national awards for both their teaching and research, the Canisius College History Department faculty hold research degrees from some of the finest institutions in the world, including the University of Chicago, University of London, University of North Carolina, University of Rochester, University of Toronto, University of Virginia, and University of Wisconsin.
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