The Honours BSocSc in History and Political Science at the University of Ottawa offers you a comprehensive exploration of the forces that shape societies, past and present. You will delve into the complexities of historical change, learning to interpret diverse evidence and understand the impact of human decisions across millennia. Simultaneously, you will critically analyze the principles, power relations, and institutions that govern social life, examining everything from local governance to global politics. This undergraduate program is ideal for students eager to develop analytical rigor and a deep understanding of the historical and political contexts that influence our world.
This full-time, on-campus degree is structured over four years, guiding you through foundational skills in essay writing and core historical and political science concepts. You will engage with compulsory courses in The Historian's Craft and various subfields of political science, including political thought, Canadian politics, comparative politics, and international relations. The program allows for significant specialization through optional courses and seminars, culminating in a research-intensive honours thesis. You will graduate with advanced research, critical thinking, and analytical skills, prepared for further academic study or careers in public policy, international affairs, journalism, and public service.