History

History

History involves the study of the past and how we narrate and debate the past, as well as the impact of the past on the present. As one of the oldest university disciplines, history has shaped debates around the origins and genealogies of nationalism, capitalism, migration, colonialism, and other key forces that shape our world. We study history not only because of the past, but to obtain a better understanding and context for the present. History thus equips students with the tools needed for analytic thinking and critical engagement with local contexts and global connections. Potential careers include schoolteacher; museum curator; historian; heritage consultant; journalist; librarian; academic; policy analyst, among others.

Students who are interested in pursuing their Masters and Doctoral qualification in History can choose from a variety of topics. These may include, but are not limited to, the following options:

  • Social history, particularly of South Africa
  • Public history and heritage, including monuments and memorialisation.
  • Regional and local history
  • Environmental history
  • Global histories of empire and colonialism, including violence, missionaries, and resistance
  • The history of crime and punishment
  • The history of gender and sexuality, including histories of children and childhood
  • The history of emotions
  • Economic history, mining, rural history, and political economy
  • Histories of Bantustans in South Africa, and indirect rule in Africa
  • The history of war and military history

If you're interested in applying for Master's or PhD programmes at the North-West University (NWU), here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the application process:

Remember to check the specific requirements for the Master's or PhD programme you are interested in, as they may vary. It's essential to submit a well-prepared application, including a short research proposal, to increase your chances of admission to NWU.

If you have more questions, you can direct them to:

History (research programme leader) via email
Dr Claudia Gouws