History

By delving into how political structures, social institutions, and cultural practices have evolved, students gain the perspective needed to address the pressing issues of today and tomorrow. The History major is more than a record of the past; it is a toolkit for the future—a way to develop the intellectual flexibility, analytical skills, and moral sensibility required for meaningful participation in a democratic society.

You’ll build a "mental map" that stretches across time, enabling you to see your place in the complex world. This map allows you to draw connections between past and present, to question taken-for-granted assumptions, and to understand the forces that have shaped modern society. In doing so, you’ll learn about history, but you’ll also learn how to think historically.

3 reasons to study History at Murdoch

1. Our History major equips you to show initiative, manage projects, carry out rigorous research, and, perhaps most importantly, make a tangible difference in the world by applying historical perspectives to contemporary challenges.

2. You’ll benefit from the guidance and insights of our leading academic experts who will empower you to think critically about how decisions from the past continue to inform and influence the future. Through great mentorship, you will be inspired to engage deeply with historical questions and to consider their global implications.

3. We recognise the value of interdisciplinary education. You can study two majors within three years, graduating with two areas of expertise that increase your employability and intellectual breadth. Alternatively, your major can be paired with minors such as Sociology or Indigenous Knowledges and Practices, further enhancing your career prospects and cultural awareness. This flexibility allows you to shape your academic journey according to your interests and aspirations.

What you'll Learn

The History major at Murdoch is both rigorous and flexible, providing a strong foundation in historical knowledge while allowing you to pursue your interests through elective units.

• Core units equip you with the essential tools of historical inquiry. You will learn to conduct self-directed research projects using a variety of secondary and primary sources.
• You’ll learn to interpret historical sources, scholarship, and the evolving representations of the past; gather and assess evidence; and make persuasive, well-supported arguments. These are skills that are highly transferable to many professional contexts.
• Your choice of elective units allows for the exploration of niche topics and regional histories, deepening expertise and cultural understanding.
• This combination of core and elective units fosters critical thinking, and research and communication expertise. These abilities are essential to navigating and making sense of the modern world.

Your future career

Graduates with a History major possess skills that open doors in both the public and private sectors because of their ability to analyse complex information, communicate clearly, and see the bigger picture. The intellectual rigour and versatility gained from historical study are prized in a wide array of professions, including but not limited to:

• Historian – pursuing academic research or public history projects.
• Intelligence Analyst – interpreting patterns and assessing risks for government or private organisations.
• Diplomat – representing national interests and building international relationships.
• Policy Advisor – crafting informed and effective policies for governments, NGOs, or think tanks.
• Research Officer – conducting in-depth analysis and supporting evidence-based decision making.
• Museum Curator – preserving and interpreting material culture for public education.
• Documentary Researcher – assembling historical narratives for media, film, and television.
• Heritage Consultant – advising on the preservation and presentation of historical sites.
• Information Manager/Archivist – ensuring the organisation and accessibility of historical records.