Aims
(a) to encourage students to find an interest and enjoyment in the study of History and appreciate its importance for understanding themselves and the society in which they live.
(b) to help students towards a knowledge and understanding of some of the major national and international developments from the earliest times and, in the process, enhance their understanding of the contemporary world.
(c) to introduce students to some of the key ideas, concepts and skills involved in the study of History including those required for the S.C.E. exams. The Importance of History
History is about human beings and their societies and how they have changed through time. It helps us to understand our own identity and heritage and those of others. The study of history stimulates the imagination as well as the mind, and develops enquiring and questioning attitudes which are essential for democracy. History and Careers
The courses on offer develop important skills of critical thinking, evaluation, analysis and debate, including the ability to sustain logical and coherent arguments on a wide variety of issues. Such skills are extremely relevant for many careers including law, journalism, radio/TV, civil service, teaching, politics, the police, scientific careers and many others. A more detailed leaflet on History and Careers is available from the department.