Future Students

Modern History

The Area of Study

Modern History is an enquiry into past human experiences. It is an enquiry in which we seek to learn not only what happened, but to consider the motives, causes, patterns and consequences. Historical study involves distinct skills in examining primary sources, in reading, in evaluating evidence, and in argument.

Historical study helps the development of our understanding of individuals and the society in which we live. Studying history provides important lessons on the variety as well as the similarity of human experiences, of change as well as of continuity in societies, and of origins as well as of present situations and problems.

At Macquarie University introductory history units are designed to give students substantial choice. These vary widely in theme, geographical area and period. All aim to provide a basic understanding of the problem and possibilities of historical investigation. One of the main objectives is to let you work in areas which you personally find stimulating and challenging and to prepare you for more advanced work in history.

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Degree Program Information

Degree UAI 2008 CSP Course Duration
Bachelor of Arts 76.00 3 years full-time/equivalent part-time
Bachelor of Arts with Diploma of Education 75.00 4 years full-time/equivalent part-time
Bachelor of Arts with Bachelor of Laws 95.45 5 years full-time
Bachelor of Social Science 76.10 3 years full-time/equivalent part-time
Bachelor of Social Science with Bachelor of Laws 96.35 5 years full-time

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What You Will Study

You must complete a program of study (major) in one of the following:

  • Modern History
  • Australian History
  • World History

Your program of study may include units from the subject areas listed below:

  • Australian history and Australian studies
  • Aboriginal history
  • European history
  • gender and feminist history
  • modern historiography
  • global and world history
  • empire and postcolonial history

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Recommended Prior Knowledge

First-year modern history units do not require any assumed knowledge, prerequisites or recommended studies. Other units taken as part of a degree may require assumed knowledge, prerequisites or recommended studies and you should refer to the Macquarie University Handbook of Undergraduate Studies for full degree requirements.

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Career Options

  • teaching and education (with Diploma of Education)
  • consulting work
  • journalism
  • travel and tourism
  • heritage and cultural agencies
  • research work
  • diplomatic service
  • administration
  • museum curating
  • librarianship
  • archival work
  • film and media

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Further Information

Department of Modern History
Macquarie University, NSW, 2109
Telephone: (02) 9850 8879
Fax: (02) 9850 6594
Email: modernhistory@mq.edu.au
Web: www.modhist.mq.edu.au

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