Department of History, Latin, & Political Science History
The knowledge of our past is critical to our sense of identity as a community. The study of history makes us aware of different values and perspectives and teaches us sensitivity to other viewpoints. College-level history is not simply a listing of facts and dates, rather it is an explanation of real lives lived in the past. Without an understanding of where we have been, how can we know where we are headed?
While students can choose from a wide range of history courses, they will develop a common core of essential skills. Students will learn to read with understanding so they can critically evaluate conflicting evidence. In an increasingly complex world it is imperative that students/citizens know how to evaluate data, to understand the importance of context in shaping events and attitudes, and to think and reason in a logical manner. Through regular written assignments and discussion students will refine their communication skills as they learn about other worlds.
Careers in History
The study of history gives us a sense of the richness and diversity of past cultures and societies. As an academic discipline it also helps students to develop skills that are essential in the pursuit of more advanced work and in the quest for interesting and challenging employment. Here's a sampling of people who have studied history at Langara College:
- Stephanie Higgs left Langara to pursue courses at both Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. At present she is thoroughly enjoying her work in publishing in New York City.
- Ujjal Dosanjh studied history at Langara before pursuing a law degree. He later became Premier of B.C.
- Kenneth Roberts studied Medieval history at Langara and completed his Ph.D. at the University of East Anglia, U.K.
- Lucy Harrison won the Winston Spencer Churchill Challenge scholarship for a history paper she wrote at Langara. She then entered the Honours History program at U.B.C.
- Ulrich Teucher began studying ancient history at Langara shortly after he immigrated from Germany. He then completed a Ph.D. in Comparative Literature at U.B.C.
- Two former history students chose to pursue careers in education: Elaine Dornan completed a B.Ed at Simon Fraser University; Jack Johnston now teaches primary school in the Vancouver Public School system.
- Michelle Good went straight from Langara to Law School at U.B.C. Having earned her law degree, she is now practising law in Kamloops, representing residential school survivors, after teaching history and indigenous studies at UBC Kelowna.
- After studying History at Langara, Sean Maschmann pursued an Honours BA at UBC. He then went on to complete his Masters degree in History, and is now working as an instructor in our department here at Langara.
Interested in sampling one of our History courses? Watch the video below to find out what we can learn about the Black Death and its legacy.
Scholarships
Every year the History department grants a small number of scholarships to students who have demonstrated exceptional academic ability in past and current history courses.
Gertrude Langridge History Scholarship
In the Fall semester, the Gertrude Langridge History Scholarship is awarded to two students who meet the following criteria:
- currently registered in a History course, as well as in 12 or more credits
- registered in at least 9 credits in one of the previous two semesters
- have a minimum CGPA of 3.0, and minimum GPA in History courses of 3.5
- have completed a minimum of two History courses
- registered in the third term of an Arts program
David Hunden Memorial History Scholarship
In the Spring semester, the David Hunden Memorial History Scholarship is awarded to one student who meets the following criteria:
- currently registered in a minimum of 6 credits of History
- registered in at least 9 credits in the current semester and 9 credits in one of the previous two semesters
- have a minimum CGPA of 3.0
- preference is given to a student with the highest CGPA over the highest number of credits
- recipient may only receive the award once during their studies at Langara College
Ruth and Jonas Lehrman Memorial History Scholarship
In each Spring semester from 2026-2030, the department awards the Ruth and Jonas Memorial History scholarship to a student who has demonstrated an interest in the history of the Muslim world by meeting the following criteria:
be a part-time or full-time student
has completed or is currently enrolled in HIST 2250, 2251, 2252 or 2255
preference is given to a student with the highest CGPA over the highest number of credits
recipient may only receive the award once during their studies at Langara College
Selections for each scholarship are made by the department. For more information, please contact Niall Christie.
Room: B247b
Phone: 604.323.5832
Email: nchristie [at] langara.ca (nchristie[at]langara[dot]ca)
