The PhD in History at Wilfrid Laurier University is a collaborative doctoral program offered jointly with the University of Waterloo, emphasizing advanced research in historical methodologies and specialized fields such as Canadian, American, and European history. The program aims to develop independent scholars capable of original research contributions and teaching at the university level.

Objectives and Unique Features

• Train students in rigorous historical analysis, archival research, and interdisciplinary approaches.
• Unique collaborative structure provides access to resources from both universities, including specialized seminars and cross-registration opportunities.
• Focus on social, cultural, political, and environmental history, with opportunities for public history and digital humanities integration.

Career Prospects for Graduates

Graduates pursue careers in academia, cultural institutions, public policy, and heritage sectors. Common paths include university teaching, research positions, and roles in archives or museums, leveraging skills in critical analysis and historical interpretation.

Key Faculty/Staff Involved

• Faculty from the Department of History at Laurier include experts in North American social history and transnational studies.
• Collaborating faculty from University of Waterloo contribute to European and global history specializations.

Unique Facilities or Partnerships

• Access to the Laurier Library's extensive historical collections and the University of Waterloo Archives.
• Partnerships with local institutions like the Kitchener-Waterloo region's historical societies and digital archives projects.
• TriUniversity History consortium enhances research collaborations across Ontario universities.