A Comprehensive Guide to the History Department at the National University of Singapore

A Legacy of Academic Excellence

Established in 1980, the History Department at the National University of Singapore (NUS) has earned a reputation for its academic excellence and research prowess. It boasts a stellar faculty of renowned scholars who are dedicated to advancing historical knowledge and fostering intellectual curiosity among its students.

Undergraduate Programs

NUS offers a diverse range of undergraduate programs in History, catering to various interests and aspirations:

• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in History (BA Hons): A rigorous program that provides a comprehensive foundation in historical methods and analysis, covering a wide range of geographical and temporal areas.
• Bachelor of Arts (Double Major) with History: Allows students to combine History with another discipline of their choice to broaden their perspectives and develop interdisciplinary skills.
• Bachelor of Social Sciences (Honours) with History as a Second Major: A flexible option for students seeking a broader social sciences education while also developing a strong foundation in History.

Postgraduate Programs

For aspiring scholars and researchers, NUS offers a suite of postgraduate programs in History:

• Master of Arts (MA) in History: A one-year taught program that deepens students' understanding of historical concepts and research methodologies.
• Master of Arts by Research (MPhil): A two-year research degree that provides students with the opportunity to conduct independent research under the supervision of experienced faculty members.
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in History: A rigorous research degree that prepares students for careers in academia, research, or related fields.

Research and Publications

The History Department at NUS is a hub for cutting-edge historical research. Its faculty members are actively engaged in a wide range of research projects, publishing their findings in top academic journals and presenting their work at international conferences. The department's research interests span numerous areas, including:

• Southeast Asian history
• Chinese history
• Indian Ocean history
• Global history
• Colonial and postcolonial studies
• Environmental history

Teaching and Learning

The History Department at NUS is committed to providing students with an exceptional educational experience. Its innovative teaching methods and resources enhance student engagement and foster a vibrant intellectual community. Students benefit from:

• Small class sizes that facilitate active learning and discussion
• State-of-the-art teaching facilities, including the History Resource Centre and the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Laboratory
• Access to a wide range of online resources and academic databases
• Opportunities for independent research and presentation

Career Prospects

Graduates of the History Department at NUS are highly sought-after by employers in various sectors, including:

• Academia and research
• Government and public service
• Education
• Media and communications
• Business and finance
• Non-profit organizations

The department's emphasis on critical thinking, research skills, and communication abilities prepares graduates for a wide range of career paths and lifelong success.

Success Stories

Throughout its history, the History Department at NUS has produced numerous distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions to their respective fields. Here are a few notable examples:

• Dr. Kwa Chong Guan: Former Minister for Foreign Affairs of Singapore and Ambassador to the United Nations
• Professor Wang Gungwu: Professor Emeritus of History at NUS and former President of the International Association of Historians of Asia
• Professor Tan Tai Yong: Professor of History at NUS and author of the award-winning book "The Making of Modern Singapore"

These success stories reflect the department's commitment to nurturing future leaders and scholars who will shape the world through their knowledge and insights.

Effective Strategies

The History Department at NUS has consistently ranked among the top history departments in Asia, based on international rankings such as the QS World University Rankings and the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. Its success can be attributed to a number of effective strategies:

• Faculty Excellence: The department boasts a highly qualified and experienced faculty who are internationally recognized for their research and teaching.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The department actively fosters collaboration with other departments and research centers within NUS, promoting interdisciplinary research and learning.
• International Partnerships: The department maintains strong partnerships with leading universities and research institutions around the world, providing students with opportunities for international exposure and exchange.
• Innovative Teaching: The department embraces innovative teaching methods and technologies to enhance student engagement and retention.
• Research Funding: The department has been successful in securing competitive research grants, which support faculty research and graduate student training.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• World-renowned faculty and research
• Excellent undergraduate and postgraduate programs
• State-of-the-art teaching facilities
• Strong focus on interdisciplinary collaboration
• High graduate employability

Cons:

• Limited course offerings in certain specialized areas
• Competition for admission to graduate programs
• Workload can be demanding, especially at the postgraduate level

Call to Action

If you are passionate about the study of history and seek an intellectually stimulating academic environment, the History Department at the National University of Singapore is the perfect place for you. Visit our website, explore our programs, and discover the opportunities that await you at one of the leading history departments in Asia.

Additional Resources:

• History Department, NUS
• NUS School of Arts and Social Sciences
• QS World University Rankings: History
• Times Higher Education World University Rankings: History

Tables

Table 1: Undergraduate Program Enrollment Data

Table 2: Postgraduate Program Enrollment Data

Table 3: Faculty Research Output

| Faculty Member | Number of Publications in Top Journals (2021-2023) |
|---|---|---|
| Professor X | 5 |
| Associate Professor Y | 3 |
| Assistant Professor Z | 2 |