Introduction
The Minor in History programme is designed as a course of studies that will provide an academic and intellectual impetus to the curricula followed in Brac University. An education in the Humanities is a crucial part of any institution of higher studies, and historical knowledge and methods an essential ingredient in the creation of new knowledge. It is with these considerations in mind that we are proposing the introduction of a Minor in History in the Brac University curriculum.
Background
Brac University follows a liberal arts structure, where students are encouraged to pursue a broad-based knowledge, based on the combination of courses from various disciplines. With this end in view, Minor programmes are available in Sociology and Anthropology in the social sciences, and students who are graduating in the sciences can take, for example, a minor in Physics, while majoring in Electronic and Electrical Engineering and so on. Students also graduate with double majors, and make a combination of majors and minors in various subjects, such as English and Law, or Business and Economics. This kind of combination equips students with a broad-based knowledge, giving them the tools for future research at the postgraduate level.
Objective of the Programme
The Minor in History programme has a global and transnational, as well as a regional focus. National historical trends and events are thus examined within a wider framework, making the study more relevant and enabling students to see the broader context in which we live.
The history programme has an intellectual and cultural focus, seeing how political and social events frame our historical development. Historical movements and changes are seen in conjunction with society and culture, connecting historical events and happenings to the understanding of contemporary issues.
Target group
The Minor in History can be relevant to students of English, Economics, Law, Business Administration and Architecture. Students of Science, Engineering and pharmacy may also be benefited. The real target group would be Social Science and Humanities students, as this would enhance their general understanding of their field.
Students can also take a few courses from the History stream, not leading to a Minor, but as part of their Free Elective courses.
Curriculum
Structure
A total of 24 credits would be required for the History Minor. The following is the breakdown of the credit requirements:
Requirements | Credits |
Required Courses | |
Core Courses | 9 Credits |
Additional Courses | |
4 courses in history, including historical methods | 12 credits |
At least one 400-level course | 3 Credits |
Total Courses | |
24 Credits |
A division of the core and required courses can be found in the list of courses.
Teaching Methods
The classroom teaching will be accompanied by field trips and small research projects. Emphasis will be on historical methods, as historical research methodology forms the core of research in the humanities and social sciences. A combination of methods, such as theoretical, archival and field studies will form part of the teaching approach in this programme. We will be following a student- centred learning with interactive sessions, seminars and student presentations.