Bachelor of Arts in History

The Bachelor of Arts in History is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of historical developments across Sri Lanka, South Asia, and Europe. The programme integrates political, cultural, religious, and artistic histories to cultivate critical thinking, analytical skills, and historical interpretation.

The curriculum begins with foundational studies in Sri Lankan history, covering periods from prehistoric times to the modern era. Students examine political transformations, colonial encounters, cultural evolution, and social change. Courses in Indian history explore developments from the Indus Valley Civilization through classical and medieval periods, offering a broader regional perspective.

In addition, the programme includes studies in European history, focusing on major transformations from the Renaissance through the modern age. Special attention is given to religious history, art history, and the historical development of societies, enabling students to understand the interaction between religion, culture, politics, and identity.

Through structured chronological study and thematic analysis, students develop the ability to evaluate historical sources, interpret evidence, and engage in scholarly research. The programme fosters an appreciation of diverse civilizations and encourages comparative historical analysis.

Graduates of the B.A. in History are prepared for careers in education, research, cultural heritage management, public administration, archives, museums, media, and further academic studies. The programme aims to produce informed individuals capable of understanding the past to engage responsibly with the present and future.

Course Code Course Semester
First Year
HIST 11013 The History of Sri Lanka – 01 (From Prehistoric Era to 1500 A.D.) Semester I
HIST 12023 The History of Modern Sri Lanka – 02 (From 1500 A.D. to 1948 A.D.) Semester II
Second Year
HIST 21013 Indian History – 01 (From the Indus Valley Civilization to the End of Mauryan Dynasty) Semester I
HIST 21023 The History of Art in Ancient India (From Indus Valley Civilization to the End of Mughal Era) Semester I
HIST 22033 Indian History – 02 (From 320 A.D. to 1206 A.D.) Semester II
HIST 22043 The History of Sri Lankan Art (From Anuradhapura Era to the End of Kandyan Era) Semester II
Third Year
HIST 31013 History of Modern Europe – 01 (From 1453 A.D. to 1789) Semester I
HIST 31023 The Religious History of Sri Lanka – 01 (From Prehistoric Era to 1500 A.D.) Semester I
HIST 32033 History of Modern Europe – 02 (From 1789 A.D. to 1945 A.D.) Semester II
HIST 32043 The Religious History of Modern Sri Lanka – 02 (From 16th Century to the End of 20th Century) Semester II