Year 1: discovery and introduction. Four historical periods are covered equally through introductory and complementary classes to general themes. Methodological support is provided in addition to the practical work sessions (TDs).
Year 2: development. Four historical periods are covered equally based on more specific themes. The major issues in the discipline are the subject of a compulsory once-yearly class. Elective classes (Tools) allow students to make a specialization choice (each semester) and to start learning about research issues. Professional Project Methodology is scheduled for semester 4 (S4) so that students can begin to prepare their choice of pathway in the third year (L3) and to consider the Master’s courses.
Year 3: reinforcement. An introduction to the Master’s course. Students are given a practical introduction to research, which is supported by practical work session (TP) exercises. Each pathway focuses on the four historical periods in different ways.
Objectives
-
To provide students with an in-depth knowledge of the major historical questions;
-
To equip students with historical knowledge of all periods (ancient, medieval, modern, contemporary);
-
To introduce students to historical analysis and basic historical tools (bibliography, compiling of written and oral sources, etc.).
Skills
The skills required in all three pathways are the same:
Year 1:
Acquisition, by chronological period, of a fundamental knowledge base; introduction to the challenges involved in the discipline of history by studying the periods and methods most familiar to “new” students through regular exercises (in semester 1 (S1) this is a dissertation, in S2, a document commentary); emphasis on oral and written expression.
Year 2:
Enhancement, by chronological period, of the fundamental knowledge base; a more in-depth look at the challenges involved in the discipline of history by revising dissertation techniques and document commentary (oral and written).
Year 3:
Mastery, by chronological period and by theme, of fundamental knowledge and methods in the discipline of history, good command of dissertation production and the commentary of historical documents (oral and written).
Course Content
Course content in the first two years is shared, with options available. In year 3, two pathways are taught at Rennes:
-
Historical Sciences: for students considering careers in teaching and research (research master’s and/or MEEF).
-
History Political Science: primarily for students considering careers in the civil service (competitive examinations, IPAG Business School) or in the information and communication sector (Institute of Political Studies (IEP) masters, etc.). Students can begin to prepare for this path in year 1 by choosing certain minor options and in year 2 through the specific discovery teaching units (UEOs).
A specific pathway is offered at Saint-Brieuc:
-
History, territories and heritage: a general course with a heritage slant to allow students to direct their studies towards the culture, heritage and tourism sectors.
