Bachelor of Arts [B.A] (History and Philosophy)
Field of Study:
$21,534 /Yr
Lakehead University Bachelor of Arts History and Philosophy is a four-year honours degree offered in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada. The programme trains undergraduate students in critical thinking across two complementary disciplines. Domestic and international students with a minimum 75 percent high school average and IELTS 6.5 can apply. Tuition costs approximately C$40,000 per year (INR 27.26 Lakhs). Fall, Winter, and Spring intakes are available annually.
This BA combines historical analysis with philosophical inquiry to develop graduates equipped for teaching, heritage work, and research careers. The programme emphasises primary source analysis, textual interpretation, and rigorous argumentation. Students benefit from small seminar sizes at a mid-sized Canadian university. It suits applicants passionate about understanding human civilisations and the ideas that shape them.
- Affordable tuition with multiple merit scholarships based on entry grades.
- Post-graduation work permit allows up to four years of Canadian employment.
- Strong teaching placement rates in Ontario public schools via transparent salary grids.
Current Admission Status
Applications for the Fall 2026 intake are Open. International student deadline: 1 March 2026.
Indian applicants must arrange WES credential evaluation (timeline: 2-3 weeks) before submitting transcripts to Lakehead’s admissions office.
Also Check: Lakehead University History and Philosophy Admission
Lakehead University History and Philosophy Fees and Living Costs 2026
Tuition for international undergraduates ranges based on programme selection. History and Philosophy follows the standard science/arts undergraduate rate. Below is a breakdown of first-year and annual costs in Canadian dollars with INR equivalents.
| Fee Component | Amount (CAD) | Amount (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Tuition | C$40,000 | INR 27.26 Lakhs |
| International Student Health Insurance (Annual) | C$948 | INR 64,581 |
| Student Association Fee (Annual) | C$150 | INR 10,221 |
| Technology and Facilities Fee (Annual) | C$400 | INR 27,256 |
| Application Fee (One-time) | C$135 | INR 9,198 |
| Tuition Deposit (Due 30 days before start) | C$1,000 | INR 68,140 |
| First-Year Total (excluding deposit) | C$41,498 | INR 28.28 Lakhs |
| Annual Cost (Years 2-4) | C$41,498 | INR 28.28 Lakhs |
| Four-Year Total | C$166,992 | INR 1.14 Crore |
All INR conversions in the article use a conversion rate of CAD 1 = INR 68.14 as of June 2026. Rates fluctuate daily, verify before applying.
- Tuition is fixed across the four-year programme and does not increase annually for international students entering before spring 2027.
- Health insurance is mandatory for all international students and automatically billed to the student account.
- The tuition deposit (C$1,000 / INR 68,140) is credited against first-term fees and must be paid within 30 days of an admission offer.
- Some scholarships can reduce tuition cost by up to C$10,000 per year for eligible applicants.
Cost of Living in Thunder Bay for History and Philosophy Students
Thunder Bay is located on the northern shore of Lake Superior in Northwestern Ontario. Living costs for a single international student are moderate compared to major Canadian cities.
| Expense Category | Monthly Range (CAD) | Monthly Range (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1-bedroom apartment, not in residence) | C$800 to C$1,000 | INR 54,512 to INR 68,140 |
| Utilities (electricity, water, internet) | C$150 to C$200 | INR 10,221 to INR 13,628 |
| Groceries and Dining | C$400 to C$550 | INR 27,256 to INR 37,477 |
| Local Transport and Car Insurance | C$100 to C$150 | INR 6,814 to INR 10,221 |
| Personal Care and Miscellaneous | C$200 to C$300 | INR 13,628 to INR 20,442 |
| Total Monthly (Estimate) | C$1,650 to C$2,200 | INR 1.12 Lakhs to INR 1.50 Lakhs |
| Annual Living Cost | C$19,800 to C$26,400 | INR 13.50 Lakhs to INR 18 Lakhs |
ROI Reality: Combined annual cost (tuition plus living) is approximately C$61,000 to C$67,500 (INR 41.56 Lakhs to INR 46 Lakhs), making this a mid-tier option for Canadian study abroad compared to major cities like Toronto or Vancouver.
Also Check: Cost of Living in Canada for Indian Students
Lakehead University History and Philosophy Admission 2026
Lakehead University has clear, transparent admission criteria for international undergraduates. The History and Philosophy programme admits based on academic performance, English proficiency, and programme capacity.
| Admission Criterion | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Minimum High School Average | 75 percent or equivalent (IB 24+) |
| English Language Proficiency (IELTS Academic) | Overall 6.5 (Listening 6.0, Reading 6.0, Writing 6.0, Speaking 6.0) |
| English Language Proficiency (TOEFL iBT) | Overall 80 (Listening 19, Reading 19, Writing 19, Speaking 19) |
| English Language Proficiency (Pearson PTE) | Overall 60 with minimum 53 in each component |
| English Language Proficiency (CAEL) | Overall 70 in all components |
| Preferred Programme Prerequisites | No specific subject requirements; strong writing and reading skills valued |
Lakehead University is ranked 601-700 globally in the QS World University Rankings 2024. For History and Philosophy as a combined discipline, the university does not publish a separate subject ranking. Applicants value the programme for its small class sizes and faculty expertise in medieval European history, ancient philosophy, and Canadian intellectual history.
English Language Proficiency (ELP) Block for International Students
International students must demonstrate English proficiency via IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or CAEL. The most common choice for Indian applicants is IELTS Academic.
- IELTS 6.5 is the most recognised test for Canadian universities; Indian test centres offer 4+ sittings monthly.
- TOEFL iBT (80) aligns with IELTS 6.5 equivalence; the US-based test suits applicants planning to apply simultaneously to American universities.
- Academic English Programme (AEP) provides conditional admission for students scoring IELTS 5.5 to 6.0; pathway programmes last 8-12 weeks before main coursework begins.
- Test scores must be from the last two years; retakes cost INR 16,000-INR 18,000 depending on the test centre.
Tip for Indian Students: Book IELTS three to four months before your intended intake date. Processing credential evaluations via WES adds 2-3 weeks to the admissions timeline.
Lakehead University History and Philosophy Application 2026
Applications are processed on a rolling basis. Early applicants enjoy higher scholarship chances. Deadlines listed below are for international students; late applications may be considered subject to programme availability.
| Intake | Recommended Deadline | Rolling Deadline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 2026 | 1 March 2026 | 30 June 2026 | Open (Rolling) |
| Winter 2027 | 1 September 2026 | 30 November 2026 | Opens 1 July 2026 |
| Spring/Summer 2027 | 1 February 2027 | 30 April 2027 | Expected December 2026 |
- Submit the online application via Lakehead’s admissions portal at lakeheadu.ca/studentcentral.
- Enclose certified English translations of all non-English transcripts; WES credential evaluation is required for Indian national qualifications (HSC/CBSE/ICSE).
- Pay the non-refundable application fee of C$135 (INR 9,198) by debit or credit card during the application process.
- Expected admission decision timeline is four to six weeks after a complete application is received.
Application Tip: Apply by the recommended deadline to maximize merit scholarship eligibility. Rolling admission ends 30 June; after this, only exceptional applicants may be considered for Fall 2026.
Lakehead University History and Philosophy Scholarships 2026
Lakehead offers substantial merit scholarships for international undergraduate entrants based on admission average. Scholarships are renewable if students maintain the required GPA in subsequent years.
| Scholarship | Admission Average | Annual Amount (CAD) | Annual Amount (INR) | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International Entrance Scholarship (Tier 1) | 90% or higher (IB 35+) | C$10,000 | INR 6.81 Lakhs | 4 years (if 90% GPA maintained) |
| International Entrance Scholarship (Tier 2) | 80% to 89.9% (IB 30-34) | C$7,500 | INR 5.11 Lakhs | 4 years (if 80% GPA maintained) |
| International Entrance Scholarship (Tier 3) | 75% to 79.9% (IB 28-29) | C$6,000 | INR 4.09 Lakhs | Year 1 only (non-renewable) |
| Total Scholarship Potential (4-year) | 90%+ | C$40,000 | INR 27.26 Lakhs | Full tuition coverage |
- Scholarships are awarded automatically; no separate application is required.
- An international student with a 90 percent average receives C$10,000 per year, covering one quarter of tuition costs.
- Graduate assistantships worth C$11,314 per year are available to some full-time graduate students (not applicable to undergraduates).
Scholarship Reality: Even with a Tier 1 scholarship, total four-year cost is INR 1.02 Crore after deducting the C$40,000 award. International student loans from Indian banks (HDFC, ICICI) can bridge this gap at 8 to 10 percent interest.
Read More: Scholarships for Indian Students in Canada
Lakehead University History and Philosophy Salary 2026
History and Philosophy BA graduates most commonly enter secondary school teaching, heritage conservation, archives, and academic research. Teaching remains the largest employment sector for this discipline in Ontario.
| Career Path | Entry Salary (CAD) | Entry Salary (INR) | Experience Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Secondary School Teacher (Ontario Public Schools) | C$53,625 to C$71,424 | INR 36.54 Lakhs to INR 48.68 Lakhs | First year |
| Heritage/Archaeology Technician | C$48,000 to C$58,000 | INR 32.71 Lakhs to INR 39.52 Lakhs | First year |
| Museum Curator/Collections Manager | C$55,000 to C$72,000 | INR 37.48 Lakhs to INR 49.06 Lakhs | 3-5 years experience |
| Senior Teacher / Department Head | C$85,000 to C$110,000 | INR 57.92 Lakhs to INR 75 Lakhs | 8+ years |
Source: Statistics Canada Job Bank 2026, Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation (OSSTF) salary grids, Glassdoor Canada.
- Ontario public school teachers follow transparent, province-wide salary grids negotiated by unions; salaries increase automatically by seniority, not merit.
- After-tax take-home pay in Ontario is 55 to 65 percent of gross salary due to federal tax (14-33 percent), provincial tax (5-13 percent), CPP (5.95 percent), and EI (1.62 percent).
- History graduates in private schools or international schools may earn 10 to 20 percent less but often access faster promotion to leadership roles.
- Heritage and museum roles typically offer lower entry salaries but provide pathways to specialisation in cultural resource management.
ROI Reality: Teaching in Ontario is financially stable with predictable growth. A first-year teacher earns INR 36-49 Lakhs gross; after 10 years, most reach INR 50-75 Lakhs as department heads. Tuition cost (INR 1.14 Crore) is recouped within 2.5 to 3 years of employment.
Check Out: Post-Study Work Visa and Career Pathways in Canada
Canada Visa History and Philosophy 2026
International students studying in Canada are eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allowing Canadian employment after degree completion. Ontario’s teaching shortage creates strong employment pathways for education graduates.
- The PGWP duration matches the programme length; a four-year BA entitles holders to up to four years of open work rights.
- The permit allows employment with any Canadian employer without needing individual work permits for each job change.
- Graduates working as secondary school teachers in Ontario public boards (NOC 4141) are eligible for Express Entry with a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 450-480.
- Provincial Nominee Programme (PNP) pathways are available for teachers with 12+ months Ontario experience; processing takes approximately 12 months to permanent residency.
Visa Reality: A History teacher completing the four-year degree can work in Ontario schools on the PGWP for four years, building experience toward Express Entry permanent residency. Spouse and dependent visas are also available, allowing family reunification during this period.
Read More: Canada Student Visa Requirements and Timeline
Lakehead University History and Philosophy Ranking 2026
Lakehead University ranks 601-700 globally in the QS World University Rankings 2024. The institution is not ranked separately for History and Philosophy as a combined subject area.
Lakehead’s reputation in the History and Philosophy programmes is built on teaching quality and undergraduate access rather than international research rankings. The university prioritises seminar-based learning and direct faculty engagement.
- Small class sizes distinguish Lakehead History from larger research universities in Canada; most seminars have 15 to 25 students.
- Faculty specialise in medieval European history, Canadian intellectual history, ancient Greek philosophy, and ethics.
- Lakehead does not appear in subject-specific rankings such as QS History, THE Philosophy, or FT Master’s Programmes.
Honest Take: If you prioritise global rankings and research prestige, larger Canadian universities (University of Toronto, UBC) rank higher. Lakehead suits students seeking strong teaching, affordable costs, and direct mentor relationships over research prominence.
History and Philosophy FAQs
Ques. Can I complete a History and Philosophy BA in fewer than four years?
Ans. Most Canadian universities, including Lakehead, require four years (120 credit hours) for a BA honours degree. Part-time enrolment is possible; this extends the degree to five to six years. Accelerated paths are not standard.
Ques. What visa requirements must I meet as an Indian student?
Ans. You need a valid passport, proof of admission from Lakehead, proof of financial support (approximately INR 41.56 Lakhs minimum for the first year), proof of ties to India, and a negative medical examination. Processing from submission to visa approval takes 4 to 8 weeks during the Fall intake period.
Ques. Are there on-campus work opportunities for international students?
Ans. Yes. International students may work up to 20 hours per week during study terms and full-time during scheduled breaks (May to August, December to January). On-campus work includes library assistant, tutor, and administrative roles paying approximately C$16.55 per hour (minimum wage in Ontario).
Ques. Can I pursue a teaching degree after the BA History and Philosophy?
Ans. Yes. After completing the BA, you can apply to a one-year Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) programme at Lakehead or other Ontario universities. A History and Philosophy BA satisfies the subject requirements for secondary teacher certification in Ontario.
Ques. What is the typical class size for History and Philosophy courses?
Ans. First-year lectures may have 50 to 80 students; upper-level seminars and Honours seminars typically have 12 to 25 students. This small-seminar model is a key strength of Lakehead’s humanities programmes.
Choosing Lakehead University for History and Philosophy means prioritising undergraduate teaching quality, affordable tuition in a mid-sized Canadian city, and a clear pathway to secondary school teaching in Ontario. The programme suits Indian students seeking a stable career (teaching) with transparent salary growth, strong work-study opportunities, and a post-graduation work permit pathway to Canadian permanent residency. The total investment of INR 1.14 Crore over four years aligns with mid-tier Canadian universities and returns within three years of entering the Ontario teacher salary grid.
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $21534 (CAD 30763) |
Previous Year Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| 2024 | $20929 (CAD 29899) |
| 2023 | $20012 (CAD 28589) |
| 2021 | $12292 (CAD 17560) |
Important Dates
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Key Resources for Your Study Abroad Journey
Course Guides
Bachelor of Arts in Canada: Top Universities, Cost for Indian Students, and Scope
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Options Available
| Program | Delivery Type | Duration | Program Type | Tuition Fees |
| B.A History and Women Studies | full time | 3 years | honours, on-campus | $21534.1 |
| B.A History and Political Science | full time | 3 years | honours, on-campus | $21534.1 |
Scholarship Grants & Financial Aids
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VueVille Future Technology Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 700/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Go Clean Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 2,450/Yr$3,500 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Forktip Women’s- Innovation Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| Jared J. Davis Grant | Scholarship per student$ 700/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Axol Science Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 1,400/Yr$2,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCompany-Sponsored | |
| Business Administration Scholarships | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based |

















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