Department of History
Vision:
Training students of History to think not what to think.
Mission:
Objectivity of study, Sensitivity to values that promote brotherhood & mutual respect.
The Department of History founded in 1963, offers courses prescribed its Board of Studies in under Goa University, aligned with NEP 2020. The study of various courses is enriched using diverse pedagogical approaches including, role-plays, class presentations, competitions, guest speakers, inter-institutional events. Project students of the Third Year are also guided by the faculty. Internships are offered to students entering Semester V in collaboration with reputed institutions. The History section of the College Library has a good selection of books for reading and reference. The performance of students at the Final Year University Examination has consistently been good. Students of History have successfully ventured into challenging careers in Mass Media, Journalism, Law, Government posts and Teaching at different levels.
The department organises a range of activities, including a Certificate Course in Research and Academic Integrity, collaboration with the Goenchi Asmitai Cell, campus greening initiatives, social outreach through the Kilo Campaign, Sadbhavana Diwas, Nature Conservation Day, guest lectures, alumni motivation sessions, workshops, commemorative events, study tour, and ‘Lights, Camera and Action’
Teacher/Professor, Researcher, Archivist, Curator, Travel Writing and Adventure Journalism, Tourism, Librarian, Historical Consultant, Mass Media, Law, Civil Services, Environmental Preservation and Sustainability, Heritage Management, Heritage Consultant, Genealogist and Museum Educator.
Students of the Department of History are trained not merely to memorize past events but to develop analytical, intellectual, and practical skills across disciplines. Annual study tours in Goa form an integral part of history education, providing students with experiential learning beyond the classroom. These tours enable students to visit historically significant sites such as forts, museums, heritage buildings, and archaeological locations.
Students are also encouraged to question sources, interpret evidence, and understand multiple perspectives. They learn to distinguish between fact and opinion, assess the reliability of information, and construct well-reasoned arguments Research is a core component of historical training. Students are equipped with the ability to locate, analyze, and synthesize primary and secondary sources. Communication skills are also significantly enhanced. History students develop clarity in writing and expression. The discipline nurtures a strong sense of empathy and cultural awareness. Students gain a broader understanding of human behavior and social change over time.
St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa, has been a deeply enriching and transformative experience for me. As a student of the Departments of History and English, I was guided by passionate professors who encouraged critical thinking and a genuine love for learning beyond the classroom. The supportive faculty, engaging academic environment, and numerous activities helped build my confidence, broaden my perspective, and strengthen my academic foundation. The vibrant campus and memorable experiences have played an important role in shaping my journey, and I remain proud and grateful to be a Xavierite.
— Ms Gayatri Haldankar