Established in 2017 during the 101st Senate meeting of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, the Department of History and International Studies has rapidly grown to become one of the largest and most esteemed departments within the Faculty of Arts. Spearheaded by the visionary leadership of Prof. Cynado C.N.O Ezeogidi as the pioneer Head of Department, the department has flourished, achieving numerous milestones in both academic excellence and student development.

Important Milestones:

1. Pioneer Academic Staff: The department started with a dedicated team including Prof. Cynado Ezeogidi, Dr. Ozioma Uchime, and Mrs. Esther Okezie. It later expanded to include esteemed scholars such as Prof. Ngozi Ojiakor, Prof. Dan Chukwu, and Prof. Chuka Enuka as adjunct and contract lecturers.
2. Student Growth: From its humble beginnings with 17 pioneer students, the department now boasts approximately 1,058 students, making it one of the most populous departments in the university.
3. Introduction of Postgraduate Programs: In the 2022/2023 session, the department launched its Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) and Masters of Arts (M.A) programs, further solidifying its academic prowess.
4. Academic Leadership: Prof. Cynado C.N.O Ezeogidi, who has been instrumental in the department’s development, continues to lead as both a distinguished lecturer and the current Dean.

Achievements

The Department of History and International Studies at COOU has achieved significant milestones, contributing to both academia and community development:

1. Publication of COOU International Journal: The department launched the COOU International Journal of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Global Affairs, showcasing academic research and contributions from students and faculty.
2. 1st International Conference: Organized a successful international conference themed “Democracy, Protest, and Governance in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic” in April 2024, highlighting its commitment to scholarly discourse and national issues.
3. Academic Excellence: Consistently produces top graduates, including several first-class honours students such as Kurume Chinonso Christian, Omenife Grace Amarachi, and Okpala Chidiogo Anthonia.
4. Sporting Achievement: Won the prestigious Dean’s Cup in the university’s football competition in 2021, showcasing a well-rounded approach to student life and engagement.

Future Targets

The department is committed to ongoing improvement and aims to achieve the following future targets:

1. National and International Competitions: Participating and excelling in various academic competitions and exhibitions to enhance its reputation globally.
2. Educational Excursions: Organizing more excursions to historical and archaeological sites, as well as foreign ministries and embassies, enriching students’ learning experiences.
3. Sustaining Excellence: Upholding the university’s core values of Visibility, Viability, and Values, ensuring continuous growth and relevance in academia and beyond.

Mission and Philosophy

Mission Statement:

The Department of History and International Studies is dedicated to providing students with a deep understanding of local, national, and international environments. Through rigorous study of history, historiography, and international relations, the department prepares graduates to be knowledgeable and ethical professionals capable of contributing to global peace and development.

Philosophy:

The department’s philosophy emphasizes the interconnectedness of humanity and its environment. With a strong focus on the past, present, and future, particularly within the context of Southeastern Nigeria and beyond, the program aims to develop professionals who can promote peace, economic growth, and national development through their expertise in history and international studies.

Admission Requirements and Procedures

Undergraduate Admission Requirements:

– Prospective students must meet UTME requirements, including credit passes in relevant subjects such as English Language, Mathematics, and Government/History/CRK/Literature in English/Igbo.

– Direct Entry candidates should possess relevant qualifications such as A’ Level papers, ND, or HND with required grades.

Postgraduate Admission Requirements:

– General requirements include a minimum of five O’Level credits, completion of NYSC or exemption, and specific academic qualifications for PGD, M.A., and Ph.D. programs.

Programmes Offered

The Department of History and International Studies offers the following programs:

– B.Sc. in History and International Studies

– Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) in History and International Studies

– M.A. in History and International Studies.