Get Involved
The College of Letters and Science the Department of History and International Studies are proud sponsors of National History Day® (NHD), a program that engages middle school and high school students in historical research and academic competition. It encourages the study of history in schools in a creative forum. NHD offers five creative categories in each division. In the process, studying the past builds empathy and hones research, writing, and analytical skills.
To coincide with the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, NHD’s 2026 theme is Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History. Watch video below!
Students choose their topic and a category for presenting, including:
- Write a paper
- Create an exhibit
- Develop a performance
- Make a documentary
- Design a website
2026 THEME
Revolution, REACTION, REFORM IN HISTORY
- Contest Date:
- Registration Deadline:
- Project Deadline (Website, paper & documentary):
- Written Materials Due:
The National Contest at the University of Maryland is the culmination of the annual competition cycle and a celebration of student scholarship. After spending months on project research and preparation, and successfully competing at local and affiliate contests, student scholars are invited to share their work at the National Competition.