National History Day

National History Day is a year-long academic program focused on historical research, interpretation, and creative expression for 6th- to 12th-grade students.

By participating in National History Day (NHD), students become writers, filmmakers, web designers, playwrights, and artists as they create unique contemporary expressions of history. The experience culminates in a series of contests at the local and affiliate levels and an annual national competition in the nation’s capital in June.

Every year, the Science History Institute partners with students and teachers working on NHD projects. We create research guides, assist with reference questions, and sometimes even serve as judges for the regional competitions. If you need any research help with your project, we encourage you to get in touch.

Our collections contain secondary and primary resources that are historically significant. Students can access our digital collections or make an appointment to research in-person at our library in Philadelphia. 

Make the history of science a part of your NHD project!

NHD 2023

The theme narrative for the 2023 National History Day competition is “Frontiers in History: People, Places, Ideas.”

Our librarians have compiled our learning resources and collection items related to this theme in a special NHD 2023 research guide. From biographies of famous scientists to free online articles on the history of television, the history of science can be a part of your NHD project!