Program Overview

College of Arts and Sciences

The College of Arts and Sciences offers a comprehensive education in the field of history, sharpening skills such as critical thinking, logical argumentation, archival research, data analysis, oral communication, and written communication. These skills are invaluable for a meaningful and productive life beyond college.

History Program

The study of history integrates different modes of thinking, examining complex issues that shape societies and institutions, as well as the ways individuals and groups understand their experience through culture and ideas. Students learn to study the past from many approaches and to relate their findings in formats geared toward a variety of audiences. Graduates pursue a wide range of careers in fields such as business, education, government, diplomacy, law, non-profit organizations, and cultural heritage institutions.

Program Structure

Students start with a signature course for history majors, followed by three introductory courses that emphasize the breadth and diversity of the human experience. Next, students take electives in five themes that include several world regions and periods (ancient to present):

• Local and public history
• Social and cultural history
• War and diplomacy
• Political and economic history
• Transnational history In the final year, students concentrate on a specific theme and develop a sophisticated research project in the senior seminar. As they progress, students receive skills-based training specific to the discipline of history, and they learn how to apply these skills to professional contexts through internships and other experiential learning opportunities.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the baccalaureate degree, students in history are expected to:

• Evaluate core assumptions about historical thinking and the discipline of history
• Apply historical skills and knowledge to a variety of career options
• Produce historical scholarship integrating ethical and civic values, as well as professional standards
• Analyze historical events and processes
• Compose historical narratives integrating varied modes of expression

Degree Requirements

• Major, Bachelor of Arts (33 hours) - minor required
• Minor (21 hours)
  • Up to ten hours chosen from any 1000- or 2000-level courses
  • All other hours from any 3000-level or 4000-level HIST courses, with at least three hours at the 4000-level