Program Overview

Pacific Lutheran University History Program

The History program at Pacific Lutheran University is designed to help students understand how the world got to where it is today and learn how to think critically about where we're headed next. Students will explore a wide range of voices, time periods, and perspectives while tackling big questions about power, identity, conflict, and change.

About the Program

As a PLU history major, you'll discover how the world got to where it is today and learn how to think critically about where we're headed next. You'll explore a wide range of voices, time periods, and perspectives while tackling big questions about power, identity, conflict, and change. There are also many ways to extend your learning beyond the classroom, including studying abroad, collaborating with a professor on research, applying for fellowships, or getting involved in history-related clubs and campus events.

Skills You'll Gain

• Research & Analysis: Learn to gather and interpret evidence from primary and secondary sources, spot bias, and build strong arguments about complex events and ideas.
• Critical Thinking: Hone your skill in questioning assumptions, weighing multiple perspectives, and connecting past events to current issues and global trends.
• Project Management: Through major research projects and internships, practice organizing information, managing long-term assignments, and presenting findings with clarity.
• Writing & Communication: Develop the ability to write clearly and persuasively, translating complex historical information into compelling essays, presentations, and digital projects.
• Collaboration & Leadership: Work with peers, faculty, and community partners to discuss, debate, and create new understandings of history, building teamwork and leadership skills.

Career Opportunities

Graduates from the History program at PLU have gone on to pursue a variety of careers, including:

• Lawyer, Northwest Immigrant Rights Project
• Explosive Ordinance Disposal Officer, United States Army
• High School Social Studies Teacher, Auburn School District
• Research Assistant, University of Washington
• Financial Advisor, Northwestern Mutual Foundation
• Field Organizer, Congressional Campaign

Graduate Programs

Graduates from the last 5 years have also gone on to pursue graduate programs at institutions such as:

• PhD in History, Columbia University
• Master of Applied Linguistics, University of Alaska Fairbanks
• Law School, Willamette University
• Master of Library and Information Science, University of Washington
• Master of Arts in Education, Pacific Lutheran University
• Master of Museum Studies, University of Glasgow

Study Abroad

History students at PLU regularly study away for a semester, year, or January Term in countries such as England, Namibia, Trinidad & Tobago, Greece, and Italy.

Research Opportunities

History students have the opportunity to participate in paid student-faculty research projects each summer in areas such as Holocaust & Genocide Studies, Business & Economic History, and related projects.

Outcomes

86% of 2024 History graduates reported employment or acceptance into graduate school within 6 months of graduating.