Program Overview
History
Strengthen your critical thinking, research, writing, and communication skills. Understand the past so you can launch into the future ready to make a difference.
Types
- Bachelor
- Minor
Location
- On-Campus
Credits
- 38*
Cost
- $9,875
Overview
To embrace the future, you must first understand the past. “Those who don’t understand history are doomed to repeat it,” it’s said. Well, “those who don’t understand history” must not have been history majors at Cumberlands. At this university, we don’t limit our bachelor’s degree in history to merely studying politics and recounts of countries; much more lies beneath the surface, and we dig in! The small class sizes here give you a more involved and personable classroom experience, and our knowledgeable and caring faculty will help you choose the combination of courses that best support your goals and dreams.
You have the power to take the past, remold it in the present, and improve the future; no other degree can do what history program can. The world “way back when” may have the key to transforming the world we know today into one we can be proud to teach in the future. Not to mention, innumerable careers benefit from the skills you learn in a history degree program, giving you an advantage in your job search after college. Or, if you’d like to further your education, stepping into a graduate program is an easy transition.
By the Numbers
Average Salary
- $63,940
Industry Growth
- 4%
Students Make the Dean's List
- 1 in 5
National Distinctions
- 5
Programs & Requirements
Bachelor of Science in History
Discover the fascinating past of America and the rest of the world! With a Bachelor of Arts in history, you will embark on an adventure to reveal the secrets of people from the past and learn to apply it to make a better future. From the U.S. to the U.K. to the rest of the world, an informed understanding of the culture and power dynamic of different continents is vital to create a future that’s worthwhile. With the knowledge of what happened in years prior, you can forge a new path in life. In your history classes at Cumberlands, you will research wars, influential people, cultural eras and how they impacted the population, and much more!
Course Requirements
- Required Courses (29 hours)
- HIST 137 - World Civilization to 1648
- HIST 138 - World Civilization since 1648
- HIST 131 - United States History to 1877
- HIST 132 - United States History since 1877
- HIST 224 - Research Mechanics
- HIST 225 - Research Composition
- POLS 131 - Introduction to Political Science
- POLS 233 - American National Government
- POLS 235 - Introduction to International Relations
- POLS 490 - Senior Research Composition OR
- HIST 490 - Senior Research Capstone
- Electives (18 hours)
- All Electives must be 300/400 level in HIST or POLS prefixes.
- Students must take at least 6 credit hours of HIST courses, at least 3 credit hours of which must be at the 400 level.
Bachelor of Arts
A Bachelor of Arts requires all the same courses as a Bachelor of Science with the addition of four classes (12 hours) in a foreign language.
- Choose one foreign language sequence:
- FREN 131 Elementary French I
- FREN 132 Elementary French II
- FREN 231 Intermediate French I
- FREN 232 Intermediate French II
- SPAN 131 Elementary Spanish I
- SPAN 132 Elementary Spanish II
- SPAN 231 Intermediate Spanish I
- SPAN 232 Intermediate Spanish II
Minor in History
Have you always liked learning about history but wrestled with whether you should turn it into your career or not? Good news: University of the Cumberlands offers the perfect balance so you can learn more about what you love while still pursuing a different degree. When you minor in history, you open the doors for valuable and marketable information to add to your repertoire, all while you chase after your other dreams.
Course Requirements
- Required Courses (12 hours)
- HIST 131 - United States History to 1877
- HIST 132 - United States History since 1877
- HIST 137 - World Civilization to 1648
- HIST 138 - World Civilization since 1648
- Intermediate Studies Courses (6 hours)
- Choose two courses from the following:
- HIST 334 - Intermediate Studies in Early American History
- HIST 335 - Intermediate Studies in Modern American History
- HIST 336 - Intermediate Studies in European History
- HIST 337 - Intermediate Studies in Military History
- HIST 338 - Intermediate Studies in Intellectual History
- HIST 339 - Intermediate Studies in Constitutional History
- Choose two courses from the following:
- Advanced Studies Courses (6 hours)
- Choose two courses from the following:
- HIST 431 - Advanced Studies in Early American History
- HIST 432 - Advanced Studies in Modern American History
- HIST 433 - Advanced Studies in European History
- HIST 434 - Advanced Studies in Military History
- HIST 438 - Advanced Studies in Intellectual History
- HIST 439 - Advanced Studies in Constitutional History
- Choose two courses from the following:
Bachelor of Science with a Major in History & Political Science
Interested in politics but still want to study history? UC's Bachelor of Science in History & Political Science offers you the best of both worlds. No need to double major when we've got everything you need in one degree! Explore the depths of U.S. and world history and learn to navigate the future through a political lens! With classes that dive into the expanse of government and powers, you will equip yourself with a well of invaluable knowledge that you can use in your personal as well as your professional life! Learn about the past, and acquire the skills needed to change the future!
Course Requirements
- Required Courses (29 hours)
- HIST 137 - World Civilization to 1648
- HIST 138 - World Civilization since 1648
- HIST 131 - United States History to 1877
- HIST 132 - United States History since 1877
- HIST 224 - Research Mechanics
- HIST 225 - Research Composition
- POLS 131 - Introduction to Political Science
- POLS 233 - American National Government
- POLS 235 - Introduction to International Relations
- POLS 490 - Senior Research Composition OR
- HIST 490 - Senior Research Capstone
- Electives (18 hours)
- All Electives must be 300/400 level.
- 6 Credit Hours must be HIST electives, the remaining 12 hours from HIST or POLS electives
Mission & Goals
The goal of the Department of History at UC is to guide you as you pursue the intellectual, spiritual, and social objectives of the university, while simultaneously gaining an understanding of historically relevant topics as they apply to the world today.
- Deepen knowledge of American and world civilizations.
- Cultivate appreciation of cultural issues within past and present societies.
- Strengthen critical thinking, reading comprehension, and research skills.
- Prepare to pursue history-related fields and/or post-graduate study.
- Sharpen written and verbal communication skills.
Career Outcomes
- Curator: $50,120
- High School Teacher: $61,820
- Historian: $63,940
- Management Analysts: $93,000
- Archeologist: $61,910
- Paralegal: $56,230
Common Questions
- What is a history degree?
- A history degree involves studying past events, societies, and cultures to understand how they shape the present and future. The program emphasizes critical thinking, research, writing, and analysis of historical sources and narratives.
- How long does a history degree take?
- A bachelor's degree in history typically takes four years to complete when studying full-time. An associate degree usually takes about two years, while graduate degrees such as a master's or doctoral degree will require additional time.
- Can I get a history degree online?
- Yes, many institutions offer history degrees online. These programs often include online coursework and may require participation in virtual discussions or research projects. Some programs might also offer hybrid options combining online and on-campus components.
- Is a history degree worth it?
- A history degree can be worth it if you are passionate about understanding and interpreting past events. It develops valuable skills such as research, writing, and critical thinking, which are applicable in various career fields. It can also be a strong foundation for further education or specialized career paths.
- What can I do with a history degree?
- With a history degree, you can pursue careers such as historian, curator, archivist, high school teacher, archeologist, management analyst, or paralegal. The degree provides skills that are valuable in many fields, including education, research, museum curation, and consulting.
- How to get a history degree?
- To obtain a history degree, you need to enroll in an accredited program offering either an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. The program will require you to complete coursework in various historical periods and themes, research projects, and possibly internships or practical experiences.
- What would a history degree teach me?
- A history degree teaches you to analyze and interpret historical events, understand cultural and societal developments, conduct research, and communicate findings effectively. It provides insights into how historical contexts influence contemporary issues and practices.
- Can I double-major in history and something else at Cumberlands?
- Yes, many institutions, including Cumberlands, allow students to double-major. Combining history with another field can enhance your expertise and open up diverse career opportunities.
- What are the classes like?
- History classes typically involve lectures, discussions, research assignments, and exams. Courses may cover specific historical periods, themes, or geographic areas, and often include analyzing primary and secondary sources.
- How relevant is a history degree in today’s working world?
- A history degree remains relevant as it provides critical thinking and analytical skills applicable in various professions. It is valued in fields such as education, research, public policy, and cultural preservation.
- How affordable is this program?
- The cost of a history degree can vary widely depending on the institution and location. For example, Cumberlands lists a cost of $9,875, though this can differ based on specific fees and additional expenses. Financial aid and scholarships may be available to help offset costs.
Faculty Experts in History and Political Science
Learn more about the professors you will interact with in the Department of History
- Catherine Ball, JD
- Assistant Professor
- History
- Dr. Michael Spurlock
- Adjunct Professor
- History
- Dr. Chuck Smith
- Professor
- History
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
| Program | Overview | Objectives | Description | |---|---|---|---| | Bachelor of Science in History | Explore the fascinating past of America and the rest of the world! With a Bachelor of Arts in history, you will embark on an adventure to reveal the secrets of people from the past and learn to apply it to make a better future. From the U.S. to the U.K. to the rest of the world, an informed understanding of the culture and power dynamic of different continents is vital to create a future that’s worthwhile. With the knowledge of what happened in years prior, you can forge a new path in life. In your history classes at Cumberlands, you will research wars, influential people, cultural eras and how they impacted the population, and much more! | Deepen knowledge of American and world civilizations. Cultivate appreciation of cultural issues within past and present societies. Strengthen critical thinking, reading comprehension, and research skills. Prepare to pursue history-related fields and/or post-graduate study. Sharpen written and verbal communication skills. | Study history and gain a deep understanding of past events, how they have shaped the present, and how they can impact the future. Learn how to analyze and interpret historical documents, and develop critical thinking skills. Students will also learn how to communicate their findings effectively, both orally and in writing. | | Bachelor of Arts | A Bachelor of Arts requires all the same courses as a Bachelor of Science with the addition of four classes (12 hours) in a foreign language. | All the same courses as a Bachelor of Science with the addition of four classes (12 hours) in a foreign language. | Minor in History | Have you always liked learning about history but wrestled with whether you should turn it into your career or not? Good news: University of the Cumberlands offers the perfect balance so you can learn more about what you love while still pursuing a different degree. When you minor in history, you open the doors for valuable and marketable information to add to your repertoire, all while you chase after your other dreams. | Bachelor of Science with a Major in History & Political Science | Interested in politics but still want to study history? UC's Bachelor of Science in History & Political Science offers you the best of both worlds. No need to double major when we've got everything you need in one degree! Explore the depths of U.S. and world history and learn no navigate the future through a political lens! With classes that dive into the expanse of government and powers, you will equip yourself with a well of invaluable knowledge that you can use in your personal as well as your professional life! Learn about the past, and acquire the skills needed to change the future! | Bachelor of Arts with a Major in History & Political Science | Become a triple threat in the political sphere by studying history, politics, and language all at once! With one degree, you will become a highly sought-after expert in all things history and culture. By combining your knowledge of history and politics with a foreign language through the intermediate level, you open doors for successful careers no matter where you venture.
Outline:
| Program | Content | Structure | Course Schedule | Individual Modules | Module Descriptions | |---|---|---|---|---|---| | Bachelor of Science in History | The program covers a wide range of topics in history, including American history, world history, and the history of specific regions and cultures. | The program is divided into three parts: core courses, intermediate studies courses, and advanced studies courses. | Bachelor of Arts | The program covers a wide range of topics in history, including American history, world history, and the history of specific regions and cultures. | The program is divided into three parts: core courses, intermediate studies courses, and advanced studies courses. | Minor in History | The program covers a wide range of topics in history, including American history, world history, and the history of specific regions and cultures. | The program is divided into two parts: core courses and intermediate studies courses. | Bachelor of Science with a Major in History & Political Science | The program covers a wide range of topics in history and political science, including American history, world history, and the history of specific regions and cultures. | The program is divided into three parts: core courses, intermediate studies courses, and electives. | Bachelor of Arts with a Major in History & Political Science | The program covers a wide range of topics in history and political science, including American history, world history, and the history of specific regions and cultures. | The program is divided into three parts: core courses, intermediate studies courses, and electives.
Assessment:
| Program | Assessment Methods | Assessment Criteria | |---|---|---|
Teaching:
| Program | Teaching Methods | Faculty | Unique Approaches | |---|---|---|---|
Careers:
| Program | Career Paths | Opportunities | Outcomes | |---|---|---|---|
