History Major

Program Overview

The History Major at the University of New Hampshire offers a comprehensive curriculum that develops students' historical knowledge, analytical skills, and empathy. Through a combination of required and elective courses, students gain a deep understanding of diverse historical periods and perspectives. The program emphasizes critical thinking, research, and writing, preparing graduates for careers in various fields, including education, research, law, journalism, and government.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview: The History Major at the University of New Hampshire (UNH) provides students with analytical and communication skills essential for success in various workplaces and informed citizenship.
The program encompasses a diverse range of historical topics, from the Roman Empire to modern U.S. foreign policy.
• Objectives: By completing the History major, students are expected to:
• Develop a substantial historical knowledge base with depth and breadth, encompassing diverse time periods and geographical locations.
• Master historical methods, including gathering, interpreting, and synthesizing evidence to construct and evaluate historical arguments.
• Cultivate empathy for people in their historical contexts, appreciating their unique experiences and perspectives.
• Recognize the provisional nature of historical knowledge, welcoming diverse interpretations and embracing ambiguity.
• Utilize historical knowledge and critical thinking to engage with contemporary issues, promoting informed citizenship and deliberation.
• Description: The History major curriculum includes:
• An introductory seminar on historical writing and analysis (HIST 500).
• A capstone senior colloquium that allows students to conduct in-depth research (HIST 797).
• A combination of required and elective courses that provide specialization and broaden students' historical perspectives.

Outline:

• Program Structure:
• 10 four-credit history courses (or equivalents), including:
• HIST 500 (Introduction to Historical Thinking)

Assessment:

• Assessment Methods and Criteria: The program utilizes various assessment methods to evaluate student learning:
• Coursework assignments
• Exams and quizzes
• Research projects
• Historical analysis essays
• Class participation
• Grading: Students must receive a minimum of a C in HIST 500 and a C- or higher in the remaining nine history courses.
• Major GPA: Students must maintain a 2.0 or better GPA in all history courses.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program employs various teaching methods:
• Lectures and discussions
• Source analysis
• Historical research training
• Writing workshops
• Guest lectures and workshops
• Faculty: The program is taught by a team of highly qualified faculty members with expertise in various historical fields.
Their research interests and areas of specialization are not specified in the context.
• Unique Approaches: The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking skills and an understanding of historical perspectives through:
• Close examination of primary and secondary sources
• Active engagement in historical debates and interpretations
• Exploration of diverse historical narratives

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: Graduates with a History major from UNH pursue a wide range of careers, including:
• History teachers
• Researchers and historians
• Archivists and museum professionals
• Lawyers and judges
• Journalists and writers
• Business professionals
• Government employees
• International relations specialists
• Non-profit administrators
• Public historians
• Opportunities and Outcomes: The History major provides a strong foundation for further education in history, law, and other fields.
Graduates are equipped with skills in critical analysis, research, writing, and communication, which are highly valued in various professions.