Program Overview

Civil War Era Studies

Certificate Overview

The certificate in Civil War Era Studies is designed for students who desire a deeper understanding of the antebellum period, the Civil War, Reconstruction, the complexities of the conflict’s commemorative landscape, and modern methods of interpreting Civil War sites.

Learning Outcomes

Students who successfully complete the Certificate in Civil War Era Studies will be able to:

1. Explain the causes, events, decisions, personalities, remembrance, and legacy of the Civil War Era.
2. Conduct original research and apply historical methods.
3. Articulate the various interpretive challenges in Civil War era history.
4. Appropriately use modern methods, approaches, and techniques necessary to convey a balanced perspective of the Civil War era.

Unique Opportunities for Students

Students enrolled in Shenandoah University’s History program, either as history majors, minors, and/or in the Certificate in Civil War Era Studies, have access to an array of unique and varied opportunities, including:

• Conducting original research to support educational and interpretive efforts at Cool Spring
• Interacting with some of the world’s most distinguished Civil War era scholars
• Collaborating on various projects with the director
• Applying for the prestigious Dr. David and Mrs. Melanie Miles McCormick Civil War Institute Summer Fellowship, which supports summer research as part of the College of Arts and Sciences Summer Scholars program

McCormick Civil War Institute

The McCormick Civil War Institute (MCWI) at Shenandoah University produces the university’s first academic, peer-reviewed journal; offers a wide variety of community conferences and lectures related to the war; and provides students with practical, hands-on learning experiences related to the Civil War in the Shenandoah Valley, which the war affected incessantly. Charged with historical interpretation efforts at Shenandoah University’s River Campus at Cool Spring Battlefield, students working with the MCWI can have an almost lab-like experience in the study of history, as they lead tours, create and expand exhibits, and conduct research.

Program Location

• Winchester Main Campus

Classes

Courses Required for the Certificate in Civil War Era Studies:

• HIST 103 (US History I) - 3 credits
• HIST 305 (Civil War & Reconstruction) - 3 credits
• HIST 308 (Civil War in Memory & Popular Culture) - 3 credits
• HIST 309 (Interpreting Civil War Historic Sites) - 3 credits

Application Information

Shenandoah University works on rolling admissions and accepts applications throughout the year. Applications are reviewed individually and holistically.

Additional Links

• History
  • Civil War Era Studies
  • History & Documentary Film Certificate
  • History & Immersive Technology Certificate
  • Public History