In the History major, we believe that history is not something you know; it’s something you do. We believe that it’s not just about knowing what happened, but about how the knowledge, skills, and perspectives gained by studying history prepare us to solve real-world problems today.
We offer more than 40 courses in U.S., European, Asian, Latin American, and World history, including “Music and Politics in 20th Century Europe,” “Religion, Identity, and Politics in Asia,” “Race, Medicine, and Society,” and “Early Black Women’s History.” Many students complete independent studies and honors projects based on independent research at places like the French National Archives, the University of Birmingham (UK), and the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Whatever path they take, students actively engage in discussion, conduct original research, and present well-crafted arguments. They leave our classes with a broad and deep knowledge of the past and the techniques of the historian. They also graduate with the know-how to succeed in a range of graduate programs and careers. Our graduates work in libraries, archives, museums, and National Parks as well as in fields like law, education, non-profit management, and law enforcement. Our recent graduates have attended top law schools and graduate programs in fields including History, African-American Studies, Museum Studies, Public and International Affairs, theology, and social work.
Our program also offers a History minor, allowing students of various backgrounds and interests to engage with our department, and students can also pursue affiliated programs, including African-American Studies, American Studies, and Gender & Women’s Studies.