History Program
By examining human behavior in
the past, the study of history can help us better understand ourselves and
others. As a student of history, you will learn how to gather and analyze
information and present your conclusions in clear, concise language.
An undergraduate degree in
history can lead to a career in teaching at the college or high school level,
law, government, politics, the ministry, museums and libraries, journalism or
editing, historical societies and archives, communications, or a number of
other professions. Many students participate in internships as part of their
program. Students may also minor in history.
The department also offers
one of the few programs in historical communications in the country. This
unique program allows students to combine study of history and courses in
communications such as journalism, editing, radio, or television, and an
internship. This major is particularly suited for students who want to work in
fields such as communications, the media, or journalism.
Degree Requirements: Bachelor of Arts with a major in history
Required courses:
HIS 250 Historian's Craft| An introduction to the basics of historical research and writing. The most important goal of the course is to help students produce a clearly written research paper, with footnotes and a bibliography. A primary source paper and other writing assignments will prepare the students for the achievement of this goal. Class discussion will revolve around analysis of various types of primary sources, secondary sources, journal articles, issues of interpretation, and research methods. The course will also include several research trips to libraries, archives, historical societies, or local history collections. Fulfills general education requirement: Writing Process. Prerequisites: at least one of the following: HIS 103, 104, 105, 125, 126 or 127; or permission of the instructor. 3 credits. |
| Focus on a theme in history such as World War I, the industrial revolution, or the Enlightenment. These topics will be approached from a variety of perspectives (economic, political, or social for example) and from the viewpoint of many national histories. Class meetings will include discussion of course readings, research methods, and the historiography related to the theme of the course. Students will write a research paper on some aspect of the course topic utilizing a variety of primary and secondary sources and present their research to the class. Fulfills general education requirement: Writing Process. Prerequisites: Senior history majors or permission of instructor. 3 credits. |
- Four 3 credit 100 level courses.
- Six electives at the 200 level or above, two must be non-U.S., two must be 300 level, courses can count toward two requirements.