The study of history provides the best source of information about how people and societies behave. This information is critical to understand and evaluate the forces that have conditioned the human experience, including forms of government, social policy, economic structures, scientific and technological innovation, cultural values, family organization, and theories about human behavior. It helps us understand change and, in particular, the evolution of our own society.
Students majoring in history learn to analyze how and why human values, ideas, and actions change through time. You will evaluate conflicting interpretations of events and communicate your ideas effectively. Your studies will help you develop a sense of historical perspective, assess current events and contemporary debates, and become a thoughtful, informed citizen.
A major in history will prepare you for jobs in law, government, business, and teaching, or for a graduate degree. Other opportunities are in archives, libraries, museums, historical societies, genealogical societies, and private and pubic research agencies.
The Department of History offers three options for history majors, as well as a social studies teaching major <link to social studies teaching article>:
Majors+Options
- Major in History
You’ll study world history and American history and choose other electives in history.
- Major in History with Internship
You’ll study world history and American history, take several public history courses, and complete an internship.
- Pre-Graduate School Major
This program provides a social foundation in language and history. You’ll study world history and American history, choose other electives in history, and complete two years (or the equivalent) of study in a foreign language.
Internship Opportunities
The Department of History offers a teaching internship program, which allows qualified undergraduates to assist faculty members in teaching large sections of history courses.
Non-teaching internships are available in historical museums, preservation offices, archives, galleries, business firms, and with the National Parks Service.
Related Link
Department of History