History, Minor

History training sharpens skills such as critical thinking, logical argumentation, archival research, data analysis, oral communication, and written communication. These skills are invaluable for a meaningful and productive life beyond college. The study of history also integrates different modes of thinking: students examine complex issues that shape societies and institutions (the social sciences), as well as the ways individuals and groups understand their experience through culture and ideas (the humanities). Students learn to study the past from many approaches and to relate their findings in formats geared toward a variety of audiences. Graduates pursue a wide range of careers in fields such as business, education, government, diplomacy, law, non-profit organizations, and cultural heritage institutions.

Students start with our signature course for history majors, followed by three introductory courses that emphasize the breadth and diversity of the human experience. Next, students take electives in five themes that include several world regions and periods (ancient to present): local and public history, social and cultural history, war and diplomacy, political and economic history, and transnational history. In the final year students concentrate on a specific theme and develop a sophisticated research project in the senior seminar. As they progress, students receive skills-based training specific to the discipline of history, and they learn how to apply these skills to professional contexts through internships and other experiential learning opportunities.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the baccalaureate degree, students in history are expected to:

• Evaluate core assumptions about historical thinking and the discipline of history;
• Apply historical skills and knowledge to a variety of career options;
• Produce historical scholarship integrating ethical and civic values, as well as professional standards;
• Analyze historical events and processes;
• Compose historical narratives integrating varied modes of expression.