History

In an ever-changing world, understanding our history becomes all the more necessary. It brings us a sense of the complexity and contingency of events. It provides us with rich and diverse perspectives. It informs us about the prevalence of unintended consequences. The history major provides our students with strong critical skills which are valuable to informed citizenship and for a variety of careers.

The History Department is a diverse group of scholars covering many areas of specialization. We pride ourselves on outstanding teaching. We offer small classes that allow a great deal of individual attention. In addition, our faculty advisors offer close contact and personal attention to each student. The history major is a place to get a "small college" education in a big state university.

Core History Courses

• Four introductory history courses to satisfy requirements for geographical breadth, with a course in each of four groups: world history, history of Asia or Africa or Latin America, European history, and American history. This also satisfies the College requirements for general education in history.
• The Sophomore Seminar (HI 300) – A course to introduce the methods and skills of historical research and writing. Advised to be taken before any advanced electives.
• The Senior Seminar (HI 491) – A small seminar as a capstone research and writing experience for seniors. We offer a variety of focused topics each semester.
• The six remaining courses in the major must be beyond introductory (200) level, with at least four of them being Advanced Electives (400-level classes). Students may choose any courses, and perhaps build an area of focus with their selections.

Free Electives

• The degree plan includes 32 credit hours of Free Electives, letting students select courses to build general knowledge, a specialty, or a Minor.