So you want to be a History Major?

As a field of study, history provides the context with which we define our relationship with our local community, our nation, and the world. Without the careful study and analysis of history, the lessons of the past are lost. History offers an ordered account of past experiences and their significance in our present lives. It transforms obscure, contradictory, and confusing events into meaningful occurrences. Analyses of how positive changes have been achieved and how evil has been confronted give us hope to strive for a better future.

The past affects and shapes all of our lives. Its study connects diverse peoples together and provides a measure by which our actions, ideas, goals, and conduct can be evaluated. Knowledge of the past and an understanding of current events enables us to link causes and effects, to perceive what we must maintain or change, and to better analyze political, social, cultural, and economic events to our greatest advantage.

The awareness and incorporation of history into our daily lives fosters personal growth, professional competence, and civic responsibility. Students who undertake study in history develop a frame of reference with which to master other disciplines and build a strong foundation for a career in any field.

Consider supplementing core history requirements with electives that will sharpen logical, critical, and analytic thinking. A general understanding of the mathematical sciences, economics, legal studies, and political science, coupled with the ability to express oneself in both written and spoken English, is critical. One should select subjects that focus on human thought and behavior, such as psychology, anthropology, sociology, and comparative literature. In addition, master the ethical dimensions of life in general through courses in religion, ethics, logic, and philosophy.

Let's look at some of the career possibilities!

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