History College Major Guide 2024

What is a History Major?

Choosing a major in history is not just about diving into the past; it's about understanding the narratives that have shaped our world. It's about developing a keen sense of analysis, critical thinking, and an appreciation for the complexities of human societies throughout time. As a history major, you'll explore various periods, significant events, cultures, and influential figures that have left indelible marks on the fabric of humanity. This field of study not only enhances your knowledge of the past but also equips you with skills highly valued in many professional sectors, including research, writing, argumentation, and the ability to analyze complex information.

Core Courses

The coursework for a history major is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the world's historical events and their impacts on modern society. While specific course offerings can vary by institution, here are some of the top courses typically required for history majors:

• World History: This foundational course covers human history from the earliest civilizations to the contemporary period. It emphasizes major developments in societies, economies, cultures, and political structures around the globe.

• U.S. History: Focusing on the United States, this course explores the nation's history from its indigenous peoples and European colonization through its founding and expansion, to its role in world affairs today.

• European History: This course examines the history of Europe from antiquity to the present day. Topics often include the Roman Empire, Medieval Europe, the Renaissance, the World Wars, and the European Union's formation.

• Historical Methods: A critical course for all history majors, Historical Methods introduces students to the research methods and analytical tools historians use to study the past. This includes primary and secondary sources, historiography, and various theoretical frameworks.

• History of [Specific Region or Country]: Many programs require or recommend taking history courses focused on specific regions or countries outside of the U.S. and Europe to ensure a well-rounded global perspective. These might include courses on Latin America, Africa, Asia, or the Middle East.

• Thematic History Courses: To delve deeper into specific topics or themes in history, students may choose from courses such as the history of religion, war, technology, women, or economic systems. These classes offer focused studies on influential aspects that have shaped human experiences across different periods and places.

In addition to these core courses, many history programs encourage or require internships, research projects, or capstone courses designed to allow students to apply their learning in real-world settings or independent scholarly work.

By pursuing a major in history, you're not just learning about past events; you're gaining a toolkit of skills applicable to careers in education, law, public policy, journalism, museum and archival work, and much more. It's an intellectually rewarding major that opens up a multitude of pathways for future endeavors.

History Major FAQs

What Can You Do With a History Degree?

A history degree opens the doors to numerous career paths due to its broad and versatile nature. Here are some common career options for history majors:

• Education: Many history majors become educators, ranging from elementary school teachers to university professors. This path often requires additional certification or degrees.
• Law: History majors can pursue law school. The skills acquired in a history program, such as critical thinking and argumentation, are highly valued in legal studies.
• Public History: Positions in museums, archives, and historical preservation fall under this category. These roles often involve curating, archiving, and educating the public about historical artifacts and sites.
• Government and Public Service: History majors can work in various governmental roles, including policy analysis, intelligence, and diplomacy.
• Research and Writing: This includes careers in journalism, publishing, and content creation where research skills and the ability to write cohesively are paramount.

What Skills Do You Gain From a History Major?

Studying history cultivates a unique set of skills that are applicable across various fields:

• Critical Thinking: Analyzing historical events and contexts improves your ability to evaluate sources, arguments, and evidence critically.
• Research Skills: You'll learn how to conduct thorough research, sift through information, and identify what's most relevant to your topic.
• Communication: History majors often excel in both written and oral communication, having practiced articulating complex ideas clearly and persuasively.
• Problem-Solving: The ability to analyze past events from multiple perspectives enhances problem-solving skills, allowing for creative solutions to complex issues.
• Cultural Awareness: Studying different cultures and societies throughout history increases understanding and appreciation for diversity.

How Can You Make the Most Out of Your History Major?

To maximize the benefits of your history degree, consider the following strategies:

• Engage in Research Projects: Many programs offer opportunities for undergraduate research. Participating in these projects can deepen your knowledge and hone your research skills.
• Internships: Look for internships in fields that interest you. This could be in education, museums, government agencies, or even media companies.
• Join Clubs and Organizations: University history clubs or national history honor societies offer networking opportunities, resources, and extracurricular learning experiences.
• Study Abroad: If possible, studying abroad can provide firsthand experience with different cultures and historical sites, enriching your understanding of global history.
• Develop Related Skills: Depending on your career interests, consider taking courses or learning skills that complement your history major. For example, digital literacy for archiving or a minor in political science if you're interested in government work.

Do You Need a Graduate Degree?

Whether you need a graduate degree largely depends on your career goals:

• For academic positions or high-level roles in education and research, a Master’s or Ph.D. is often necessary.
• Careers in public history, like museum work or archival management, may require specialized graduate degrees or certifications.
• Many roles outside academia value the transferable skills of a history major and do not require further formal education beyond the bachelor's level.

However, pursuing graduate studies can provide deeper expertise and open up more advanced opportunities in your field of interest.

History Major Resources

Professional Associations

As a history major, joining professional associations can significantly enhance your career prospects and provide valuable networking opportunities. Here are some top organizations you should consider:

• American Historical Association (AHA)
• Organization of American Historians (OAH)
• National Council on Public History (NCPH)
• World History Association (WHA)
• The Historical Society
• Society for History Education (SHE)

Industry Publications

Staying updated with the latest research, discussions, and findings in history is crucial. Here are some publications that can keep you informed:

• The American Historical Review
• Journal of American History
• Public Historian
• Journal of World History
• History Today
• Perspectives on History

Other Resources

Leveraging a variety of resources can help you navigate through your career path more effectively. Here are some additional tools and platforms worth exploring:

• Library Archives: Your university's library archives can be a treasure trove of historical documents, rare books, and other resources.
• Digital History Projects: Platforms like Digital Public Library of America offer access to digital records from numerous institutions across the United States.
• Career.Guide: For tailored advice on navigating your career path in history, including job search strategies and resume tips, visit Career.Guide.
• LinkedIn: Creating a professional LinkedIn profile can help you connect with other history professionals, join history-related groups, and discover job opportunities.
• ResearchGate: A platform like ResearchGate allows you to connect with other researchers in your field, share your own work, and collaborate on projects.

By taking advantage of these professional associations, publications, and resources, you'll be well-equipped to forge a successful career path in the field of history. Remember to stay curious, continue learning, and network as much as possible to open up new opportunities and insights in this fascinating field.