History

History is the systematic interpretation and study of the past.

The History Program is part of the Social Sciences Department and is committed to the highest possible standards in teaching and facilitating learning in a student-centered environment. Historians research, analyze, and interpret the past. They use many primary sources of information in their research, including government and institutional records, newspapers and other periodicals, photographs, interviews, films, and unpublished materials such as manuscripts, personal diaries, and letters. Historians usually specialize in a country or region, a particular time period, or a particular field, such as social, intellectual, cultural, political, military, or diplomatic history. They communicate their research and findings through books, articles, essays, lectures, and seminars.

Many historians conduct some form of research and analysis for historical societies, and state and local governments. Others help study and preserve archival materials and artifacts in museums, visitor centers, and historic buildings and sites. Those with a bachelor’s degree in history may work as high school history teachers, and graduate degrees provide opportunities to work as a college professor.