+ History

128 Williams Hall, 419-372-2030

Like other liberal arts disciplines, history sharpens your ability to think critically, argue logically, conduct research, analyze data, and communicate clearly, both orally and in writing. History is also unique. Because it is both one of the humanities and a social science, it addresses the study of individuals and the broader society, teaching you to evaluate people and issues in their proper context—invaluable skills for any career.

The history department offers a flexible major that prepares students for a variety of careers as well as for graduate and law school. History majors take three introductory courses (chosen from world civilization, U.S. history, and Asian civilizations); complete at least one course in each of these three areas: Europe, the U.S., and other regions, including Asia, Latin America, Africa, and Canada; conduct intensive research in a small seminar designed for majors; and select at least four other history courses from among a wide array of choices. This approach allows students to choose to focus on a specific area or period or to select a broad distribution of courses.

Learning Outcomes

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

• Understand the historical development of their own and other cultures;
• Understand how to think about the past historically by identifying and critiquing historical interpretations and analyzing issues in historical context;
• Be able to select and use evidence from a variety of sources, including primary sources;
• Communicate clearly and persuasively, both orally and in writing;
• Recognize and develop connections between historical issues and life outside the classroom;
• Think critically and argue effectively;
• Examine current issues from a historical perspective.

Major, Bachelor of Arts (33 hours) — minor required — click for 2009-2010 course requirements

Minor (21 hours)

• Nine hours chosen from: HIST 1510, 1520, 1800, 2050, 2060
• 12 hours at the 3000 or 4000 level chosen from at least two of the three categories indicated in the major course requirements, with at least three hours at the 4000 level.