History & Political Studies

Make History and Discern Democracy

Filled with fascinating characters and all the elements that make for great entertainment — from drama and romance to war and crime — the history and political studies major prepares you to play your own role in shaping the future through lessons from the past.

Put it in Perspective

Gain a broad understanding of how social, political and cultural forces shape societies, particularly the United States. Develop your written and verbal communication skills to teach others about past and contemporary cultures and political systems in creative and critical ways, including scholarly debate and the use of multiple perspectives.

Use historical and archival resources to participate in preservation projects, including the recording of oral histories, alongside faculty and fellow students. Explore your interests through a self-selected internship and your senior Capstone project, and share your work with others in publications and during presentations.

Graduate prepared for a career in a variety of areas including law, education, historical research, public service, media and communications, museum and public history, and government and non-government organizations, or pursue graduate study.

Choose a Minor

Combine a minor in either history or political studies with any baccalaureate program to add a rich understanding of historical or political influences to your degree in any area of academic interest. Please see the college catalog for specific requirements.