BA in History

Overview

The study of history is a distinctive and vital part of a well-rounded liberal arts education. It is essential to understanding the complex interplay of continuity and changes over space and time; to explaining the development and decline of cultures, institutions and ideas; to illuminating not only how past worlds become our present but also what is possible for our future. History provides concrete and sometimes sobering lessons, but it is also a source of inspiration and hope.

The Department of History at Minnesota is a great place to pursue the study of the past. We are unusual in the range and variety of courses we offer, from the ancient and medieval to the history of the recent past, all around the globe. We also offer many ways to learn outside the classroom through hands-on research opportunities, internships, foreign study, and service-learning. As a history major, you'll acquire important critical analysis, research, and writing skills that are applicable across all disciplines and in a variety of professions. As a major, minor, or student in a single course, the historical study will give you the skills, context, and perspective you need in order to think about and understand ourselves and our world.

As a history major, you'll identify an area of concentration where you'll dig deeper into historical questions through primary source analysis with faculty mentors to guide your intellectual development.

Learn more about declaring a history major and participating as an honors student.

Flexible and Great for Double Majors

One of the hallmarks of the history major is its great flexibility and vast course offerings. Our faculty and academic advisor work closely with you to tailor your degree to your interests and goals. For any questions about how the history major can work for you, speak with the department’s academic advisor.

Due to the flexibility of the history major and the critical skills gained through historical inquiry, many students combine a history major with other majors. History majors also have great success entering a variety of graduate and professional school programs. Whether you are interested in a career in law, medicine, business, or anything in between, a BA in history is an excellent foundation for any career.

Full Requirements