History prepares you to engage a changing world. History is the perfect major for the student who seeks to explore broad interests and who has an inquiring mind.
History majors engage in original research through the Capstone course offered in the senior year. Whether it is interviewing the women who desegregated the university or working at The W archives, you will gain significant research experience. Working in small classes and with one-on-one faculty contact, you will do history, not just study history. History includes opportunities to complete study abroad and internship experiences at local, state, and national museums and archives.
History has the traditional goals of a liberal arts program: to help students to read, write, and think effectively and independently. A history major is not only for those who want to become professional historians; many history majors become teachers, journalists, researchers, lawyers, just to name a few. Along with secondary teacher certification, W history majors may choose to get a public history concentration.
The Mary Lou Peyton Scholarships provide history students with the resources to enhance their studies at The W through awards for tuition, study abroad, and internships. The scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis to incoming freshmen or transfer students. Awards of up to $10,000 per year help history majors with education-related expenses and are renewable for up to four years. Additionally, awards of up to $5,000 help history students with expenses related to study abroad and internship opportunities.
The Department of History, Political Science, and Geography offers nine minors for you to choose from. Expand your studies with American Studies or Pre-Law courses. In the community or around the world, you can find the perfect minor that fits your interests.