History Major (BA)
HCU’s History Degree
As a core discipline within the liberal arts, the study of humanity鈥檚 heritage provides a classic mode of useful learning venues for developing well-trained minds. By examining primary evidence, formulating analytical interpretations, devising rigorous arguments, and anticipating possible rebuttals, our students learn firsthand the 鈥渉istorian鈥檚 craft鈥� of reading widely, thinking deeply, reasoning persuasively and communicating clearly. Whether enrolled in Western Civilization surveys or upper-level honors courses, as a history major at HCU, you will experience a 鈥渓aboratory of learning鈥� that is foundational, formational, and inspirational 鈥� a threefold benefits package of wisdom that will last a lifetime.
Overview of History Program
First, pursuing fundamental historical knowledge empowers and enlightens the learner while historical ignorance gradually results in a 鈥渃lueless鈥� citizenry. Thomas Jefferson, the primary author of the Declaration of Independence and the third US President, argued for vigilance in safeguarding knowledge because 鈥渂eing [both] free and ignorant鈥�[1]聽 is not possible 鈥� we are either one or the other. Thus, knowing the human story and delving into the nation鈥檚 archives helps 鈥渋noculate鈥� us from the twin dangers of cultural illiteracy and historical amnesia.
In addition, history鈥檚 focus on real people facing authentic life experiences compels us to consider how an individual鈥檚 character qualities (values, virtues and moral compass), along with other cultural mores of bygone eras, influenced his or her actions. Assessing the ways past personalities handled unexpected power, juggled ethical issues, and wrestled with difficult decisions while facing private or known crises, can still help shape our own attitudes, judgments and reactions toward personal or public modern-day dilemmas. America鈥檚 record is replete with notable leaders and less-famous figures who lived well and wisely by making crucial choices based on their 鈥渟acred honor鈥� rather than fame or personal gain.
And finally, historical chronicles often highlight individual human and national achievements. Learning more about those who lived before us and admiring their nation-building deeds should instill within us a deeper respect for them and greater gratitude for their feats. It should also encourage us to keep moving forward through our own times of difficulties. By noting how their perseverance and selfless sense of duty to community and country helped them overcome great obstacles and grim circumstances, we pay homage to their memory by being diligent and vigilant in the here and now. The study of history isn鈥檛 to learn about the past. We study these things to understand the present, offer solutions and change the world.
What You Can Do With a Degree in History
In learning how the past is always present (history is everywhere and everything has a history), our majors gain valuable life skills in information-gathering, data-sequencing, fact-checking, and problem-solving, along with a renewed sense of personal fulfillment and accomplishment. This equips them for successful careers in education, law, business, communications and numerous other professions.
Here are some testimonials from HCU graduates about the ongoing popularity and versatility of earning a BA in History:
鈥淎t HCU, I knew my History professors cared about me as a person. It was through their encouragement and teaching that I was able to better myself both mentally and spiritually. I continue to cherish the time I spent as a History major there. ”
-Ryan Cranston, 2011, President of Phi Alpha Theta, 2010 鈥� 2011
鈥淎s a history major, I found the curriculum pleasantly challenging and the faculty friendly and helpful. HCU is the living proof that school can be fun. ”
-Manfred Lucas, 2013, Honors College, President of Phi Alpha Theta, 2011 鈥� 2013
Jobs for History Majors
- teaching and academia
- government and politics
- law
- business
- the arts
- writing and journalism
You will also have a strong foundation for further study in graduate school. Our students have presented major research papers, earned graduate degrees from Oxford and headed for professional training in law school.
Students have the opportunity to join the campus History Club and to qualify for the 聽Honor Society.
History Minor
For non-History majors looking to supplement their with historical reasoning and research skills, we offer a 12-hour minor in History. A combination of historical knowledge and analytical ability proves particularly valuable for students majoring in law, business, education, journalism and other disciplines where understanding human behavior and societal development is beneficial.
Admissions and Aid
If you鈥檙e ready for a fulfilling journey in art history, 麻豆视频 welcomes you to apply. Explore next steps:
- Get to know HCU: Dive deep into what makes us unique.
- Gain admissions clarity: Learn the application process and timeline.
- Tuition and financial aid: Review federal aid, scholarships, and essential deadlines.
Become a History Major at 麻豆视频
