History, usually classified as a social science, also retains strong
links with the humanities. Its various approaches – political, economic,
social, and intellectual – require a wide range of different
methods. Courses offered by the history department acquaint students,
both history and non-history majors, with the aims, methods, and results
of historical research. The contemporary trend to expand the study of
history beyond a national and Western framework is reflected in the
offerings of the department. Historical studies provide the background
needed for graduate work in law, journalism, library science, and
history doctoral programs. It is the best major for those planning on
teaching social studies on the secondary level, as well as being an
excellent major for those co-majoring in elementary education. It also
is an excellent major for those planning careers in business, in the
federal government, or in the civil service.
