Bachelor's Degree in History
Bachelor of Arts
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History Degree Program Overview
Purdue University Northwest’s history degree program prepares you for careers in education, research, archives, management and government, as well as graduate study. Our talented faculty foster a dynamic classroom environment that brings history alive and encourages you to use your knowledge to solve contemporary problems.
Department of History, Philosophy, Politics and Economics
Earning the History BA will give you the critical thinking, communication and analytical skills employers seek. You can apply for membership in the Phi Alpha Theta national history honor society, which provides opportunities for recognition of excellence and participation in history research conferences.
History Major Curriculum
As a history student, you’ll take a balance of general education courses, College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences core courses and history courses.
PNW’s program meets national standards outlined by the American Historical Association. Special features of the program are its research seminar and internship opportunities. You’ll get the chance to research, write and present your work to a university committee, as well as work in local museums and historical societies.
Begin your history degree with general education core courses along with introductory and survey history classes.
Sample Courses
- HIST 10500 – Survey Of Global History
- HIST 10600 – Introduction To History And Social Studies
Progress in your history studies by learning research methods, writing skills and historiography.
Sample Courses
- HIST 29500 – Research And Writing In History
Deepen your knowledge of history with topical classes in American, European and world history.
Sample Courses
- 30000-level or above US History course – select from the History Electives List
- 30000-level or above non-US History course – select from the History Electives List
- Social Ethics – select from the CHESS College Core List
Conclude your history studies with a research seminar. You’re encouraged to complete internships in regional historical societies and museums.
Sample Courses
- HIST 49500 – Research Seminar In Historical Topics
History Degree Program Highlights
As a History major, you’ll engage with nationally and internationally recognized faculty who create dynamic classroom experiences. You’ll gain practical experience with internship and networking opportunities in museums across Northwest Indiana and Michigan.
History Degree Program Outcomes
Our program enables you to:
- Gain the essential critical thinking skills employers demand
- Learn research, writing and verbal communication skills
- Acquire deep historical knowledge, understand interpretations of the past and make connections to today
- Obtain hands-on experience by working with local museum professionals
History Degree Program Career Paths
A history degree from PNW prepares you for a number of careers in the field, including:
- Law, government service and the not-for-profit sector
- Teaching
- Museums and archives
History Degree Program Beyond the Classroom
You’ll have many opportunities to get involved in on- and off-campus activities, including:
- Phi Alpha Theta national history honor society
- La Porte County Historical Museum and other historical societies and museums across Porter, La Porte, Lake and Starke counties and Southwest Michigan.
History Degree Program Employers
Graduates of this program are employed in organizations and companies like:
- Institute for the International Education of Students
- University of Chicago, Harris School of Public Policy
- La Porte County Historical Museum
History Degree Program Scholarships
In addition to the scholarships available to all PNW applicants, students seeking a history degree may also apply for program-specific scholarship awards, such as:
- Richard Van Orman History Scholarship ($500)
I fell in love with the people in the department and the subject in general. PNW has become a second home for me.
PNW provides a great learning environment for its students and resources for their success.
My history professors help me Power Onward. They all look out for their students and make sure they give their students the best they can offer.
Meet the Faculty
Associate Professor of History
I am currently the Advisor for the Masters Program. Some of my roles include course redesign projects for the Freshman Year Experience and Gateway History courses.
Professor of History
Michael J. Connolly is professor of history in the department of history and philosophy. His teaching and research involve the politics and political economy of nineteenth century America.
Professor of History
Kathleen Tobin is a Professor of History and former Chair of the Department of History, Philosophy, Politics, and Economics. She has also directed the International Affairs Office and served on the Indiana Commission for Higher Education.
Earn a Bachelor's Degree in History at PNW
Purdue University Northwest’s history degree program prepares students for careers as educators, researchers, curators, archivists, entrepreneurs, business managers and in government service.
To see how a bachelor’s degree in history from PNW opens doors, from classrooms to museums, take the next step today!
