History

 
Overview
The Division of Social Sciences offers a bachelors degree program in history which is designed to enhance student understanding of the many eras of human, social and cultural heritage.

 

What skills and abilities do I need to excel in this degree?
Reading and writing skills are essential to success in this field.

 

What skills can I expect to develop through this degree?
History teaches not only critical thinking, and oral and written communications skills, but research skills and the ability to evaluate data and present evidence in a logical manner.

 

What I will learn
Majors in History will learn to evaluate and present historical evidence. Majors will be able to differentiate and effectively use both primary and secondary sources of historical evidence. Majors will effectively present their evidence in oral and written formats. Majors will develop advanced skills in interpreting historical information and will work with a broad range of theoretical perspectives. Majors will be able to synthesize different types of evidence and theoretical approaches into a coherent whole. Majors will understand how historical information sheds light on the development of human society and culture. Majors will understand the origins and development of government.
What opportunities are there for internships or other hands-on learning experiences?
The department offers students the option to take courses in Internships and Special Problems. The Internship experience is designed to give the student practical experience working in a government or non-profit history-connected job. The Special Problem course is meant to allow students to pursue subjects of personal interest not offered or not covered in regular course work.

 

What are some possible entry-level careers with a degree in this field?
As a major, history prepares students for entry into careers in business management, interest group advocacy, consultancy, and public service at the national, state or local levels. The history major is often used as the preliminary step toward professional training in the law, library science, theology or graduate study in history. The history emphasis on critical reading skills and clear oral expression are sought after in all areas of industry, commerce, government, and academics.

 

What are some CMU graduates with this degree doing?
CMU History grads are currently working in fields ranging from law and politics to secondary education, higher education, banking and business.

 

Other items to note
The department encourages history majors to pursue original research in topics of local, state, or national scope, that are of great interest to themselves. Seniors are encouraged to take successful senior thesis papers and convert them into a submission for publication in a local, regional or national publication.

 

 

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