History (BA.HIS)

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Upon completion of the History major, students will be able to demonstrate:

1. A broad and deep store of knowledge of human history, ancient to present, as well as:

knowledge of chronology, place, and significance;
mastery of the various theories, methodologies, and interpretations current in the history profession;
historical empathy;
understanding the role of the past in shaping current events and the richness of the past as a source for meeting contemporary challenges.

2. The ability to conduct and present both orally and in writing quality research that:

poses a significant historical question;
identifies, evaluates, contextualizes, and utilizes a wide variety of relevant primary and secondary sources;
articulates a clear thesis statement;
argues effectively by employing and properly citing evidence in support of a thesis;
explains the historical significance of the research.

3. The capacity to be teachers, and/or attend graduate school, and/or embark upon history-related careers.

I. Complete the following History courses (18 cr):

HIS 1125 - The Ancient World 3 cr
HIS 1135 - Global History 3 cr
HIS 1215 - Survey of Early U.S. History 3 cr
HIS 1225 - Survey of Modern U.S. History 3 cr
HIS 4601 - History Research Seminar 3 cr
HIS 4602 - History Thesis Seminar 3 cr

II. Complete 18 credits of History (HIS) electives, of which as least 9 credits must be in regions other than the United States or Europe (18 cr)

Note: at least 9 credits of History courses must be at the 3000 level.

III. Complete 9 credits in the Social Sciences (9 cr):

Economics: 3 cr
Geography: 3 cr
Political Science: 3 cr

(Total credits required for the major: 45)

And complete the University's Gen Ed requirements

Review the Gen Ed requirements.

Note

Students who plan to be secondary Social Studies teachers should take ECO 3080 - Foundations of Economics for Secondary Educators .

It is strongly recommended that History majors also complete either an academic minor, or 12 credits in another academic discipline chosen in consultation with the advisor, or education licensure requirements; and demonstrate the ability to read a foreign language.

Students with either second majors, or wishing to be licensed to teach in elementary or secondary schools, must have an advisor from both sponsoring departments.

All courses taken to fulfill the History major requirements may also be used to fulfill the general education and academic minor requirements.

Motivated students should consider taking the program in Honors History.

Law Degree (CU/VLS 3+2)

This major participates in the 3+2 program with Vermont Law School, in which highly-focused students can earn a Bachelor's degree in just three years at CU and a Juris Doctor (JD) degree in just two years at VLS.

For details, see the Law Degree page .