The Major

For the B.A. degree in history, the major must complete History 30 and at least nine upper-division history courses (100 level and above). Four of these nine courses must be designated as advanced (300 level) of which at least two must involve a major research paper. To ensure a broad background in historical study, majors are required to complete two upper-division courses in European history, two upper-division courses in U.S. history and two upper-division courses in non-Western history (Africa, Asia, Latin America, Middle East). At least one of these upper-division courses must focus primarily upon a period prior to 1750; at least one must focus primarily upon a period after 1750.

As a History major, you will take ten courses, including "Europe and the 'World In Transition," a survey that includes readings in primary and secondary sources. Five intermediate courses, which cover more specific geographical areas and time periods, include further reading of historical documents and library research. Four advanced courses focus on specialized subjects which are explored extensively and in depth. These advanced courses, which include peer review, give you the opportunity to engage in compelling individual research or to produce a series of seminar presentations. In choosing your courses, you will develop a broad knowledge of history by taking at least two courses in U.S. history, two in European history, two in non-western history, and one in a period prior to 1750.

Some of the courses offered are:

• European Society in the Middle Ages
• The Indian in American History
• The Third Reich
• African-American History
• Comparative Russian Revolutions
• The Spanish Caribbean
• Social and Cultural History of China and Japan
• Immigration, Ethnicity, and Race in U.S. History
• Era of the American Revolution
• Arab-Israeli Conflict
• The French Revolution and Napoleon

To complete the minor in History, students take the survey, "Europe and the New World In Transition," three intermediate courses, and two advanced courses.

The breadth of interest within the History Department is reflected in its Participation interdisciplinary programs, including American Studies, Asian Studies, Black Studies, Environmental Studies, Latin American and Caribbean Studies, International Studies, Judaic Studies, Russian and East European Studies, Women's Studies, and the University Honors Program.