History Minor
Undergrad Majors & Programs Department of History, Philosophy, and Political Science Majors & Minors
History, Philosophy & Political Science
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The history minor is designed for students who enjoy studying the past and are interested in gaining skills in critical thinking, research, and communication. With only one required course, it's flexible — a great complement to majors as diverse as business, physics, and English.
What can I do with this degree?
A history minor can enhance any major field. And as you look to the job market, you'll not only have useful skills, but also a distinctive resume that sets you apart from other candidates (as this 2010 graduate said of his physics major/history minor degree).What skills will I develop?
- Research
- Writing
- Speaking
- Teamwork
- Critical thinking
- How to find patterns in data
- Evaluating sources and arguments
- Understanding causation and context
- Documentary filmmaking
- Podcasting
- Blogging
- Digital preservation
What unique experiences or opportunities will I have?
- Learn about teaching, administration, and research as a departmental teaching assistant
- Working in our archives or digital library
- Partner with a professor on a summer research project, and conduct your own original research in local or digital archives
11
full-time faculty in the department
60%
of students add a second major
Recent News
New Partnership Gives Students Hands-On History Experience
April 28, 2023 | 9 a.m.
New Minors and Endorsements for the College of Arts & Sciences
March 16, 2023 | 2 p.m.
Announcing the Death of Stan Anderson, Professor of Philosophy Emeritus
January 24, 2023 | 10:30 a.m.
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I can honestly say that, as a student, I didn't know my professors' political preferences. Getting such a balanced education from a variety of resources has made me a better consumer of information. From the news I read, the podcasts I listen to, and the conversations I have with others—I am constantly consuming from different/varied credible sources in order to get a well-rounded perspective. This information helps me process and create my own, well-informed opinion.
Dawna Diamon ’09The professors supported my personal development, academic interests, and writing skills. Also, their class content was extremely relevant to the formation of my identity, values, and thinking.
Jordan Nelson ’13The faculty’s ability to disciple me in how to think analytically, empathetically, and creatively has proven to be immensely helpful since my graduation. I am so grateful for the personal attention and challenges I received from my professors as I wrestled with hard questions and reshaped how I applied my faith to the world.
Cody Bishop ’15I think the most distinctive strength of this department was its commitment to teaching all sides of the story. Learning about Political Science from different perspectives and about different perspectives was crucial to my growing worldview at the time.
Marisa Tillman ’16The professors are fantastic. They do a great job delivering interesting and relevant material, providing feedback that fosters growth in academic skill, and building relationships with students. I felt cared about and challenged as I developed as a student, and I felt prepared to go out into the real world.
Kyle Kilgore ’20By studying Western ideas and the role Christianity has played in society, I believe I had a greater depth of understanding than students who studied American politics in a more narrow sense. In the process, I also improved my reasoning and critical thinking skills: the number one thing employers are looking for in an ever-changing labor market.
Ben Olson ’07