Bachelor's Degree in History

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Gain a liberal arts education at a world-class research university. Our program is centered on research, with an emphasis on teaching students how to create new historical knowledge —transforming students from consumers of history to critical producers of it. Earn a bachelor's degree in history with our history major, gain an Illinois social studies teaching license with our secondary education track, or add a history minor.

History Major

Chart your own path through history! Our history major empowers you to explore your own interests and passions within history, and gives you the flexibility to pair the major with advanced language study, internships, undergraduate research, and community work.

History Major Requirements

Secondary Education Track

Prepare for your future career in social studies education. The main difference between this track and the General History Major is that this track is designed to provide you with an Illinois social studies teaching license (9th-12th grade). The track focuses on the development of historical skills while providing you with robust educational experience within the classroom and the pedagogical training and support. You are not limited to a social studies education and can seek out additional endorsements for your license. 

Secondary Ed Requirements

History + Data Science Major

Harness the power of data science to explore history! In our program you'll apply a historian's training and insights to data and become prepared for a wide variety of data-informed careers. Requires 36 hours of history coursework and 29-30 hours of data science coursework.

History + DS Requirements

History Minor

Students pursuing a history minor benefit from small class sizes, explore fascinating and challenging historical questions and problems, and improve their research and writing skills. The history minor requires you to complete 18 hours of coursework. 

Minor Requirements

Academic Advising

Don't try to navigate college alone! Speak with our academic advisor to create an individual plan designed to achieve your academic and professional goals. We'll help you find the path that's perfect for you. 

Schedule and Appointment

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What can you do with a degree in history?

 

The skills you gain with a degree in history are highly transferrable across a range of industries and professions. Our alumni have outstanding careers spanning politics, education, law, public service, technology, business, and more. 

97% of history majors who graduated between 2024-2025 secured their first destination within six months of commencement.