Bachelor of Arts in History (Day)

Courses in history are designed to help students develop a sense of historical perspective so that they can appreciate their rich cultural heritage and understand contemporary world problems. Civilization in Western Perspective I and II surveys the historical, political, social, and cultural movements and social events of the world from ancient times to the new globalism. Other history courses range from a survey of United States history to more specialized courses in United States Constitutional History,  modern China, modern Russia, modern Greece, Adolf Hitler and the Third Reich, and Global Transformation.

The spectrum of courses in history offers great breadth not only in chronology, but also in regional diversity. The program is committed to developing students’ awareness of and expertise in the historical roots of the global challenges facing the world today. Similarly, in keeping with the College’s mission, the program is committed to developing students’ awareness and appreciation of the rich Catholic Christian tradition which has shaped western civilization and the students’ own continuing responsibility within that tradition.

In Historian’s Tools, the methodology course and beyond, the history major provides the academic background and the analytical and writing skills appropriate for positions in both the public and private sector. The major also provides an excellent preparation for graduate level or professional study.

Student Learning Outcomes

Graduating majors in history should be able to:

• Demonstrate a mastery of the principles of scholarly research and writing in history to a level expected of baccalaureate work;
• Demonstrate a knowledge of both classic and current historiography;
• Explain major historical developments in oral presentations, but also in a significant research essay;
• Relate past events to the present;
• Demonstrate a familiarity with various cultures;
• Appreciate the historical inter-relationship of issues of Catholic social teaching with political, economic, and cultural developments.

Assessment

Proficiency in subject knowledge is assessed through class discussion, examinations, research papers and oral reports, capstone experiences, and internships.