History
Program Overview
Through attention to fact and detail, history majors gain extensive skill in the areas of reading, writing, research, documentation, argumentation, and critical analysis. Students will study the history of the United States, Europe, and broader global subjects. Alongside these subjects, students will also have the opportunity to explore the history of Christianity and other major world religions.
Earning a degree in history allows the graduate to pursue professional careers in teaching, government, and many other fields. Students will be prepared to attend graduate school in a broad range of disciplines, including seminary, as the skills of the historian are applicable to many fields. Due to the depth of study, graduates demonstrate a complete grasp on the above mentioned abilities and topics, allowing them to choose from an array of jobs, ranging from professor or lawyer to a museum curator.
“BUT SEEK THE WELFARE OF THE CITY WHERE I HAVE SENT YOU INTO EXILE, AND PRAY TO THE LORD ON ITS BEHALF, FOR IN ITS WELFARE YOU WILL FIND YOUR WELFARE.” – JEREMIAH 29:7
Required Courses
Common Courses
- The Historian’s Craft
- Selected Topics in Historiography
- Senior Seminar
Specialized Courses (28-30 credits)
- Three courses in U.S. History (9 credits)
- Two courses in European History (6 credits)
- Five courses from History electives (13-15 credits; at least 6 units must be from upper-division courses)
ELECTIVE CREDITS (35-37)
Program Learning Outcomes
Students will graduate with the ability to:
- Demonstrate critical thinking and reading skills by analyzing, synthesizing and interpreting historical sources.
- Apply information literacy skills and various methodologies to conduct historical research.
- Employ effective oral and written communication skills consistent with professional standards.
- Appreciate the people, cultures, and nations of the world through consideration of their social and historical development.
- Develop and grow in Christian character and servant leadership through integration of Christian faith and the discipline of history.
Internship & Career Opportunities
- Historian
- Archivist
- Museum Curator
- Teacher/Professor
- Research Analyst
- Writer/Author
- Archival Assistant
- Historical Consultant
- Cultural Resource Manager
- Librarian
- Preservationist
- Journalist
- Government Analyst
- Public Policy Analyst
- Tour Guide
- Genealogist
- Editor
- Documentary Filmmaker
- Archaeologist
- Heritage Manager
“Simpson University allowed for me to explore my interests while also having a welcoming community to support me.”
Akira Davies
History – Class of 2027
History Minor
The History minor consists of 21 credits from courses prefixed “HIST,” HUMA 1450, or HUMA 1460. At least 12 of those credits must be upper division (3000 and 4000 levels).
Total Credits (21)
MEET THE FACULTY
Dr. Timothy Orr
Associate Professor of History
Director of Simpson Scholars
Department Chair of the History and Political Science Department
