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History

At its most basic level History is the study of the past, of the peoples, cultures, economic, and political systems that have, cumulatively, shaped the world in which we live today. Historians also study the way in which the history of the past has been written. Where economic and political history once dominated the field, contemporary history more often focuses on social history, environmental history, microhistory (the intensive study of a small locale, theme, or group), and cultural history.

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Student Profile

The study of History is as relevant to new high school graduates as it is to mid-career professionals. By understanding the peoples and cultures that have created our contemporary world, we are better able to navigate the complexities of our increasingly interconnected and globalized lives. While an interest in history often draws students into our courses, we also offer courses that are relevant to students in political science, business, sustainability studies, and many other areas of the university.

Career Opportunities

Because the skills gained in a History degree, are so wide-ranging, such as research, writing, and communication skills, graduates are employed by almost every type of employer. A Bachelor's degree will help you to gain some entry-level roles, such as research assistant, administrative assistant, or management trainee. Your career opportunities will widen dramatically if you also have a master's degree or doctorate. Possible career paths include:

  • Careers in law, especially if a History degree is combined with political history or political science
  • Industry and commerce, including the financial sector, management and research analytics, sales representation, or banking
  • Careers in communications, particularly advertising, marketing, PR, or journalism
  • Arts administration, editing or marketing
  • Policy advising, planning, evaluation, and policy analysis; local historiography ; professional cultural resources management and historic preservation, library sciences, museum or gallery curation, archival studies, genealogy, and records management.
  • Government administration organization of the delivery of services, coordination and service committee work, report writing, and policy drafting and process.
  • Education of K-12 or university-level

Last Updated: 11-Jun-2015

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