Department of History

The bachelor’s degree program in History may be completed in three or four years. It offers undergraduates a broad liberal arts foundation that deepens their knowledge and understanding of the world, stimulates effective participation in contemporary society, and cultivates deep-thinking skills required for success in a wide range of employment areas or graduate study. The rewards of historical study include a disciplined intellect, a well-furnished imagination, and a recognition of both the unity and diversity of the human experience.

Coursework for the major and minor in History includes surveys and methodology courses, plus electives in American, European, and World history. Effective Fall 2027, History majors will be able to choose among three concentrations: History Teaching, Historical Studies, and Public History. The first option prepares future teachers. The second option prepares students to engage with a wide array of careers. The third option focuses on careers in public-facing institutions like museums, libraries, and archives, and includes a professionalizing internship. The curriculum also features interdisciplinary coursework from partnering departments across campus. Relatively small class sizes enable students to work one-on-one with talented and dedicated faculty members. 

The History minor consists of 21 credits, including 12 credits of electives. It pairs well with almost any major program at Indiana State, enhancing a student’s career preparation in a wide array of fields.

We actively cooperate with other departments in offering cross-listed courses in Political Science, Gender Studies​, and other relevant program majors, minors, or concentrations. History majors and minors are also encouraged to consider the University's Honors Program and study abroad programs, which range from summer programs to a single semester or full academic year in dozens of countries. A number of activities and organizations are available, offering opportunities to interact with other students and professionals, including the History Club and Phi Alpha Theta (the National Honor Society in History).

Indiana State University currently offers a Bachelor of Science in Social Studies Education (SSE) with specializations in Economics, Geography, Government, History, Psychology, or Sociology. In addition to the SSE curriculum, students must also complete a professional secondary education sequence in the School of Education's Department of Curriculum, Instruction, and Media Technology.

Effective Fall 2027, the Social Studies Education program will transition to a choice between History Teaching (housed in the Department of History) and Government and Citizenship Teaching (housed in the Department of Political Science). 

The African and African American Studies Minor introduces students to the histories and intellectual traditions that have shaped African and African American cultures. Through advanced research, students develop critical thinking and cultural awareness for careers in public service, education, community engagement, international affairs, and leadership roles. Many courses in this minor also fulfill university general education requirements. 

History is a highly regarded discipline among leaders in the public and private sectors for preparing students for analytical and interpretive work in a wide variety of careers. Equally important, a History education enriches students’ lives by imparting to them an appreciation for the great richness and diversity of the global world we live in today. 

You may wonder how writing papers about ancient Egypt can help you get a job in today's high-tech world. The fact is that many large corporations prefer to hire History and other liberal arts graduates for management positions. Why? Because liberal arts majors learn intellectual and communication skills that will serve them throughout their careers. The History major gives you a sound background for careers as varied as business, law, journalism, teaching, government service, writing, librarianship, publishing, historical research, public history, or museum work.