History, B.A.

Go to information for History/Political Science .

Department Contact:

Dr. Denise Holladay Damico, ddamico@francis.edu, 814-472-3310

Program Description:

The study of history develops an awareness and understanding of the past, a sensitivity to the rich variety of human experience and aspirations and an appreciation for the extraordinary human capacity for good and for evil. Further, it illuminates the present and renders it intelligible by providing both context and direction.

Students of history learn to reason critically and analytically, to synthesize large bodies of information and to write clearly and effectively - skills that are applicable to any job setting. History graduates pursue a wide variety of careers, for example, in communications, business and industry, museum
management, state and national park service and government at every level. The program of study provides the requisite background for graduate study and for the study of law. A professional program is also offered which combines the major with specialized courses in education and leads to secondary teacher certification.

For students wishing to extend their learning experience beyond the classroom, a variety of internship opportunities are available.

Student Learning Outcomes:

History majors will:

• Understand major developments in History.
  • Identify key events, movements, and figures in the history of the U.S., and understand these events, movements, and figures in transnational history.
  • Identify key events, movements, and figures in the history of Europe, and understand these events, movements, and figures in transnational context.
  • Identify key events, movements, and figures in world history and understand these events, movements, and figures in transnational context.
  • Develop a chronological and synthetic paradigm of the past.
• Develop critical thinking skills within the context of the discipline of History.
  • Find and analyze primary source documents.
  • Find and interpret secondary sources.
  • Generate evidence-based original analysis.
• Develop effective writing skills.
  • Utilize methods appropriate to the discipline of History.
  • Implement citation styles consistent with the professional standards of History.

Estimated Completion Time:

Typically four years of full-time study

Capstone Requirement:

Students are required to complete a capstone project as part of the required course HIST 499 History Capstone.

Total Credits Required:

128 credits minimum