History, B.A.

Go to information for History/Political Science .

Department Contact:

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

Program Description:

Studying History encourages “respect for the uniqueness of the individual person,” drawing upon  the understanding that History is “people making choices and those choices making a difference.” If knowledge is power, studying the past cultivates “a humble and generous attitude toward learning.” At Saint Francis University, our History curriculum encourages “Solidarity and Reconciliation” through careful study of the categories of race, class, gender, and place, in the U.S., Europe, and throughout the world, emphasizing the ways in which we form “a Community that transcends particular nations and cultures.” History students 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, including teaching, the law, archival and museum work, and a variety of careers in business, public service, and government at every level. Internship and study abroad experiences are available and highly recommended. 

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