The study of history develops the mind and sparks a capacity for critical inquiry. Each student of the past learns the process of historical inquiry. Unsupported generalizations will not suffice for students of history as they become increasingly aware of the complex world in which we live. Because of its breadth of subject matter, along with its training in critical thinking and analysis of data, a history major offers students the critical thinking and communication skills they can apply in many careers, professions, and graduate programs. History provides a solid base from which undergraduates can move into a wide variety of specialized programs in graduate or professional schools, or into a teaching career. Beyond these, the study of history has provided the background for thousands of the nation's most successful lawyers, bankers, government administrators, business executives, authors, performing artists, journalists, ministers, and politicians.

The College of Arts and Sciences also offers a minor in History.