History

History offers a compelling vision of human activity and capability—from the heights of human creativity and compassion, to the depths of cruelty. It offers a unique analytical perspective on the world, too, because it brings to bear a comprehensive view that social science disciplines seldom match. To understand history, we need to know about culture, religion, art, as well as politics and war. The study of history permits a breadth of knowledge, an understanding of trends, and many other intellectual perspectives that allow an individual to better comprehend today’s complex world.
Degree Types: Bachelor of Arts, Minor
History BA

Explore Interests Related to History

Explores historical patterns and societal change. Equips students to contextualize AI development, assess its impact over time, and contribute to projects focused on digital preservation and knowledge systems.

Explores historical events, trends, and cultural movements. Equips students to understand the roots of societal change, inform media storytelling, and contribute to preserving and interpreting cultural heritage.

Explores historical patterns of inequality and reform. Prepares students to apply historical insights to contemporary justice issues, advocate for equitable policies, and preserve marginalized narratives.

Studies past events, movements, and systemic injustices to understand their impact on current social issues. Equips students to inform policy, educate communities, or work in historical preservation with a justice-oriented focus.

Investigates historical trends and environmental changes over time. Prepares students to analyze the impact of human activity on the planet and contribute to policies informed by historical lessons.

Studies historical events, cultural movements, and global trends. Equips students to understand the past's influence on current international relations and contribute to preserving and interpreting global heritage through media and storytelling.

Degree Options

  • Political Science
  • Classics
  • Economics
  • Anthropology
  • English

About the Program

You might like this program if…

  • You want to learn to assess the credibility of sources; in today’s media-rich environment, you will put this skill to work every day.
  • You want to gain a deeper understanding of complex causalities; as a history student you will practice thinking about the significance of multiple, often interlinking factors and the way they contribute to complex events.
  • You’re interested in pursuing a career in law, business, or education.
  • Verbal and Written Communication
  • Attention to Detail and Organizational Skills
  • Mediation and Conflict Resolution
  • Research Skills
  • Interpersonal Skills

Coursework

  • Military History
  • American History, Medieval History
  • Ancient History
  • History of Science and Tech

Out-of-Classroom Experiences

  • Deloitte
  • Foreign Policy Research Institute
  • U.S. Department of the Treasury
  • Penn State University Libraries
  • U.S. Congress
  • Lemont Village Association
  • Centre County Historical Society
  • U.S. Department of State
France
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Israel
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Italy
Students in CAMS/HIST 199 Roman Cities at Piazzale Michelangelo in Florence, Italy in June 2022
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Career Paths

  • Law school
  • Medical school
  • Grad school to study history, archaeology, biomedical sciences, Viking and Medieval Norse studies, classics, cinema and media studies, classical languages and literature, paralegal, European studies, public affairs, international affairs, health advocacy, higher education administration, philosophy, museum studies, political science, public policy, and theology
  • Special Projects Librarian
  • Archivist or Researcher
  • Public Policy Strategist
  • Government Relations Coordinator
  • Grants Specialist
  • Legislative Director
  • Lawyer
  • Teacher
Communications, Legal, Management, Marketing, Sales, Service (Teach for America), Teaching
  • Vanguard
  • Deloitte
  • U.S. Army
  • Sirius XM
  • Mayo Clinic
  • Salesforce
  • National Park Service
  • Booz Allen Hamilton
  • Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
  • Library of Congress
  • U.S. Department of State

Have questions about this program?

This program is housed 

in the Department of History 
at Penn State University Park and Penn State World Campus.
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CURRENT Students
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