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As a History major at ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ, learn how to interpret and analyze historical sources in the search for truth, greater understanding and answers to today’s most pressing questions.

Program Overview

History is more than what’s written in dusty textbooks. It’s a first-person account passed down from a 94-year-old World War II veteran, a new presidential biography based on recently discovered documents, and the ongoing process of research and analysis.

As an associate or bachelor’s degree student in History at ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ, you will gain a broad understanding of the major forces and events of U.S. and world history, the diversity of historical perspectives, and the research and analytical methods to make sense of it all.

You’ll study the cultural, social, political, economic and religious influences on human development. You’ll explore a variety of primary and secondary sources (including original documents, film, music and visual images) and build information literacy skills in order to recognize, evaluate and critique the evidence on which historical narratives are based. You’ll also take hands-on public and digital history courses, examining how historians construct history and present it for various audiences. And you’ll build rhetorical, analytical and communication skills as you learn how to draw lessons from the past to address contemporary problems.

Core courses and electives include:

  • Making History
  • Reading World Revolutions
  • Cold War America: Culture and Conflicts
  • The Holocaust in History and Memory
  • Globalization in History
  • Modern Latin America and the Caribbean
  • History of Gender and Sexuality

Students majoring in History can take part in Dean’s Humanities in Action Initiative. Through Humanities in Action, students can gain hands-on-experience, career-readiness, make professional connections, and they learn about the importance of the humanities in civic engagement. Learn more about Humanities in Action | ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ.

ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ professor working with a student

School of Liberal Arts Faculty

Gain valuable insights from our School of Liberal Arts faculty, who are here to help you every step of the way.

Uniquely Dean

ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ professor working with two students. Explore local history and prepare for your future career through the ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ History program.
  • Complete a for-credit internship with a Boston-area museum or historical society. Our students have interned with the , , , and (Washington, D.C. and Rhode Island, District 2).
  • Engage with professors and classmates in small, discussion-based classes and seminars.
  • Choose a topic that you’re passionate about and dive deeply into original research for a senior capstone project.
  • Build your career skills and portfolio by publishing your work in digital history and creating exhibitions in public history.
  • Learn methods and techniques of bringing academic history to a public audience through a variety of media.
  • ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ is the home base for the , where you can pursue internships and other learning opportunities.
  • Participate in the video series, by the New England Journal of History.
  • Attend the History Majors Reception at the to enjoy a Dean History presentation, refreshments and mingling with faculty, staff and students.
  • Dig into history right here on campus. Learn more about the history of ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ leadership.
  • You will have the opportunity to visit the America's first public library, the , located next to campus!
  • Did you know that Boston is just 30 minutes away from Dean? You can even take a short walk from campus right to the Franklin/ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ stop and hop on the . Having Boston at your fingertips is great, especially for a history buff. Learn about historical sites to check out on a historical adventure in Boston.

Beyond the Classroom

ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ students studying on campus At Dean, you’ll bring history to life and develop career skills in everything you do.

Every History student has the opportunity to complete a for-credit internship with a local or regional museum, historical society, library or nonprofit organization. In addition, bachelor’s degree candidates complete a detailed senior capstone project involving extensive research and the opportunity to make valuable professional connections.

You’ll also participate in co-curricular and experiential learning opportunities regularly. Our recent field trips include the , , , and .Ìý

When you graduate, you’ll be prepared for a career in public history, digital humanities, museum work, historical societies, archival work or education. The research and writing skills developed in this major will also prepare you for many fields of employment, including government, the business world, journalism, media and law. A degree in History is also an excellent foundation for further study, including master’s programs in history or political science, law school, journalism school, film school and more. It all starts at Dean.Ìý

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