History Major or Minor

Program Description

A field that encompasses elements of both the humanities as well as the social sciences, history is a major ideally suited for those who have always been intrigued by the past—and how it can impact the future of humanity. But the study of history is much more than the study of kings, queens, and the dates of bygone battles—it is a study that enriches fields as diverse as music, art, architecture, philosophy, and literature. History majors develop the critical thinking, analytical, research, and writing skills required for success in many different fields, including academics, archival and museum work, research, personnel administration, computing, sales, insurance, real estate, banking, law, and more. In addition, many also pursue graduate and professional studies in a variety of disciplines including archival training, law, public administration, and business.

Flagler's history program is designed to nurture talents in the study of history, to promote historical awareness, and to enhance critical and analytical skills. As a history major, you can expect to graduate prepared for a variety of careers where strong research, organization, and writing skills are needed, as well as for graduate and professional programs—especially in fields such as law. History majors at Flagler enjoy living and studying in a beautiful, historic campus that dates back to 1887. They also benefit from the College's historically significant location in St. Augustine, the nation's oldest city, which offers easy access to the National Park Service, the St. Augustine Historical Society, the Historic St. Augustine Preservation Board, and the Lightner Museum.

Major Requirements

Students majoring in history will take a minimum of 39 semester hours in history. The following courses are required:

HIS 101 - Western Civilization I

HIS 102 - Western Civilization II

HIS 205 - United States History to 1877

HIS 206 - United States History Since 1877

HIS 300 - Historical Methods

HIS 470 - Senior Seminar in History

History majors must take another 21 credit hours, 6 hours of which must be in 400 level courses. Furthermore, history majors are required to take 6 hours of non-western history at the 200 level or above. These courses will provide students with a foundation for knowledge outside of typical US and European fields and encourage them to further study other groups (nations, cultures, and religions) in all fields of academic inquiry. Courses that fulfill this requirement will be designated by the history faculty, with the approval of the Liberal Studies department chair, and marked as such on a checklist for history majors.

As a means of building skills in the various sub-disciplines of history and to explore possible careers, history majors are encouraged to engage in internships. Internships are worth from one to six credits. Majors are also advised to take classes in other academic disciplines that are complementary to their interests in order to reinforce knowledge and professional abilities acquired in history courses. In some cases, minors or double majors would be beneficial. Furthermore, history majors are also strongly encouraged to take at least 6 hours in a foreign language.

Minor Requirements

Students minoring in history must take a minimum of 18 semester hours, including HIS 101 or HIS 102, and HIS 205 or HIS 206, as well as 3 hours at the 400 level.