The history bachelor's degree program introduces students to history broadly, requiring study of ancient, medieval, and modern histories in several geographic contexts before expecting students to specialize. The BA program's diverse course formats-lectures, seminars, and discussions-facilitate student engagement. Students earning their history BA have the opportunity to work closely with faculty experts who specialize in the history of women, the Holocaust, colonial America, the immigrant experience, East Asia, and many other areas of expertise.

The history BA degree program prepares students for careers in business, government, public interest fields, journalism, and other professions. Because training in history emphasizes research, writing, and intellectual problem-solving, graduates can pursue a wide array of careers and some go on to graduate or law school.

GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

• A total of ten courses, consisting of two courses from each of the five foundational areas
• At least one course from Area Five: The Natural and Mathematical Sciences must include a laboratory science component
• No more than two courses may be taken in the same discipline

MAJOR REQUIREMENTS

• 39 credit hours with grades of C or better, including at least 18 credit hours at or above the 300-level
• At least 20 of the 39 credit hours for the major must be taken in residence at American University
• The department recommends that before enrolling in a course at or above the 300-level, students should complete a suitable introductory course or attain equivalent knowledge

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

Required (6-9 credit hours)

• HIST-399 Conversations in History (3)
• HIST-480 Senior Thesis in History I (3) and
• HIST-481 Senior Thesis in History II (3)
• HIST-482 Research Seminar (3)