Why Study History?
History is an all-encompassing discipline that allows students to explore and understand a vast variety of subjects, events and processes.
History students hone skills that are applicable to a wide variety of professional pursuits and make us better citizens of the world.
Knowledge and Understanding
History students can study politics, the economy, war, diplomacy, revolution, science, technology, race, gender, social class, religion, popular culture and more at the local, national, and global levels. Studying the past helps us to understand the present and prepare for the future.
Critical Thinking
History students learn to analyze a wide range of source materials, and to construct persuasive arguments utilizing an array of evidence. By grappling with change over time, history students become adept at assessing cause-and-effect relationships and maintaining long-term perspectives on challenging questions. By studying a variety of cultures, history students develop empathy for diverse perspectives.
Research Skills
History students learn to efficiently locate relevant information and how to incorporate that information into our larger understanding of important issues. History students gain research skills that can be applied to almost every profession.
Written and Oral Communication Skills
Employers in many fields seek students who are able to write and speak clearly and persuasively. History students become better writers who can effectively construct a clear and persuasive argument. Through classroom discussions and presentations, history students also refine their ability to make oral arguments.
Interdisciplinary Thinking
History students learn to examine topics from diverse perspectives, drawing perspectives from archaeology, anthropology, economics, gender studies, military science, political science, philosophy, religion, and many other fields.
Curiosity
History engages students’ curiosity, and encourages them to apply their new knowledge and skills not only their profession, but their life.