History

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History isn’t just about the past—it’s about understanding change and how it shapes the world today. As a history student, you’ll explore pivotal moments, influential figures, and transformative movements while developing critical thinking, research, and communication skills. Through engaging coursework, discussions, and hands-on research, you’ll learn to analyze historical events and apply those insights to modern challenges, preparing you to make a meaningful impact on your community and beyond.

Experiential Learning

As a history major, you’ll gain hands-on experience that brings the past to life and prepares you for the future. Opportunities include:

Research & Faculty Mentorship

Internships & Community Engagement

Gain real-world experience through internships at museums, historical societies, and nonprofit organizations.
Collaborate on experiential learning projects with community organizations.

Global Learning and Study Abroad

Participate in semester-long and Bradley-sponsored study abroad programs for firsthand cultural experiences.
Take history courses taught by Bradley faculty abroad.

Student Organizations & Honors Societies

Program Details

Course Requirements

Degree Concentrations

Take your career any way you want! Explore the different degree concentrations we offer and personalize your education.

The Difference, Identity, and Power concentration explores the complex interplay of cultural diversity, social identities, and systems of power throughout history, with a focus on the experiences of marginalized communities. Through coursework in the History of Gender and Sexuality and the History of Race and Ethnicity, students gain critical skills in research, communication, and cultural analysis—preparing them to thrive in diverse environments and advocate for a more just and inclusive world.

This concentration also connects with interdisciplinary minors such as Asian Studies, African American Studies, European Studies, Latin American Studies, and Women’s and Gender Studies.

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The Digital Humanities and Public History concentration bridges technology and historical scholarship, equipping students to make the past accessible and engaging for diverse audiences. By combining research, storytelling, and digital tools—from programming and interactive media to archival preservation—students gain hands-on experience in collaborative, community-centered projects.

This interdisciplinary program prepares graduates to amplify marginalized voices, preserve cultural heritage, and thrive in careers where critical thinking, digital fluency, and historical insight intersect to shape a more inclusive future.

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Career Opportunities

A history degree opens doors to a wide range of careers by equipping you with critical thinking, research, and communication skills. Whether you’re drawn to education, public service, or the private sector, your ability to analyze the past and understand complex systems will prepare you for success in fields such as:

Education
Business
Law
Law enforcement
Academia
Politics
Government
Intelligence
Foreign Service
Non-profits
Museums
Arts and cultural institutions
Ministry

Minors

Explore the past to better understand the present! This minor covers U.S., European, and global history, preparing you for careers in law, business, government, or museum work. It’s also great for grad school prep!

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Examine how gender shapes society, culture, and identity. This interdisciplinary minor dives into gender roles, intersectionality, and social change, culminating in a research-focused capstone seminar.

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Dive into the history, culture, and contributions of Black communities in the U.S. and beyond. This interdisciplinary minor explores politics, literature, social movements, and intellectual traditions, centering race alongside other identities like gender, class, and nationality.

Choose between a research-focused track or a hands-on community engagement path to connect your studies with real-world impact.

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Gain a global perspective with this interdisciplinary minor covering the history, politics, and cultures of East, South, and Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and the Asian diaspora.

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Expand your global awareness by studying European history, culture, and politics. Perfect for students interested in international business, diplomacy, law, or the arts. Study abroad courses can count toward the minor!

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