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Bachelor of Arts in History

Explore how historical knowledge is created with a Bachelor of Arts in History degree at University of Redlands.  

Degrees Offered

Bachelor of Arts

Program Types

Undergraduate

Mode of Study

On Campus

Department

History

What is a history degree?

Explore how historical knowledge is created with a Bachelor of Arts in History degree. With a special focus on the 19th and 20th centuries, you will learn about the interconnectivity of the world through global perspectives, become an effective communicator, and participate in hands-on projects that will prepare you for careers in education, law, business, public service, and more. In this program, you will be empowered to take your education to the next level by improving your skills in reading, interpretation, consolidation of information, and presenting information in a clear and concise manner. History students excel in problem-solving and emerge with the knowledge of how to defend their ideas with confidence, clarity, and precision.

Why should you major in history at Redlands?

As a student in the history program at University of Redlands, you will receive hands-on and personalized instruction from passionate, expert faculty who specialize in American, African, Asian, European, Latin American, and Middle Eastern history. The history department hosts events throughout the school year to help build a sense of community for historians in training. You'll have access to internship opportunities at places like the Redlands AK Smiley Library archives and various positions with other local historical sites and societies. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to study abroad during semester-long programs and Redlands' unique May Term to benefit from global perspectives and the experience of witnessing historical sites in-person. A degree in history will prepare you for a variety of professions, including teaching, law, library services, non-profit work, and public service.

Classes you'll take

Students who major in history will personalize their program of study by declaring a thematic focus, tying together coursework and laying the foundation for a capstone project of original historical literature while engaging in historiographical debates. All majors will complete the following requirements:

I. Foundation Courses

Four courses, ideally to be completed by the end of the sophomore year.

HIST 101 World History to 1450
HIST 102 World History since 1450
HIST 121 American History to 1877
HIST 122 American History since 1877

II. Theories and Methods course

 HIST 290 Seminar in Historical Theories and Methods

III. Electives

A minimum of six courses to be completed, drawn from a pool of seven geographic regions. Only one course can be taken in each geographic region represented by (1) Africa, (2) Asia-Pacific, (3) Europe, (4) Latin America, (5) Middle East, (6) United States/North America (7) Comparative/Trans-Regional (HIST 272 America and Asia and HIST 274 Vietnam count as Asia-Pacific regional courses). At least one of the six courses must be in a chronological era before 1900 and at least one of the six courses must be from a chronological era after 1900. At least two of the six courses must be at the 300 level.

IV. Capstone Experience 

HIST 490 Capstone Research Seminar

Why should you minor in history at Redlands?

The History minor offers you a strong understanding of the subject and will help you develop skills in critical thinking and research. Completion of the minor in history requires 28 credits minimum in these courses:

Complete at least 2 of the following courses:

  • HIST101 - World History to 1450
  • HIST102 - World History Since 1450
  • HIST111 - Early Modern Europe
  • HIST112 - Modern Europe
  • HIST121 - American History to 1877
  • HIST122 - American History Since 1877
  • HIST131 - Latin American Civilizations
  • HIST141 - Classical Asian Civilizations: China and Japan
  • HIST142 - Modern Asian Civilizations: China and Japan
  • HIST151 - African Experience Before 1800
  • HIST152 - Emergence of Modern Africa

Ideally to be completed by the end of the sophomore year.

Complete ALL of the following Courses:

  • HIST290 - Seminar in Historical Theories & Methods

Complete at least 4 courses in the following:

  • HIST Electives 

At least one of the four courses must be at the 300-level.

View the current university catalog to learn more about program requirements.

Undergraduate application deadlines
Fall 2025 - First Year
November 15, 2024 - Early Action
Fall 2025 - First Year
January 15, 2025 - Regular Decision*
Fall 2025 - Transfer
March 1, 2025 - Regular Decision*
Note
*Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis after the deadline based on capacity.
Apply Now

What you'll learn

Articulate understanding of historical continuity and change across region and time.
Enter into disciplinary debates through cogent and reasoned written and oral communication.
Chart an intentional course through the major and articulate understanding of themselves as thinkers, scholars, and historians.

What you'll learn

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Graduates pursue careers as

Researching, interpreting, and documenting past events to provide insights into human history.
Preserving historical documents and artifacts, ensuring their accessibility for future generations.
Designing and organizing exhibits that educate the public about historical events and cultural heritage.
Advising on the accurate portrayal of historical events in media, education, and public projects.

Graduates pursue careers as

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100 %

of University of Redlands B.A. in History graduates have successful outcomes within six months of graduation.

First Year Destination Survey, 2023

9 out of 10 ( 91 %)

Alumni shared they gained critical thinking skills from their degree.

NACM Alumni Career Mobility, 2022

Top 10

Best Universities in the West

U.S. News & World Report, 2023

Career Prep

The University of Redlands offers many ways to prepare you for life after graduation.

Visit career prep page

Want to know more?

Get in touch with our admissions team.

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