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History Major

Learn from the past to direct our future. Through the History program at Pittsburg State, gather evidence and present findings. Make events of the past come alive through educational storytelling.

Diverse Archive Collection

Our history degree prepares students to examine the exchange of ideas across a variety of media, from academic journals to mainstream news, and from documentaries to public talks. 

Flexible Curriculum

The history curriculum is highly flexible, allowing students to align their college track to their interests and career goals. Whether your passion lies in Modern U.S., Modern World, or Early World History, we have comprehensive course offerings. 

Study Abroad

Faculty-led study abroad opportunities are paired with history courses to enhance your learning experience. For instance, take a two-week trip to Scotland after completing the course, Modern Britain. See first-hand how imperialism impacted Scottish society. Trips and course pairings vary year to year!

Recognition for Research 

History students will complete several research papers in their college career. Earn academic recognition at the Kansas Association of Historians or Missouri Conference of History. 

Internship Opportunities

Faculty leverage their national network of historians to help you find work experience. In previous years, students have curated exhibits at the Truman birthplace, reenacted battles at historical sites, and discovered archived letters by Abraham Lincoln.

Students preapres for history job at Pittsburg State University
Discover Your Family History

Apply research methodologies to your own family tree! In the course, Your Family in History, utilize tools of genealogy to uncover aspects of your heritage. 

Pittsburg State University history major prepares for job in the classroom
Extensive Course Offerings

Are you interested in the Japanese Samurai? Or the American West? Maybe Pirates? At Pittsburg State, there are history classes to satisfy the interests of all degree-earning students.

Student prepares for career with history degree at Pittsburg State University
Institution Rich in History

Since 1903, the university has forged proud traditions in academics, athletics, and service to the community. Explore photographs, correspondence, manuscripts, and memorabilia in our Special Collections and Archives.

100%

internship placement rate

15:1

average student-to-teacher ratio

12

credit hours of core history courses

27

credit hours of elective history courses of your choice

History Careers

What can you do with a degree in history? 

Students who earn a history degree at Pittsburg State learn about the past, but also gain a richer understanding of human behavior and societal trends. And this knowledge is applicable in a wide array of jobs and industries.  

Jobs for history majors: 

The research, writing, analytical, and communications skills of a history major apply to many career fields including:  

  • Development supervisors 
  • Technical writers/editors 
  • Contract managers 
  • FBI agents/police officers/CIA area specialists  
  • Insurance claims examiners/political campaign managers/speech writers 

History teacher: 

A history teacher leads students in the study of past events in both the United States and around the world. History teachers facilitate learning by providing stimulating discussions, readings, and projects. 

Our history program at Pittsburg State offers a history education emphasis. Pursue this track to become eligible for teaching licensure in the state of Kansas. Graduates obtain their teaching certificate to work in public/private schools. 

Historian jobs: 

Students interested in a career path as a historian will seek additional, graduate-level education. Possible specialization includes museum studies or public affairs. Master’s recipients serve as: 

  • Archivists 
  • Reference specialists 
  • Curators 

Historians are employed in museums, state historical societies, the National Park System, the National Archives, and more.   

Historians may explore ways to preserve historic architecture using modern sustainability standards. Common workplaces for preservationists include: 

  • Architectural firms 
  • City planning offices 
  • Economic development agencies 
  • Historic parks 
  • Construction companies 

Emphases available

Teach social studies, history, government, geography, economics, or psychology at the middle and high school levels. Graduates are eligible for state licensure in Kansas.

Additional information
for the School of History, Philosophy, and Social Sciences

Catalog – see program guides