History, BA
Historians examine the past to reimagine our future.
Our program will challenge you to think, read, and write about issues arising from the tensions societies face in every generation. You will progress through 2.5 million years of history, from the Paleolithic Era to the present day, engaging with the past through primary sources, hands-on research, and contemporary digital research methods
With our outstanding, approachable faculty as your guide, you will learn how to situate contemporary events within the context of the human narrative. As the culmination of your study, you will create an original work of historical research, employing the skills you have honed throughout your four years here.
A history degree will equip you for any profession that requires research, analyzing documents and data, thinking critically, reading closely, making oral arguments, and writing persuasively.
Learn more about the program
Get to know our well-respected faculty and their academic specialties. Or explore scholarship opportunities and an array of internship possibilities.
Earn an History, BA and a Single-Subject Teaching Credential at Saint Mary's in just four years through our Single Subject Teaching Credential Integrated Pathway!
What can you do with a degree in History?
A History degree builds research, analysis, and writing skills for roles across education, public history, media, nonprofits, and policy.
(*Some careers may require additional certification or graduate study)
Public Historian / Museum Professional (Archivist, Curator)
Preserve and interpret collections; design exhibits; manage archives and public programs.
Secondary History Teacher (Credential Track)
Teach standards-aligned curricula; assess learning; advise student activities.
Lawyer / Legal Professional (Pre-Law Track)
Prepare for law-related careers through intensive reading, research, writing, and argumentation (law school often required).
Nonprofit Program Manager
Plan and manage programs, budgets, partnerships, and impact reporting for mission-driven organizations.
Project Manager / Program Coordinator
Coordinate timelines, teams, and deliverables across organizations, agencies, or nonprofits.
Policy Analyst / Legislative Aide
Research bills and historical context; brief stakeholders; draft memos and recommendations
Journalist / Editor
Investigate issues, verify sources, and produce clear, evidence-based stories and copy.
Communications & Content Strategist
Translate complex history into accessible web, social, and long-form content for organizations.
Research Analyst (Think Tank / NGO)
Collect primary/secondary data; synthesize findings; produce reports and fact sheets
Testimonials
“Being a History major changed the way I view the world around me. Being a Saint Mary’s History graduate, I am confident in my abilities to think globally, converse eloquently, research responsibly, and write clearly.”
Maryanne Cronin ’11
