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Welcome

The Department of History offers students a challenging yet flexible program of study that emphasizes both the distinctiveness and the utility of the historian's craft. Our program is distinctive in that all history courses focus not only on the past's exciting events and developments, but also on the manner in which historians gather their evidence and reach their conclusions.

Successful Americans have long understood that a knowledge of history offers opportunities to make better decisions today. A history background can provide important advantages in analyzing contemporary events and trends. Whether in business or in service, good solutions today depend on a clear understanding of yesterday. By learning from the past, we can improve the future. Even in daily life, history not only informs but instructs. The skills of the historian – critical thinking and the ability to conduct documentary research – can influence the way we read a newspaper, shop for a car, trace our family lineage or evaluate the performance of our institutions.

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Academic Programs

The Bachelor of Arts degree program in history offers students a flexible liberal arts curriculum which allows them to have a double major or one or more minors. Students are also strongly encouraged to develop interdisciplinary areas of concentration to meet their interests and vocational goals. Majors should consult the department chairperson for details.
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Careers in History

Historians attempt to answer important questions about past human experiences, to share the answers to these questions with others, and to explain the relevance of their findings for the benefit of society. The skills of today's historian are often used across disciplines and in many professional settings. The American Historical Association provides several guides with valuable information for students interested in a career in history. Phi Alpha Theta, the History Honor Society, also devotes a section of their web site to career possibilities for history majors. Please use the links at right information on the various careers in this field.
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Opportunities & Activities

History majors can choose from several curricular and extra-curricular activities to enhance their learning experience. Students of history can further develop their skills in research and writing in a professional setting through internships and co-ops, and by participation in events such as UD's own Stander Symposium. There are also many opportunities for service to the community and beyond.

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Research & Scholarship

The research and scholarly efforts of our faculty ensure that our students are educated in a vibrant and engaged environment. Use the link at right to view a list of recent research and scholarship projects.
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Faculty & Staff

The faculty and staff of the Department of History invite you to meet us and find out what we have to offer.
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Contact Us

Please feel free to contact us for more information about our programs. We look forward to hearing from you.

WHERE CAN YOU FIND US?

Department of History
University of Dayton
Jesse Phillips Humanities Center Room 400A
300 College Park
Dayton, Ohio 45469-1520

Phone: 937-229-2848
Fax: 937-229-4400