BA in History in Chicago United States | DePaul University

According to the American Historical Association, everyone engages in interpreting and recounting past events, meaning we all contribute to shaping history. This discipline serves as one of our most essential frameworks for comprehending both ourselves and our surroundings. DePaul University's History Department champions this perspective, dedicating itself to collaborating with students, the academic community, and the public in a continuous exploration of historical events, their diverse interpretations, the scholarly discussions that facilitate this understanding, and how the past connects to contemporary issues. DePaul's history curriculum offers extensive coverage across time periods and regions while allowing students to specialize in areas of personal interest. The program highlights both the humanistic and social scientific aspects of historical study. Introductory courses (100-200 level) provide overviews of Asian, African, European, Latin American, North American, and World/Comparative History, with particular emphasis on analyzing primary sources. Advanced courses (300 level) delve into specialized historical debates within specific fields, with all classes prioritizing the development of research, writing, and verbal communication abilities. The history major equips students with versatile knowledge and competencies valuable across numerous professions. Alumni frequently enter education and legal fields, while others find opportunities in government, politics, cultural institutions like museums and libraries, as well as business enterprises. Employers consistently recognize history graduates for their refined critical thinking and communication abilities, making them strong candidates for roles demanding accountability and self-directed work.