HISTORY

Alexander Hall 410
(206) 281-2773
www.spu.edu/depts/history/

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History, the study of the vast record of human experience, serves as the collective memory of humankind. As memory defines selfhood and guides behavior, so history teaches about social identity and responsibility. And just as one’s memory changes and matures, so does the collective understanding of the past change as new evidence is discovered and new perspectives are developed. Like a detective hunt, the discipline of history teaches students to seek facts, weigh interpretations, and draw conclusions. It requires wide reading, deep thinking, and clear communication.

Historical study at SPU seeks a balanced understanding of world cultures. The major program explores the roots and development of Western civilization in the ancient and medieval periods, traces the interaction between the West and the rest of the world, then probes more deeply into American, European, and non-Western history. Along the way students are able to trace the impact of Christianity in both Western and non-Western settings. The program emphasizes humanity’s common heritage and shared future, and challenges students to ask how a Christian worldview can help us understand the sweep of human events, the variety of human cultures, and the influence of heritage on identity.

A major in history, especially after advanced study, can lead to careers in teaching, writing, in museums and archival work, and in a wide variety of other professions ranging from journalism, law and government to the pastorate and missions. For students with uncertain career goals, history offers superb training in analytical thinking, effective communication, and placing events into broader context.

History students are encouraged to consider special programs, both on and off campus. Complementing history with a second major, such as political science or European studies, is encouraged. Internships and other off-campus study opportunities add practical skills and rich experiences of lifelong value. Consider spending a Summer Session in Spain, or a quarter or semester in Western Europe, Russia, Costa Rica, Egypt, China, or Kenya. Or study public policy for a term in the American Studies Program in Washington, D.C. For details, please consult the history faculty or the department Web page at www.spu.edu/depts/history/. To qualify for admission to the major, a student must have a 2.5 minimum GPA.

Requirements for the History Major
*Should reflect a balance among European, U.S., and non-Western studies. May include, with advisor’s approval, one course in a related field. Students are encouraged to propose some independent activity (HIS 4900 series). Students majoring in history should work closely with their advisor in selecting additional supporting courses tailored to their career goals. Students planning graduate study should acquire a reading mastery of a foreign language. Students seeking teaching credentials should include HIS 3600 History of the Pacific Northwest in their program; they should also consult with the School of Education early in their academic program. Note to prospective teachers: A major in social science is offered for students interested in teaching history and social studies at the elementary level. Please consult the School of Education section of the Catalog for a description of this major and speak with a School of Education advisor as well as the chair of the History Department. Requirements for the Hisory Major.

Requirements for the History Minor
A minor in history is available for those wishing to enrich their college experience by examining the unfolding story of human cultures through time, as well as for education students seeking an additional credential. Requirements for the History Minor.

Note to prespective teachers: Students taking a minor in history who are planning to become teachers should take both HIS 2502 and HIS 2503, and they should also take HIS 3600 History of the Pacific Northwest.

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