The History major and minor programs at SPU invite students to discover the complex worlds of the past across the globe, exploring cultural, political, and economic connections within and among societies. Our program emphasizes the usefulness of History in understanding social and economic inequalities and challenges, and the role that History can play in crafting solutions. As we study the past, we cultivate the practice of empathy and foster Christian hope for the future.
The Museum Studies Track supplements the History major core with coursework that helps you prepare for graduate study and employment in the vigorous and innovative field of museum studies and public history.
- A minimum 71 credits are required for this major, including 30 upper-division credits.
- Graduates who complete this program will be well prepared for immediate employment, or for further graduate study, in the vigorous and growing fields of museum, archival, and public history.
Entering and completing the major or minor
In order to earn a degree, you must complete at least one academic major. SPU encourages students to explore various academic paths, so if you change your mind about a major or minor, or want to include an additional program, you are able to do so, as outlined below.
Note that the University encourages you to enter your chosen major(s) and minor(s) by the start of your junior year. Students who transfer as juniors and seniors should enter a major within their first two quarters at SPU.
- If this is your first quarter at SPU and you identified the history major as your first choice on your application for admission to the University, you have gained entry to the major.
- To change or enter a major or minor in this department, follow these instructions.
- The University requires a grade of C- or better in all classes that apply to a major or minor; however, programs may require higher minimum grades in specific courses. You may repeat an SPU course only once for a higher grade.
- To advance in this program, meet with your faculty advisor regularly to discuss your grades, course progression, and other indicators of satisfactory academic progress. If your grades or other factors indicate that you may not be able to successfully complete the major or minor, your faculty advisor can work with you to explore options, which may include choosing a different major or minor.
- You must complete the major or minor requirements that are in effect in the SPU Undergraduate Catalog for the year you enter the major or minor.
Certification with elementary education endorsement
- If you plan to teach in an elementary school and are interested in history, you must major in the Integrated Studies major with a concentration in the Social Sciences.
- The concentration consists of courses in history, political science, and geography.
- Further information about the Elementary Certification Program is available in the School of Education.
Certification with secondary education endorsement
If you plan to obtain secondary Residency Teacher Certification with endorsement in History, you should pursue a BA in History, and include the course “History of the Pacific Northwest” HIS 3600. You must also complete requirements for a Secondary Education Endorsement through the School of Education.
If you plan to become a teacher, visit the School of Education for complete information.
Time Schedule
Course planning: Suggested course sequences