History (BA, Minor)

The Aurora University History major is defined not only by learning about history, but by doing it. Our students become historians through an intensive curriculum that develops essential historical knowledge and cultural awareness, while constantly sharpening the communication and research skills that are indispensable to so many careers.

Our courses are stimulating and vital, covering not only essentials such as World and American history, but also such fascinating topics as African-American History, Russian History, the Middle East, Black Chicago, Global Environmental History, and many others. Regardless of the course, the focus is always on questions. History is not about memorization. It is about understanding, interpretation, discussion, and making meaning.

History faculty work hard to know each student and work with them to identify and prepare for their chosen career or graduate study.

Crucial to this process is a unique three-course sequence at the core of the History curriculum. Few History programs have anything like it, particularly in its sustained focus on building writing, speaking, critical thinking, and research skills. It begins during a student’s first year and culminates in a Senior Seminar Capstone research project—an impressive piece of work that makes for an ideal showcase of a student’s work for prospective employers and graduate schools.

Working closely with our students not only enables us to tailor the program to their needs, but helps them to discover their passions and pursue the careers they find most meaningful. Few majors are as flexible as History, both in the ways in which students can customize their course plans, and in the variety of fields for which they are prepared to enter upon graduation.

The careers open to History majors are diverse and exciting, from those in government, museums, archives, and journalism, to those in business, insurance, and tourism, among many others. History pairs well with many other majors, including Political Science and Public Policy, Business Administration, Criminal Justice, and Communication, to name a few. Students interested in working in museums are encouraged to pursue the Museum Studies minor. Even with a second major, you’ll still be able to graduate in four years.

Students who plan to teach complete the supplemental Secondary Education major. This program, which brings together coursework in History, the Social Sciences, and Education, equips students to teach History and Social Studies courses at American middle and high schools. The program provides an immersive experience for AU students in area schools to sharpen their teaching skills and network with future colleagues in the education world.

A minor in History is also an option for students wanting to explore academics beyond their major.

In Our Own Words

In Our Own Words: Professor of History Jerry Butters on how critical thinking is the foundation of career success

As a history major, you learn how to write, how to think, and how to discuss issues in a critical manner—and that will help you in any profession.