BA(Hons) History/Social Studies

The BA(Hons) History/Social Studies program at Western Washington University provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the past and its impact on contemporary society. The program covers a wide range of historical periods and topics, from ancient civilizations to modern social movements. Students will learn how to analyze historical events, sources, and interpretations, as well as how to apply historical knowledge to real-world problems. Through coursework, research, and experiential learning opportunities, students will develop critical thinking, writing, and communication skills that are essential for success in any field.

Additional Information

The program is designed to provide students with a flexible and interdisciplinary approach to the study of history and social studies. Students can choose from a variety of elective courses that align with their interests and career goals, such as environmental history, gender studies, or public history. The program also offers opportunities for internships, research projects, and study abroad experiences, which provide students with valuable practical experience and cultural immersion.

Discover History and Social Studies at Western Washington University

Western Washington University is an ideal location for the BA(Hons) History/Social Studies program due to its scenic location in the Pacific Northwest. The university's proximity to major historical sites, such as Seattle and Vancouver, provides students with access to a wealth of cultural and historical resources. Additionally, Western Washington University's commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship aligns with the program's focus on the intersections between human history and natural systems.

The History/Social Studies major is designed to prepare students to teach history and social studies in secondary schools. In their history courses, History/Social Studies majors learn how to locate and access a wide range of sources, to analyze historical evidence, including textual and visual sources, to evaluate historical interpretations, and to develop and support their own interpretations. The quantity of writing and discussion required in history courses also helps students to develop effective communication skills. The required courses in economics, geography, and political science are intended to prepare students to teach these subjects in middle and high schools.

Why Consider a History/Social Studies Major?

If you want to teach history or social studies in a middle or high school, you should consider the History/Social Studies major. However, this major also prepares students for a wider range of careers. The knowledge students acquire and the skills they develop in their history courses and in courses in social sciences prepare them for law school, graduate programs in public policy and international affairs, and careers as journalists, government officials, and attorneys.

Secondary Education students who wish to be endorsed in Social Studies may choose this major. However, the History/Social Studies degree does not require that a student pursue a teaching certificate. History/Social Studies majors interested in Secondary certification must apply separately to the certification programs, such as those in Woodring College of Education. Students usually apply to Woodring in their senior year or after they graduate.

To receive certification, students must also complete an approved teacher certification program. To receive a recommendation for state of Washington certification, students must complete the teacher certification program, including SEC 426, which is offered by the Department of Secondary Education as a part of 1) the undergraduate Bachelor of Arts degree, or 2) a post-baccalaureate program, or 3) the Masters in Teaching degree. See the Secondary Education section of this catalog for program admission, completion, and teacher certification requirements. Completion of this combined major leads to an endorsement in social studies.

Academic Requirements for freshman students:

The admission requirements for undergraduate courses are given as follows:

• Completed application form

• Academic Transcripts(certified english translations if necessary)

• Relevant High school degree/Grade Report/Certificates

• SAT or ACT Scores (Optional)

• A cumulative GPA of 2.50

• Personal Statement or essay

• One letter of recommendation

• List of extracurricular activities(if any)

• Portfolio