BA(Hons) History

The BA(Hons) History program at Western Washington University provides students with a comprehensive understanding of historical events, processes, and interpretations. The program offers a range of courses that cover various time periods, regions, and themes, including American history, European history, World history, and Historical theory and methods. Students will gain skills in critical thinking, research, and writing, as well as a deep understanding of the historical context of contemporary issues. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in academia, museums, archives, and other historical institutions, as well as for further graduate study.

Additional Information

The program is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and encourages students from underrepresented groups to apply. The university offers a range of support services and resources for international students, including language support and cultural events. Students in the program can also participate in internships, research projects, and study abroad programs to gain practical experience and broaden their perspectives.

Experience the Best of Both Worlds at Western Washington University

Western Washington University is an excellent choice for students pursuing a degree in History due to its commitment to academic excellence, small class sizes, and personalized attention from faculty. The university's location in Bellingham, Washington also provides access to a range of cultural and outdoor activities, as well as opportunities for community engagement and service learning. Students in the program can also benefit from the university's strong ties with local historical institutions and organizations.

Most students are required to study history in both elementary and secondary schools. At that level, students often are given the impression that the study of history simply requires memorization of names, dates, and other facts about events in the past. At the college level, however, the study of history facilitates the development of research, analytical, evaluative, and interpretive skills. History 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.

Why Consider a History Major?

If you like to read, write, and learn about the experiences of people in different places and times, you should consider the history major. No other major prepares students for as many different careers. History majors’ strong communication skills are valued by all employers, including businesses and government agencies. The research, analytical, and evaluative skills that history majors develop prepare them for graduate study in many humanistic disciplines, public affairs, and library science and for careers as journalists, government officials, and attorneys. A growing number of history majors have made careers in the expanding field of public history. They work in museums, archives, and historical preservation.

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