History
Explore how the past has molded the present.
Historians study the complexity of factors that inform movements and events in history. As a history major at Alma, you will:
- Take courses delving into the history of the United States, European and non-Western countries.
- Examine themes that have shaped the making of the modern world, such as imperialism and colonization, war and conflict, industrialization and globalization.
- Undertake your own research in class-based and independent projects.
At A Glance
-
12:1Student-to-faculty ratio
-
18Average class size
Possible Careers
Explore how the past has molded the present.
Historians study the complexity of factors that inform movements and events in history. As a history major at Alma, you will:
- Take courses delving into the history of the United States, European and non-Western countries.
- Examine themes that have shaped the making of the modern world, such as imperialism and colonization, war and conflict, industrialization and globalization.
- Undertake your own research in class-based and independent projects.
Explore
Student & Alumni Spotlights
No one describes the Alma experience better than those living it. Explore their stories, in their own words, below.
I have had the opportunity to go through different classes in the liberal arts curriculum that I wouldn't have been able to experience anywhere else. I’ve been able to build relationships and develop skills that will serve me well on my career path.
One of my big highlights from Alma was working with Dr. (Kristin) Olbertson on a research project that I ended up presenting at a Phi Alpha Theta regional conference. I ended up winning an award for legal history research, which helped me realize I was doing the right things with my career goals. Alma College also makes you work hard in your academics, which is excellent preparation for any grad school.
I have had the opportunity to go through different classes in the liberal arts curriculum that I wouldn't have been able to experience anywhere else. I’ve been able to build relationships and develop skills that will serve me well on my career path.
One of my big highlights from Alma was working with Dr. (Kristin) Olbertson on a research project that I ended up presenting at a Phi Alpha Theta regional conference. I ended up winning an award for legal history research, which helped me realize I was doing the right things with my career goals. Alma College also makes you work hard in your academics, which is excellent preparation for any grad school.
Get to Know History
Meet the Faculty
The Alma Venture
Dream it, learn it, do it. Through our Venture program, you can design a unique, hands-on learning experience at home or abroad. Find out more about the Alma Venture.
Explore the Curriculum
Learn more about the fundamental courses that will offer a roadmap for your academic growth and expertise development.
Hands-on learning through a global lens.
At Alma, our program provides a historical perspective that contributes to an understanding of the economic, social, political, intellectual and technological factors that influence human behavior and contextualize historical events.
Our major and minor both offer a high degree of flexibility. As such, you can craft an academic pathway that reflects your interests. Along with surveying significant developments in world history, you can take specialized courses in topics like the history of public health, religion and immigration.
You’ll participate in practical opportunities, too. Many of our students pursue research or an internship abroad with funding from the Posey Global Fellowship or a Venture grant. And through our one-month, immersive Spring Term classes, our students have traveled to locations such as China, London and Mexico.
What You Need to Know
As a history major, you’ll analyze, critique and communicate in oral and written forms. These skills provide an excellent foundation for roles in law, journalism, industrial management, banking, civil service, library and museum management, ministry, politics and teaching.
Many of our alumni pursue graduate-level study, while others opt to enter the workforce directly. Either way, you’ll have plenty of opportunities. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment in history-related careers will increase by 12% over the next eight years — a figure that far surpasses the national average growth rate.
Get Connected
Student Organizations
Connect with peers, challenge yourself academically and find ways to stay active by joining one — or more — of our 100+ student organizations.
