Undergraduate Program Description

The study of history enables students to learn about the people and events of the past. In the process, it also helps them develop their ability to think logically, to conduct research, and to analyze the various ways in which the past continues to shape the present.

The history curriculum prepares students for graduate or professional schools, positions in teaching, business, or government, and a variety of other careers. Faculty advisors are available to consult with students regarding career choices, education certification, and internships, as well as to provide assistance in planning general academic progress. An honors program is offered for outstanding history majors.

Courses at the 1000 level are introductory surveys open to anyone with an interest in history but without a strong background in the subject. Students intending to continue in history should take these courses in their freshman or sophomore years. Courses at the 2000 level, with the exception of Historical Methods, are national surveys for a general undergraduate audience. Courses at the 3000 level, primarily for sophomores and above, provide more focused and detailed study of a period, place, or topic introduced at the 1000 or 2000 level. Courses at the 4000 level are writing-intensive seminars and are generally restricted to students with junior standing or above who have already taken six hours or more of college-level history.

Department of History
431 Major Williams Hall
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Blacksburg, VA 24061-0117
(540) 231-5331
Fax - (540) 231- 8724