Course Overview

The History program at Pennsylvania State University offers a comprehensive exploration of human experiences across time and cultures. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and the analysis of primary and secondary sources. Students can choose from a wide range of historical periods and thematic areas, including American, European, African, Asian, and Latin American history, as well as specialized topics like military history and gender studies.

Unique features of the program include opportunities for undergraduate research, access to extensive archival resources, and study abroad options that allow students to engage with historical sites firsthand. The department also fosters interdisciplinary approaches, encouraging students to connect history with other fields such as anthropology, political science, and literature.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the History program are equipped for diverse career paths in education, public history, law, government, journalism, and non-profit sectors. The skills developed—such as critical analysis, writing, and research—are highly transferable and valued in various industries.

Key Faculty and Staff

The History Department at Penn State includes distinguished faculty with expertise in various subfields. Notable members include professors specializing in early American history, modern European history, and global historical perspectives, many of whom have published extensively and received national recognition for their scholarship.

Unique Facilities and Partnerships

Students have access to the university’s extensive library system, including special collections and digital archives for historical research. The department also collaborates with local and national historical societies, museums, and cultural institutions to provide internship and experiential learning opportunities.