9.23. History

Programs offered:

  • B.A. in History (TU)
  • B.A.L.S. in History (ADP)
  • Minor in History (TU)
  • Minor in History (ADP)

History bridges the disciplinary perspectives of the humanities and social sciences. The causes, experience and impact of important moments in the past are examined in order to explain, analyze and assign contemporary significance to the movements and events that have shaped human experience. History courses at Oglethorpe begin where traditional survey courses and textbooks leave off. Rather than simply viewing the parade of events, students consider the origins and implications of events, their impact on our values, assumptions, social relations and world views. In this spirit, students are invited to enter into dialogue with historians past and present.

Courses are taught in a seminar format designed to promote lively interchange and informed debate. Reading assignments draw on a wide range of historical methods and traditions, including perspectives from religion, philosophy, art, music, literature and popular culture as well as politics, economics and geography. These methods and perspectives inform independent student research. In their individual projects, students develop their own research agendas and learn to master the techniques of historical research. Particular emphasis is placed on presentation—both written and oral—of evidence, arguments and conclusions.

Oglethorpe’s location provides many opportunities for creative research as well as internships. The experience and training of History majors prepares them for post-graduate study in a wide variety of academic disciplines, including history, archaeology, anthropology, politics, international studies and social work, as well as careers in such fields as education, law, journalism, public relations, art, theology, diplomacy and public service.

Lower-level courses are especially recommended for freshmen and sophomores; upper-level courses generally require a research paper, may have prerequisites and are primarily aimed toward juniors and seniors.

B.A. in History (see Sec. 8.5.1. for a complete list of B.A. graduation requirements)

  1. Completion of HIS 450 Senior Seminar in Historiography
  2. Completion of nine additional History courses.
  3. Completion of one semester of a foreign language at the 200-level or higher, or demonstration of equivalent proficiency.
  4. Additional requirements and things to note:
    • A grade of “C-” or better is required in all courses contributing to the major.
    • The 10 required History courses must cover the following geographic areas and time periods (a course can simultaneously satisfy both one area and time-period requirement): European (E), United States (A) and Latin American history (L); ancient or medieval (1), early modern (2), and modern (3). Fields covered by individual courses are indicated in the course descriptions found in Sec. 13.; the letter (E, A or L) indicates geographic field and while the number (1, 2 or 3) indicates chronological field. Some courses may cover more than one chronological field.
    • At least three of the required History courses must be at the 100- or 200-level.
    • At least three of the required History courses must be at the 300- or 40-level. Note that the required HIS 450 course cannot be counted in this category of three or more upper-level courses.

B.A.L.S. in History (see Sec. 8.5.2. for a complete list of B.A.L.S. graduation requirements)

The requirements are identical to those for the B.A. in History (see above).

Minor in History (TU)

  1. Completion of five History courses.
  2. Additional requirements and things to note:
    • At least two of the five History courses must be at the 300- or 400-level.
    • The five History courses must cover at least two of the following geographic regions: European, United States, Latin America, and Non-Western.
    • At least two of the five History courses must focus on the Modern World (1750 or later).
    • At least two of the five History courses must focus on the pre-Modern World (pre-1750).

Minor in History (ADP)

The requirements are identical to those for the Minor in History (TU) (see above).