History Option
Review the academic map for recommended course selections and sequencing for a History
focus (PDF, 
) .
Studying history introduces you to the necessary enlargement of the human experience. It is a way of getting out of the boundaries of your own life and culture and of seeing more of what the human experience has been. We study history to know where we are and where we have come from and so we do not fantasize about the past and make up myths to justify some immediate purpose. Something you read or learn about in history can literally change your life. It could open you up to all sorts of questions, ideas, and views.
Studying history gives you the tools to make sense of the world especially now. Examining the past will help you learn to question the stories that are handed down to you and reported in the news. You will learn that history is the story of everyday people-nameless, faceless people doing amazing things. Moreover, studying history not only takes place in the classroom, but across the college in in the community at large. Therefore we teach students to use history as a means to inform their engagement with vital issues surrounding us in the society.
Program Advising
Academic advising helps students reach their educational and career goals. Meet with your academic advisor regularly to discuss your academic plans and make sure you are on track to graduate and/or transfer. See the academic map for a suggested course sequence for this discipline.
Transfer Opportunities
There are no limits to what a student can do with a history degree. Studying history will benefit students by allowing them to not only focus on a subject they are interested in and passionate about, but at the same time prepare them to continue their studies at a four-year institution. See all transfer agreements.
Students typically take two to four courses in history at MC. The remainder of history
specialty courses are taken at the junior and senior level (300- and 400-level). Some
schools, notably UMCP and UMBC, require completion of a world language to the intermediate
level for history majors. Check requirements at each school carefully to avoid duplication.
For example, at some schools, some HIST courses are consider “upper-level” and an
MC course may not fulfill an upper-level requirement. If undecided, choose courses
in common at several schools. See the history major comparison chart (PDF, ) for sample requirements at various Maryland state institutions.
To get help, make an appointment with a counselor or advisor or a general studies program advisor in history.
Career Options
For some positions listed, a bachelor's degree or higher may be required. Use the Career and Program Explorer to see a full report for this career field. See links below chart for further guidance and/or connect with a Program Advisor to discuss career goals.
Since studying history teaches students how to think, write, and speak critically, students will be uniquely prepared to apply for career positions on the staffs of many of America's premier museums, cultural centers and historic sites. Graduates with a degree in History may feel a real call to work in federal government departments or be drawn to work in non-profit sector. After taking sufficient education credits, graduates with a degree in History may find that they are qualified and certified to teach social studies courses at the high school level or go on to obtain advanced degrees and become a college or university professor.
- MC Student Employment Services: Speak with the Student Employment Specialist for help with resume writing, interviewing, setting up a College Central Network (CCN)new window account and other job search topics.
- Career Coach: Explore Career Coach to learn more about this career and/or discover related majors and in-demand careers based on your current interests! Take a Career Assessment and then browse careers and job opportunities in the area.
Related Programs and Courses
General Studies Degree
Students who major in general studies explore personal, professional, and academic areas of interest within a flexible framework supporting transfer.
Workforce Development and Continuing Education
MC offers a wide variety of noncredit classes. These courses are designed to help you upgrade your skills, pursue career training, or learn something new.