The study of history offers students a deeper comprehension of the human experience through an examination of the institutional, social, political, economic, technological, intellectual, and cultural dimensions of our past. Disciplined study of the past encourages the cultivation of “historical thinking” — understanding human identity and social interaction in their historical contexts. This understanding is necessary to analyze and evaluate issues of contemporary society and the increasingly interconnected world.
The Bachelor of Arts in History focuses on developing both breadth and depth of students’ mastery of a geographical and temporal range of historical content. Additionally, students conduct original research based on primary source materials, and gain exposure to cross-cultural historical comparison between the United States and the world. Historiography and historical method are built into the curriculum at every level, concluding with a more focused study of historical method at the 400 level.
The history concentration is offered within the Bryant Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies degree program. Working with a faculty advisor of your choice, you will design your history degree according to your interests in particular geographical, chronological, and topical areas.
Students acquire skills enabling them to read documents or texts in historical context, to interpret events and understand institutions, to appreciate the diverse cultural and historical experience of western and non-western peoples, and to write extensively. Coupled with Bryant’s business core, the command of these skills– all highly valued by the business community– provides student a unique education and training for positions of leadership. Further, the concentration in history gives students excellent preparation for graduate study in a variety of disciplines, including law, business, public policy, education, and history.
History is more than just the study of past events. It offers a deeper comprehension of human experience through an examination of the institutional, political, social, economic, technological, intellectual, and cultural elements of the past. It also offers insight into our present and future.
Studying History at Bryant University
Small class sizes, faculty who are noted historians in their areas of specialization, and dynamic courses provide students with a depth and breadth of understanding in all fields of history.
Bryant University offers a range of options for students interested in the field of History.
Opportunities After Graduation
Students who study History develop the critical-thinking and analysis skills to become professionals in a number of fields, including:
- Government
- Politics
- Education
- Law
- Research
- Writing
- Political risk assessment
- Information/research services
- Strategic planning
- Foreign Relations/Intelligence
- Policy Analysis
For More Information
To learn more about the History major, concentration, or minor, please contact:
Bradford Martin, PhD
Associate Professor and History Coordinator
Department of History and Social Sciences
bmartin@bryant.edu