History
Bachelor of Science
The past shapes the present
Everything we are now is a result of who we have been in the past. When you study history, you gain a deep understanding of the people, places and events that have helped create the world we know today.
As a history major, you will explore the entirety of human experience — spanning centuries, continents and cultures. You will develop a rich historical perspective and a strong set of skills in research, writing, problem-solving and critical thinking. The program equips you for a variety of careers in business, education, law, communications and many other fields.
Highlights of the program include:
- Dynamic courses on everything from Ancient Greece to the 1960s.
- Unique capstone course for majors with special topic seminars.
- Internship opportunities in historical societies, libraries, public records offices and museums.
- First-hand research opportunities and collaborative work with faculty.
- Study abroad support with travel courses, credit transfers and funding.
View the sample four-year plan for this degree.
Overview
Related Topics
From then to now
Degree fit
This program could be a good fit if you:
- Are fascinated by history, storytelling, material culture, visual culture, politics, law or art.
- Like museums, travel and learning about other cultures.
- Enjoy reading, listening to or watching biographies, video essays, podcasts, historical fiction or documentaries.
- Are a strong writer and analytical thinker.
- Are interested in national and global events.
Career outcomes
Current job openings
1,829 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Regulatory Affairs Managers • Compliance Managers
$97,250 - Historians
$71,785 - Lawyers
$130,716 - Postsecondary History Teachers
$82,694 - Secondary School Teachers
$78,774
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
Financial aid
Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but U of I’s Financial Aid Office is here to help. Our experienced financial aid counselors can assist you in exploring financial aid options, making informed financial decisions and addressing common concerns.
To maximize aid and scholarship possibilities, be sure to complete your FAFSA. For information on FAFSA deadlines and answers to common questions, visit the University of Idaho FAFSA website.
Plan ahead — estimate your cost of attendance with U of I’s Cost Calculator.
Scholarships
Unlock scholarship opportunities at University of Idaho! When you apply to U of I, you're automatically considered for scholarships. We also offer a variety of scholarships based on experience, background and academic programs that you can apply for to help pay for college.
Explore available scholarships on our Scholarships website.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Hands-on learning
- Freshman introductory research course
- Sophomore methods course
- Senior research capstone seminar
- Independent Study Courses
- Study Abroad
- Internships
- Independent/collaborative research opportunities
- Phi Alpha Theta (History Honor Society)
- Professional travel and presentation at conferences
Internships
- U.S. Senator, the Hon. Richard G. Lugar
- U.S. State Department (Southeast Asian division)
- Idaho State Historical Museum
- County/local historical societies
- Ketchum Community Library
- Idaho Black History Museum
Application information
Undergraduate applications open each September and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.
Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.