The History Major At Muhlenberg

The history major at Muhlenberg has recently been revised. The major is designed to introduce the students to the principles of historical study, to provide them with the tools to become an effective researcher and writer, and to deepen their knowledge and understanding of the past. Significant emphasis is put on reading original texts and scholarship written by historians. Most courses also emphasize the interpretation of the past and the ability to present one's analysis in persuasive prose.

Students are required to take three courses: History 100: An Introduction to History (a one-semester topical course that will introduce the study of history), History 400: Historical Method (which emphasizes research and writing), and History 500 (to 549): History Seminar. In addition, students are required to take six advanced courses, with at least one course in each area of study (European, American, or Non-Western) and one course whose content falls before 1789. Minors are required to take History 100, 400, 500 (to 549), and three advanced courses.

The History Department offers two variations on the basic history major. First, students seeking social science certification in secondary education are required to take History 100, 400, 500 (to 549), and five advanced courses. In addition, there are six courses in the social sciences required by the Education Department. Second, in cooperation with the Political Science Department, the History Department offers a History/Government major. History/Government majors are required to take 100, 225, 525 or a seminar in Political Science, with three History courses paired with appropriate Political Science courses plus electives.

The History Department attempts to offer a wide range of advanced courses its strengths are in the Ancient History, European History from the medieval period to the present, Latin America, and the United States. Courses are also offered in Asian History. Most advanced history courses are offered every other year.