History

Daniel J. Walther, Chair; Terrence J. Lindell

Intended Student Learning Outcomes

History Major

Students will:

demonstrate perceptive reading, summarizing, critical thinking, and intelligent articulation skills in research projects.
demonstrate the ability to conduct research using primary materials.
analyze a variety of historical approaches in secondary sources.
create a code of ethics based upon professional standards used by historians.
utilize knowledge of the past in order to respond to phenomena in the present.
demonstrate knowledgeable oral communication and information literacy skills.
recognize different cultural worldviews, values, and norms through the use of primary sources.

The one-month May Term allows study through off-campus trips such as HI 320 Investigating Germany’s Past Abroad . Internships provide experience in the growing field of public history. A concentration in public history is an option for students pursuing the history major .

An honors in history designation is noted on the academic transcript for students who successfully complete HI 462 Honors Research Seminar with a grade of B or higher and maintain both a major and cumulative GPA of 3.5.

High-Impact Learning Experiences

All history major must have at least one high-impact educational experience to complete the requirements of the major. Below is a list of experiences that could satisfy the requirement. Some are in the context of coursework in required or elective credits. Others are experiences outside the classroom.

The department underscores the importance of reflection in participating in one of these activities. Students consult with their academic advisor and their co-curricular advisor to choose an appropriate experience.

Off-campus study: May Term travel course, study abroad term, or Des Moines Urban Studies Program
Internship or student teaching
Presentation of a paper at a recognized scholarly conference
Research experience beyond the research requirement for a standard course
College service trips
Service-learning projects
Leadership in a campus organization

Programs

History, B.A.

History Minor

History Teaching

For additional information on teaching majors and endorsements, see Education Department listings.