History

If you think history is just facts, figures and timelines, think again. Historical analysis explores motivations, morals and habits; it evaluates conflicting narratives, as well as continuity and change over time. Our insights inform today’s business decisions, government policies and societal values. As a historian, you will learn to develop sophisticated answers to complex real world questions.

Carroll University’s History program gives you the tools to explain not just what happened, but also why, how, and who cares. Our flexible curriculum encourages interdisciplinary study, incorporates ne-on-one mentoring, and supports independent research.

“We make our world a better place by understanding it.”
— Rachael Meyer '18

Read Rachael's story

About the History Major

Study of the past prepares you for a bright future. It’s a cliché, but true: A history degree opens doors to a wide variety of professional paths. Recent graduates have gone on to pursue careers in business, law, library sciences, business, teaching and even at the National Archives in Washington D.C. Our scaffolded courses train you to consider multiple perspectives, develop evidence-based arguments, and work independently. Small classes challenge you to speak up, ask questions, and defend positions. And according to the AACU’s 2015 study, 91 percent of employers seek applicants who’ve mastered these skills.

Outside the classroom, you’ll find a friendly community of students and faculty that is active both on and off campus. History majors support state-wide and national initiatives (National History Day, for example), conduct individual research, present work at conferences, and network via internships and social events. The 36-credit major is explicitly designed to accommodate double majors and pre-professional students—you can even complete Physical Therapy or med school requirements as a history major! The major also complements both short-term and semester-long study abroad—an experience highly valued by more than three quarters of employers.

Become a Social Studies Teacher

Pairing the history major with Carroll’s secondary education major can lead to certification by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction to teach social studies in high school and middle school. Your coursework will provide you with depth in your major while also preparing you to teach multiple disciplines in the social sciences.

Minor

Are you the kind of person who often asks, "Why?" Do you spend time on eBay, in antique stores or with the family photo albums? Have you wondered how to stand out to future employers or graduate schools? Perhaps you just wish you could communicate more effectively. These are all great reasons to  add a History minor!

In addition to the major, Carroll offers a minor in history that complements many areas of study. History minors often have majors in:

Internships

We help you build real world experience, explore careers and network with professionals through internship opportunities. Recent placements include the following companies:

  • Smithsonian Museum
  • Waukesha County Historical Society and Museum
  • Milwaukee County Historical Society and Museum
  • Old World Wisconsin
  • R&R Insurance
  • Assorted state-wide political campaigns

Careers

College is a big investment in a bright future. Learn more about the industries and careers our majors pursue, and the workplaces and experiences of the alumni from our program. See where yours may take you.

Career Insight

Milwaukee named third best market for recent college grads

Online financial resources site SmartAsset notes affordability, fun and strong momentum in Midwestern region 

Learn More

Latest Program News

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History Students Learn to Find and Tell Stories

7/29/2020

History is the recording and the telling of stories. And in Carroll’s history classes, students each year learn to find and tell those stories. They make history.

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Dr. Markwyn named Benjamin F. Richason, Jr. Faculty Award Winner

4/13/2018

Dr. Abigail Markwyn named recipient of Carroll's Benjamin F. Richason, Jr. Faculty Award

More Resources

Meet the Faculty

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