A Study of History

by Robyn Tellefsen
History is the study and research of major cultural, economic, political, and social events of the past, and it provides a perspective on events that have shaped our world. The study of history involves exploring issues of diversity within both a national and global context, and engaging intellectually in the confrontation of ideas, values, and people groups.

Historical Background
The discipline of history trains the mind and the imagination. Through exercises in critical thinking, reading, and writing, history hones the skills of discernment and synthesis. History confronts us with cultures, places, times, and worlds in ways we may have never considered.

Studying the origins of racism, the effectiveness of government policies, the evolution of gender roles, and the ongoing interaction among nations and civilizations are all examples of the depth and breadth of a history major.

Skills of a History Major
The study of history develops two vital skills in particular. First, the study of history sharpens your ability to recognize and analyze the complex changes in the economy, government, and society. History helps you understand major human events and accomplishments such as the rise and fall of civilizations, the roots of cultural differences, and the evolution of science and technology. Second, the study of history hones your ability to organize and express the results in written form.

These skills are useful in many positions in business, education, journalism, law, public administration, and social service, to name a few. A history major also provides preparation for a career in archival management, historical presentation, library science, museum studies, and secondary-level social studies teaching.

Careers in History
Traditional history courses focus on areas such as global history, European history, U.S. history, and premodern civilization. For optimum career preparation, it may be beneficial to supplement your history major with such technical courses as journalism, government, or business.

With a bachelor's degree in history, you might become an assistant museum curator, history teacher, legal assistant, legislative correspondent, or political editor. With an advanced degree in history, you might become an archivist, art historian, foreign service worker, historic site administrator, lawyer, or librarian.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of historians is expected to increase 8 percent between 2006 and 2016. Historians had median annual earnings of $48,520 in May 2006.

Earn a degree in history, and discover where the world has been and where it's going.



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