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College of Humanities and Social Sciences

​​History​

History equips students to interrogate the past and develop critical thinking and analytical skills useful in a range of careers.

Related programs
​​SHSU students study outside on a beautiful Texas day.​
Degree
  • Bachelor of Arts
  • Bachelor of Science
Location
  • Huntsville
  • Online
Type of Instruction
  • Online
  • Face to Face
Length

4 Years

exploring the past for your future  

 

The Department of History is one of the largest producers of undergraduate history majors anywhere in the nation.

Students may pursue the traditional Bachelor of Arts in History, but students anticipating medical school may seek a Bachelor of Science in History, together with the Medical and Health Humanities minor. Students interested in museum careers may pursue a for-credit internship with one of more than a dozen regional partners, including our very own Sam Houston Memorial Museum on campus.

Our faculty of award-winning scholar-teachers has produced more than twenty books and dozens of articles in the last decade. With research strengths in fields ranging from war and memory to religion and politics, the Department of History is committed to innovative scholarship, student engagement, and pedagogical excellence.

Opportunities, our state-of-the-art curriculum, and small class sizes truly set the department apart, making SHSU a great place to study history.

​​What’s the Difference Between the Two Degrees?​ 

​​The Bachelor of Science (BS) requires additional hours of a social science (e.g., psychology, sociology, political science, communication studies, etc.), whereas the Bachelor of Arts (BA) requires additional hours of a foreign language (e.g., Spanish, French, American Sign, etc.).​ 

When can I apply?​ 
  • Fall semester applications due August 1
  • Spring semester applications due December 15
  • Summer applications due May 15
The History Department boasts a prominent faculty and nationally recognized program, offering flexible courses that enable students to gain deeper insights into the past.

​​Distinguish Yourself​

The History Department at Sam Houston State University is rapidly growing, featuring a distinguished faculty. Our nationally ranked program offers flexible courses and produces many History majors. The BA and BS degrees prepare students to analyze the past and appreciate human multiplicity, providing context for the present and future.

  • Internships

    Those interested in a public history or museum career have the option to explore internship and professional development opportunities through the department. SHSU hosts the Sam Houston Memorial Museum on its campus. Contact Professor Zachary Doleshal for more information. 

  • Journal of Southern History

    The Department is the co-editorial home (with Rice University) of The Journal of Southern History, the field’s scholarly journal of record. This partnership provides students with peerless opportunities to complete editorial internships and work with leading scholars.

  • Civil War Consortium

    Students interested in the U.S. Civil War can also benefit from the work of our Civil War Consortium, which hosts an annual public conference and other events.

Minors

Not sure if a History major is the right fit for you? Explore our Minor in History or Minor in Medical Humanities and Social Sciences!

The History minor offers a flexible way to study the past while strengthening your research, writing, and analytical skills—skills that are valuable in any field. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of how historical events shape the world we live in today and develop a global perspective that complements a wide range of majors.

The Medical Humanities and Social Sciences minor blends history, ethics, culture, and health studies, offering a humanistic perspective on medicine and society. It’s an excellent choice for students interested in healthcare, public policy, or any field that benefits from understanding the social and cultural dimensions of well-being.

Discover how these minors can enrich your education, broaden your perspective, and enhance your future career opportunities.

History scholarship opportunities

Dr. James S. Olson History Endowed Scholarship
Award $1,000

Dr. Joan L. Coffey Endowed Scholarship
Award $1,000

Dr. Tracy L. Steele History Endowed Scholarship
Award Varies

Ingrid Scholarship
Award $2,000

Joan Verrilli Endowed Scholarship
Award $1,000

John and Louie Payne Endowed Scholarship
Award $3,000

John Payne History Endowed Scholarship
Award $1,000

Lee Olm and Elizabeth Olm 2076 Endowed Scholarship
Award $10,000

Lynn Ray Smith Memorial History Endowed Scholarship
Award $1,000

Rather-Powell American History Endowed Scholarship (Ben H. Powell Scholarship)
Award $1,000

Roger Olson Endowed Scholarship
Award $1,000

​​The Huntsville community gathers for March to the Grave.​

​​Discover Your Future​

A history degree provides myriad career options, such as roles in education, law, documentary editing, corporate and contract history, archivist or records management, and museum curation.

​​SHSU students engage in conversation on campus.​

Learn From Our Outstanding Faculty

Our nationally recognized and award-winning professors bring extensive educational and research experience, demonstrating their commitment to excellence in teaching.

Become a Bearkat

Ready to see what a degree can do for you or to start your application to SHSU? Our Admissions team is here to help.