Bachelor of Arts - History

University of Minnesota Duluth's (UMD) History program provides students with analytical and communication skills that they can put into practice through rigorous coursework and an array of optional internships in public and private sector jobs. History students critically examine past decisions, look for patterns, and make decisions accordingly. These skills are sought after in business, law, public policy, government, education, non-profit organizations, museums, journalism, and the ministry.

The history program offers students two tracks: General History or Public History. The General History track introduces students to major world cultures and provides students with the skills to work critically with a diverse array of source materials in different media. The Public History track prepares students to adapt and apply skills in history to private and public audiences on the local, state, and national levels. Both tracks offer courses in five geographic areas. UMD aims to allow students to gain insight into the histories and cultures of places beyond borders, making them that much more prepared to succeed within an increasingly global society and marketplace – both in the public and private sector. 

Acquired Skills

History majors develop:

• strong oral and written communication skills
• skills in another language
• analytical, creative, and critical thinking skills
• an understanding of diverse cultures

The History major prepares students for careers in government and business, journalism, and teaching; the study of law; and graduate study in history, library and information science, and related fields.

Career Possibilities

The Department of History, Political Science & International Studies at UMD is devoted to providing students with analytical skills that are vital for their future successes and for those of society. It prepares students for careers that demand analytical and communication skills, critical thinking, and cultural breadth. These careers include law, business, consultancy, journalism, teaching, government, the ministry, and the museum and public humanities world. The department responds to the continued - and specifically stated - desire for history majors and history double-majors from large business employers in and out of state.