History
Engaging in the Major
The History major at Brigham Young University teaches students to think critically, write effectively, and understand the complexities of the human experience through a gospel-centered lens. By exploring global, national, and local histories, students develop strong analytical and research skills while gaining insight into how the past shapes the present. The program prepares graduates for careers in education, law, public service, business, and more, fostering informed, ethical individuals who contribute meaningfully to their communities and the world.
Competencies and Careers
Competencies Developed in the Program
The History program helps students develop key career competencies such as Critical Thinking, Research and Analysis, Communication, and Cultural Navigation, which are highly valued across a wide range of professions. Want to know more about these professional competencies? Career Readiness
Common Career Fields
History students can use their degree to pursue careers in many fields. Some of those include: Business Management, Education/Research, Health Care, Finance, Social Service/Public Policy, Military, etc.
Meet with Your Advisor
Would you like to know more about the program to see if it’s a good fit for your goals? Would you like to know more about your career options? Do you have a career option in mind but you’d like resources to help you chart a path toward that goal? Come meet with your Academic and Professional Development Manager, Heather Lagrosa-Farr.
Contact the Liberal Arts Advisement Center to set up an appointment.
Meet with Your Career Director
Your Career Director can help you get connected to alumni, find companies that hare hiring, hone your resume, and strategically look for jobs. Set up an appointment with Amanda Peterson here.
Recommended Course Progression
Course order:
Here are few tips for making the most of your first semesters in the History program:
Start with HIST 200, 201, and/or 202 (HIST 201 & 202 will count towards your GE requirement as well)
Think about which regional areas you would like to take your history elective coursework from
- You will need to choose at least 3 of the 7 regions: Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, Middle East, United States, World and Thematic
Course substitutions:
If you need a course substitution or need help planning your courses, contact the Liberal Arts Advisement Center.
Grad Plans:
If you would like help creating a grad plan, consider meeting with an undergraduate specialist at the Liberal Arts Advisement Center.
Funding & Internships
Should I do an internship?
Internships are encouraged! They vary widely, based on students' career path of choice!. If you are curious about which internship options are a good fit for you, reach out to your academic and professional development manager, Heather Lagrosa-Farr, or career director, Amanda Peterson.
Resources to Find Internships:
- Washington Seminar
- Handshake
- On-Campus Internships
- History Internship Coordinator: Alison Sondrup
Funding for Internships:
The College of FHSS offers tuition scholarships. You can find out about the scholarship options and apply here: FHSS Financial Aid
FHSS Internship Grants
Funding for Study Abroad Programs:
There are great study abroad programs that vary by year. Find Your Program through the Kennedy Center.
College of Humanities Tuition Scholarships:
The College of Humanities offers tuition scholarships. You can find out about the scholarship options and apply here: Humanities Financial Aid
University Financial Aid Options:
There are many resources to help you fund your tuition and experiences at BYU. The Financial Aid Office can help!
Campus Resources
- FHSS Writing Lab
- History Department: For course questions, faculty contacts, and more, contact the History Department.
- Pre-Professional Advisement: For pre-med or pre-law resources, contact the Pre-Professional Advisement Center.
- Handshake Internships and Job Board: To search internships and jobs that match your interests and skills, use Handshake.
- Kennedy Center: For International Study programs and funding, contact the BYU Kennedy Center.
- Career Director: To get help searching for and applying to jobs, plus connecting with employers and alumni, meet with Amanda Peterson.
- Course Descriptions and offerings: To check out which classes will be offered in the upcoming semester, use the BYU Class Search.
Getting Involved
FAQ's
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Toggle ItemI would like some help exploring my career options, who can help?
BYU Exploration Point is a great place to start:
https://universityadvisement.byu.edu/exploration-point -
Toggle ItemWhich minors do History students usually have?
The History major pairs well with many minors! Depending on your career goals, you might choose: Civic Engagement Leadership, Philosophy, Statistics, Business, Global Women’s Studies, Biology, or Legal Studies. You can check out all of the minors BYU offers in the BYU Catalog.
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Toggle ItemI think a class from my previous major could count for my History emphasis. How can I find out?
Contact the History Undergraduate Coordinator Dr. Richard Kimball to see if the course meets the learning outcomes for a similar History course. If so, the Liberal Arts Advisement Center can enter a course substitution for you.
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Toggle ItemI have a hold on my account. Who can help me get it removed?
If it is an AIP hold, please meet with your academic and professional development manager, Heather Lagrosa-Farr, to get that hold removed. Contact the Liberal Arts Advisement Center to set up an appointment with her.
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Toggle ItemWhere can I get help with papers, homework, and studying?
- FHSS Writing Lab
- BYU RWC (Research and writing center)
- Y serve tutors
- TA Labs
- Peer Academic Study Specialists (PASS)