Why History at UT Southern?
History isn’t just about memorizing dates and events; it’s about uncovering civilizations, understanding their struggles and triumphs, and connecting this knowledge to our present world. At UT Southern, our History curriculum is designed to foster a deep appreciation for global cultures and diverse perspectives, enriching your understanding of how societies evolve and interact. Perhaps most thrilling, we strive to make the past come alive to inform and shape the future.
Studying History here isn’t just academic—it’s personal. Whether you’re intrigued by the intricacies of ancient cultures or the transformative events of the 20th century, our program offers a rich tapestry of learning experiences. You’ll explore the ideas, dreams, and actions of distant and not-so-distant ancestors that profoundly influence our modern world. Our courses span from in-depth examinations of U.S. history to explorations of global civilizations, ensuring you gain a comprehensive view of humanity’s collective story.
Beyond the classroom, UT Southern empowers History majors with practical skills and immersive opportunities. Imagine interning at local historical societies, diving into regional archives, or contributing to important research projects like digital mapping initiatives of Civil War-era grave sites. Our students have interned in prominent places like the Governor’s Office and the General Assembly, gaining invaluable insight into public service and historic preservation.
A degree in History is a passport to an array of career opportunities. Graduates from our program have pursued work in fields such as education, law, journalism, museum curation, and public service. History majors also develop critical thinking, research proficiency, and communication skills that are highly valued across industries, preparing them to excel in whatever path they choose.
A Word About Minors
A minor in History is possible. Or you could complement your History major with a minor in another field. Check out the Related Programs list and reach out to a program coordinator for more information. Further, while it is not a minor or emphasis area, the UT Southern History program offers a Suggested Curriculum for students interested in law school.
A minor, which is typically eighteen credit hours, is a grouping of courses in a particular academic field of study designed to provide you with expanded knowledge and competency in an area outside your major.
Program Details
Degree Type
Bachelor of Art or Science
Program Coordinator
Ken Vickers
What’s Possible With a Degree in History?
Join us at UT Southern to discover how the past informs the present and gain the knowledge and skills to make a difference.
Career options include:
- Archaeologist
- Archivist
- Business or Corporate Historian
- Curator
- Genealogist
- Historical Preservationist
- Historical Researcher
- Lawyer or Judge
- Librarian
- Policy Analyst
- Politician
- Public Historian
- Teacher or Professor
- Writer or Journalist
The Courses You’ll Take
Both the History major and licensure program require 120 credit hours. The History major requires 51 hours of history courses, with room for a minor. The History Licensure concentration is 39 hours of history courses and 36 hours of Professional Education courses.
History Major Coursework + Recommended Four-Year Plan
History Licensure in Grades 6-12 Concentration Coursework + Recommended Four-Year Plan
History Minor Coursework
Suggested Curriculum (Electives) for Pre-Law Students
Good to Know
Qualified students may be invited to join Phi Alpha Theta, the National History Honor Society, and national conferences to present their research.
Teaching licensure programs are professional programs that require you to apply and be granted admission into the program. You can learn more about these requirements in the UT Southern Course Catalog. Further, Tennessee teacher licensure includes a clinical practice component. This hands-on experience, which lasts fifteen weeks and involves two placements within a 50-mile radius of our campus, prepares you for the challenges and rewards of classroom leadership.
Explore Related Programs
Merit Aid Program: Free Tuition for Qualifying Students
We’re committed to providing access to all! In conjunction with UT Promise, HOPE, the state lottery, and institutional aid, 75% of Tennessee residents qualify to attend UT Southern for free. In addition, approximately 97% of our students are qualified to receive financial aid.
