History
Explore the Past to Shape Your Future
The history major at WSU Vancouver invites you to investigate the people, societies and ideas that form our global community. Studying history is like traveling without leaving home, offering a doorway to different perspectives and an understanding of how our current world came to be. Through this program, you develop critical skills to build a better future together while learning to analyze the past with a curious, analytical mindset.
Students in the program focus on the mechanics of historical events, exploring the how and why behind major global shifts. You learn to conduct deep research, write with precision and analyze complex evidence across a variety of media. This academic foundation prepares you to communicate effectively and think critically in any career path.
Our small classes are taught by award-winning faculty members who bring their global research passions directly into the classroom. Faculty research areas span the Pacific Northwest and United States history as well as the peoples of Africa, China, Europe, the Middle East and Latin America. Courses also explore critical historical perspectives on the environment, slavery, gender and sexuality, ensuring a comprehensive and engaging education.
Skills You Will Gain
A bachelor of arts degree in history from WSU Vancouver equips you with versatile skills for professional success. Through this coursework, you will learn to:
- Identify and state problems of historical analysis
- Understand the difference between fact and interpretation
- Identify and use information appropriate for historical research
- Communicate effectively with a variety of audiences
- Recognize the contested nature of evidence and the value of historical scholarly debate
- Show awareness of change over time
- Understand the present in the context of history