History at the University of Idaho

As an academic major, history provides, firstly, a broad and general view of human development, and secondly, a rigorous training of the mind. History is not the memorization of names and dates; it is the study of the human experience in all aspects. An understanding of the past is essential to interpreting the present and to envisioning the future. History is by nature interdisciplinary and multi-cultural. Each course trains students to think, evaluate problems, and to reach logical conclusions. Special attention is given to the development of analytical and writing skills through essay examinations and research projects. The study of history provides a broad, general view of human development from the beginning of recorded time to the present. Emphasis is on intellectual and cultural values and activities in political, social, economic, and religious institutions. A major in history can be used in government and military service, international relations, tourism and recreation, the new specialty of public history, areas in business and industry, and many other fields. It can also be used in preparation for study of the law, the ministry, and archival work and librarianship.