SCHOOL OF HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES
History Major (HSTBA)
Program Chair: Dr. Eric Corty
814-898-6238; ewc2@psu.edu
Welcome to Penn State Behrend’s history program website!
A history major prepares students for a broad array of careers in fields that value research experience, analytical skill, and the ability to write well. History is the oldest liberal arts discipline and retains its value today in forming versatile, well-rounded individuals with the core skills needed to adapt to a rapidly changing world. Behrend history program graduates commonly go on to work in education, museums, the law, and business or to pursue advanced degrees in history and related disciplines.
History majors at Penn State Erie build a solid foundation in the broad sweep of American, European, and non-Western history through introductory survey courses in their first years of study. After mastering the basics, they proceed to more specialized advanced courses in which they study a specific topic or period in depth and conduct their own historical research. Our program’s current strengths are in the histories of America, East Asia, Europe, and the Ancient Middle East. We are conducting a search in the 2008-2009 academic year to hire a historian of modern Africa and/or the Middle East.
The History program stresses both traditional and innovative methods of research, including the analysis of written records, material artifacts, and visual culture. Majors are encouraged to think critically, explore the fundamental determinants of human behavior, and develop effective research and writing skills. Study of the past requires the most modern tools: research and coursework are enhanced by the latest computer technologies.
In addition to basic coursework, the history program offers opportunities for students to embark on independent study to complete original research projects or gain hands-on public history experience by interning with a history-related institution. As an encouragement to student research, the best research paper is rewarded every academic year with the endowed Dr. John Rossi Excellence in Undergraduate Research Award.