History Department

History Major

A history student looks into a case displaying a civil war uniform during his internship at Wilson's Creek National Battlefield

Learn the crucial turning points

From ancient empires to modern revolutions, you can know the world's most influential moments.

Why major in history at Missouri State?

 

A student presenting her poster board at National History Day.
  • Specialize in your favorite era – With 20+ faculty members, MSU's history department is one of the largest in the state. This means we can offer you a broad and diverse program in U.S. or world history.
  • Pick the right degree for you – We have a path for everyone. You can choose from a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BA/BS) history degree, and an array of certificates and minors.
  • Be ready for graduate study (or workforce) – History majors go on to pursue graduate degrees (master's, PhD, JD, etc.) or a wide range of careers.
  • Enjoy flexible formats – Plan your schedule around work or other duties. You can take classes in-person, online (on your own time) and via Zoom.

Degree options: History degree (BA/BS)

No academic journey is the same. You can tailor your degree to match your educational and career goals.

Degree plans
Four-year
Review a sample schedule for earning your history degree in four years.
Join the Bears
Transfer resources
Ease your transfer process and become a history major.
Get an early start
Accelerated master's
Take classes that count toward your master’s degree and bachelor’s degree (major). Finish with two degrees, sooner.
Enhance your degree
History minor
Already have a major? A history minor is very valuable if you want to pursue law, politics or public service.

What classes can you take?

As a history major, you can choose from a wide variety of classes across U.S. and world history.

African History

American Expansion and Empire

Ancient Egypt

Civil War and Reconstruction

Communism in Eastern Europe

Environmental History

Gender and Sexuality in Modern East Asia

Global Terrorism

History of Baseball

History of East Asia

History of Fascism

History of Missouri

Medieval Europe

Military History of the United States

Nationalism, Sectarianism, and Conflict in the Middle East

Ozarks History

Piracy in the Americas

Plagues and Pandemics

Secondary Education

The American Revolution

The Automobile in American Life

The Plains Indians

And many more!

Explore history classes

A pre-law student looks up to smile while taking notes from two big textbooks.
Careers and Outcomes
Explore your potential career paths
Through the history major, you can enrich your skill-set and world knowledge. Become a better researcher, writer and problem-solver.
Internships

Get hands-on experience

Internships are a great way to see history come alive. They also give you great preparation for your future endeavors.
Two students working at a historical site during an archaeological dig.
Alumni spotlight

Engaging with the world

Asa Leininger used his double-major in history and theatre to enter the Peace Corps.
Asa Leininger holding his Peace Corps Prep certificate
Explore a similar program

Want to teach history?

The history education major will certify you to teach history/social studies for grades 6-12.

Immersive academics

Advisement
Find academic help and guidance
Courses
Search department courses
Estimated costs
Put your education within financial reach
Transfer credit
Bring college credit with you to MSU

Helping you succeed

A student studying on his laptop in Meyer Library.
Scholarships and financial aid

Find support for your education

Two students helping set up a research display for National History Day.
Student Organizations and Events

Get involved on and off campus

A student views an exhibit of the Magna Carta at a display on campus.
Facilities and Resources

Explore your places to study and learn

Dr. Bukola Oyeniyi, associate professor in the history department, teaches a class.
Faculty and staff

Meet your department