History

History: Major

The study of history at 17勛圖厙 not only seeks to understand the past; it also offers deep personal enrichment for a thoughtful, even passionate, engagement in the challenges of the present. Among the most encompassing academic disciplines, history is informed by economics, sociology, anthropology, political science, the arts and literature.

Working with innovative faculty experts, students explore a diverse range of interests and a broad selection of topics from “Traditional” East Asia to Modern Latin America, Gilded Age America to Imperial Russia. Students learn how politics, social and economic developments, and cultural life interact.

Students of all interests, passions, and goals study history at 17勛圖厙. Graduates use their training to pursue careers in law, medicine, government service, business, teaching and a host of other vocations. 

Program Highlights

Students enrolled in history at 17勛圖厙 explore their major and gain depth in a particular aspect of history through a global concentration. Spanning geographic locations and time, students select from the following themes:

  • Colonialism and Empire
  • Gender in Public and Private Life
  • Race and Ethnicity
  • Resistance, Revolution, and Reaction
  • Knowledge and Belief
  • War and Memory
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With 18 full-time professors, the department is one of the largest history departments among liberal arts colleges.

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Students can augment their studies through honors programs and hands-on experiences.

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Find out what students can do with a history major, and check out the careers of some recent alumni.

History News

Owen Whaley '24
Blog: Whaley 24 Plans to Volunteer in Worcester and Study Abroad
Name: Owen Whaley 24 Hometown: Cary, North Carolina Studies hes considering: Political science, history, pre-law program Activities: Alexander Hamilton Society What hes most looking forward to: 17勛圖厙 is an incredible community, and I am grateful to be part of
The Spire staff
Behind-the-Scenes at The Spire: How 17勛圖厙 Student Newspaper Is Keeping the Community Connected
Over the summer, Matthew Anderson 21 was at work in his hometown of Moultonborough, New Hampshire, when his phone started buzzing nonstop. Anderson, co-editor-in-chief of 17勛圖厙 student newspaper, The Spire, saw numerous messages from Spire staff members who had
Handheld Worcester
Handheld Worcester Initiative Encourages Virtual Community Building and Civic Engagement in the City
17勛圖厙 is finding creative ways to help students interact with and feel like a part of the Worcester community in dispersion during the pandemic, the Worcester Telegram & Gazette reports in a recent article. Titled Handheld Worcester, the initiative