A bachelor’s degree in history promises not just a knowledge of the past, but also an array of versatile and valuable skills that employers in many fields are looking for. History students at Wayne State conduct exciting research in archives, in Detroit and across the world. They learn to evaluate and interpret evidence, think critically, and communicate clearly and persuasively. They have opportunities to intern at museums and archives and to showcase their research at conferences and in public exhibits. Many students pair their History education with double-majors and minors in a range of other disciplines such as anthropology, biological sciences, English, and political science. That interdisciplinary grounding combined with critical analysis, which lies at the heart of historical inquiry, prepares students for a host of different careers. Our alumni have put their talents and skills to use in a range of professions, including in business, education, museums, public policy, intelligence, the nonprofit sector, publishing, and tourism. A history degree also provides a strong foundation for graduate work in the social sciences and humanities, and for professional programs in law and medicine.
Located in the heart of Detroit's Cultural Center, Wayne State is the ideal place to study history! Detroit's rich local history and world-class archives offer an unparalleled opportunity to learn about our city's storied past and examine the complex political, social, and cultural history of the United States. Courses on Europe, Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East – as well as WSU's study abroad programs – encourage students to explore the world. Undergraduate courses are taught by world-renowned and award-winning faculty who are experts in their fields. Our program emphasizes both rigorous scholarship and public engagement. All of our students have opportunities to conduct original research, develop cutting-edge digital skills, and gain hands-on experience through internships.
Admission requirements for this program are satisfied by the general requirements for undergraduate admission to the University.
Law and the LawStart program
History is a common major for students interested in pursuing a law degree. Students interested in Law are encouraged to consider the LawStart program, which allows students to combine work on the B.A. and J.D. in the fourth year, saving a year in earning both degrees.
Non-Profit Management of Historical Agencies
Many history majors pursue careers in public history or in business and industry. A minor in business administration can help prepare majors for managing non-profit historical agencies as well as serve as background for an M.B.A. program.
Pre-Med Curriculum
With the current shift toward STEM disciplines, students are finding that combining a major in History may give their med school applications a second look by providing a more well-rounded undergraduate experience. Students interested in attending medical school are encouraged to look into the MedStart Program.
Teaching History at the High School Level
Majors who are interested in teaching History to teens rather than adults often pursue a B.A. in history and an M.A.T. through the College of Education. Students may need a provisional certificate to teach while earning their graduate education degree, depending on the setting.
Archives, Museums, and Libraries
Many of our alumni are employed as archivists, museum curators, or librarians in historical collections. Wayne State offers a nationally-recognized graduate certificate in Archival Administration, which can be undertaken on its own or in conjunction with a master's in History or a master's in Library and Information Science.
Continuing on in History
Undergraduate majors in History are often looking forward to graduate studies and becoming a professional historian, doing research and teaching in a university setting. Student pursuing this option should be aware that and overall GPA of at least a 3.00 and a major GPA of at least 3.25 is required to be competitive for admission to graduate school. Students who intend to complete an M.A. at Wayne State before moving to another institution for the Ph.D. are encouraged to undertake the AGRADE program, which allows majors to double-count up to 16 hours of undergraduate coursework for their graduate degree.
Candidates must complete 120 credits in course work including satisfaction of the University General Education Requirements and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Group Requirements, as well as the departmental major requirements cited below. All course work must be completed in accordance with the regulations of the University and the College governing undergraduate scholarship and degrees.
Students must complete thirty-six credits in History (which may include a maximum of 18 transfer credits). Specific requirements are as follows: