Introduction
Most students are required to study history in both elementary and secondary schools. At that level, students often are given the impression that the study of history simply requires memorization of names, dates, and other facts about events in the past. At the college level, however, the study of history facilitates the development of research, analytical, evaluative, and interpretive skills. History majors learn how to locate and access a wide range of sources, to analyze historical evidence, including textual and visual sources, to evaluate historical interpretations, and to develop and support their own interpretations. The emphasis on writing and discussion required in history courses also helps students to develop effective communication skills.
Why Consider a History Major?
If you like to read, write, and learn about the experiences of people in different places and times, you should consider the history major. No other major prepares students for as many different careers. History majors’ strong communication skills are valued by all employers, including businesses and government agencies. The research, analytical, and evaluative skills that history majors develop prepare them for graduate study in many humanistic disciplines, public affairs, and library science and for careers as journalists, government officials, and attorneys. A growing number of history majors have made careers in the expanding field of public history. They work in museums, archives, and historical preservation.
Student Resources
Department website: History
Contact information: Bond Hall 364, 360-650-3457, history@wwu.edu
Department advising: Admitted and/or current students visit the Advising section of the History website.
Degree Works: Current students should also log on to Degree Works to check student-specific program progress.
Career Services Center: Connect major to a career
Sample careers: Foreign Service Officer, Attorney, Government Official, Journalist, Business Manager, Social Studies Teacher, Historical Consultant, Museum Professional, Government Historian, Librarian, Archivist, Cultural Resource Manager, Curator, Video/Media Producer, Historic Preservationist, Policy Advisor
How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):
Category of Major : Open major
Open majors can be declared by new and continuing students in good standing without additional requirements. All students are eligible for Direct Admission to Major at the time of admission to the university, subject to space availability.
Students who began their studies at WWU before the 2026-2027 academic year may declare their major by completing the Student Academic Declaration & Change Form and meeting the major’s retention requirements (if applicable).
Students are strongly encouraged to meet with a History advisor when they want to declare.
Grade Requirements
A minimum GPA in history courses of 2.50 is required for graduation. No course with a grade of less than C- may be counted toward this major.
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