BA in History
DURATION
4 Years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Request application deadline
EARLIEST START DATE
Jan 2026
TUITION FEES
USD 8,721 *
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
* out-of-state / in-state: $4,445 / metro: $7,260
Introduction
At its essence, the History major explores how the present is shaped by the past. It entails the study of human interaction and its evolution, particularly through its manifestation in civilization and culture, which prepares students to live as informed citizens in today’s world. A degree in History is not just about memorizing dates and places. Rather, the History major includes comparing and conceptualizing issues, interpreting historical documents and records, developing various methods of historical research, and evaluating evidence. Its approach is interdisciplinary, with students examining war, economics, politics, gender, culture, geography, sciences, and many more fields. Through historical study, students develop a broad range of skills that translate readily into a wide range of careers and other endeavors. Specifically, the History major fosters proficiency in critical thinking and analysis, communication, writing, and technology usage. While developing these skills, students will also have opportunities for internships and study abroad experiences.
Program Requirements
There are no entry requirements to join the History degree program here at West Liberty University. However, every student must successfully finish a capstone research course before the degree will be conferred. This course entails the completion of a journal-length research article and the presentation of this paper before a faculty committee.
Depending upon each student’s area of interest, prospective History degree seekers will work individually with the faculty members whose research areas intersect those of the student. This individual attention by the faculty permits greater guidance and support in an effort to meet the professional standards of the discipline of History.
Students must also have an overall G.P.A. of 2.0 or higher in all of their completed courses.
Ideal Students
If you are driven to understand how the world works, how it came to its present situation, and more importantly how to take the lessons of the past and apply them towards solving the problems of the future, then a degree in history might be for you. You will be required to read a variety of styles of literature, work hard, question authority, and learn how to think for yourself rather than simply repeating the information of the past. Historical scholarship requires self-discipline and a dedication to “reading between the lines” in order to uncover the hidden meaning behind authors’ intentions. Furthermore, an eye for detail, a creative mind, and a desire to understand the results of human interaction are keys to success in history.
Admissions
Curriculum
Required Courses
- HIST 103 History of Civilization I
- HIST 104 History of Civilization II
- HIST 210 History of U.S. I to 1876
- HIST 211 History of U.S. II since 1876
- HIST 300 Methods of Historical Studies
- HIST 480 Capstone
Choose 9 hours from the following:
- Any 300-400 HIST (American)
- Any 300-400 HIST (European)
- Any 300-400 HIST (Non-Western/Global)
Choose 9 hours from the following:
- Any 300-400 HIST
History Minor
Choose 9 hours from the following:
- Any 300-400 HIST
Choose 6 hours from the following:
- Any HIST
Program Tuition Fee
English Language Requirements
Certify your English proficiency with PTE. The faster, fairer, simpler English test, accepted by thousands of universities around the world. PTE, Do it worry-free!