History (B.A.)

History is the study of the changing character of civilization on all levels, including the economic, political, social, cultural, intellectual, and religious, and, as such, provides a fundamental context for liberal arts education. This far-ranging nature of the discipline enables History majors to pursue many careers including those in law, government service, business, education, or pastoral ministry. The Barry History program offers particular specializations in the modern U.S., Latin America, and Medieval and Modern Europe.

History students have opportunities to participate in scholarly activities through membership in Barry University’s local Xi Kappa chapter of Phi Alpha Theta, the international honor society for history.

Learning Goals and Objectives

The history curriculum is designed so that majors will develop an understanding of the discipline of history, including methodology and historiography, as well as the centrality of history in the human experience. The major area learning goals support and complement the university’s mission as described in the institution’s mission statement.

The study of history encourages the acquisition of knowledge in order to develop specific skills and competencies including the following:

  • selection and analysis of historical information
  • critical thinking
  • historical research skills
  • an understanding of different philosophies of history
  • analytical and persuasive writing skills

Graduation Requirements

  1. Earn a minimum grade of C in all major courses;
  2. Complete HIS 487 as an integrative experience
  3. Complete department-approved exit examination.

Bachelor of Arts (120 credits)

Students who complete a single major without a minor must complete 42 credits in history, excluding HIS 150.

Students who complete a History major combined with another major or minor must complete 33 credits

Distribution/General Education Requirements

Required Courses (21 credits)

HIS-101WESTERN CIVILIZATION I

3

HIS-102WESTERN CIVILIZATION II

3

HIS-201U.S. PEOPLE & IDEAS I

3

HIS-202U.S. PEOPLE & IDEAS II

3

HIS-487SENIOR SEMINAR

3

GEO-301WORLD ENVIRONMENTS, PEOPLE AND PLACES

3

MAT-152ELEMENTARY PROBABILITY AND STATISTICS

3

Additional Courses (15 credits)

Minimum of 15 additional credits in upper level courses, including 6 credits of 400‑level