In addition to having the region’s most affordable tuition, we offer thousands of dollars in scholarships every year. Learn more about scholarships and aid as you pursue a History degree.
History Degree
About the History Degree
The work of a historian is to reconstruct and analyze the past, using texts, artifacts, and images that exist today. Through the study of the past, we come to understand our present and can help shape the future. Historians are story tellers, writers, and leaders. A History degree from Wayne State College will prepare you to analyze data, solve problems, and communicate effectively - highly-sought skills for employers. Graduates of our History degree program understand the past that brought us into the modern world. Because history gives you a broad, solid foundation, your career opportunities are countless. A History degree will prepare you well to face the future in a wide variety of career paths. You could teach, work in a museum, go on to study law, or even find success in business. History majors have low unemployment rates relative to other popular majors and comparable annual earnings to all majors with a bachelor’s degree.
Percent of recent WSC graduates employed or in graduate school
based on the most recent graduate survey
Fast Facts
Degrees offered: B.A. or B.S. in History/Social Sciences
Hours required:
For major: 42
General education: 30
To graduate from WSC: 120
Recommended minors: Political Science, Geography, Criminal Justice, Journalism, Philosophy, Pre-Law, Sociology, Business Administration, Public and Global Health, Geospatial Technology, Travel and Tourism, Spanish, Computer Science, Graphic Design
School: Arts and Humanities
Department: History, Politics, and Geography
History Degree Results and Outcomes
Wayne State has the keys to your success and offers just what you need to become well prepared for the real world in the History degree program.
Skills Learned
- Analysis of contemporary events based on historical precedent
- Ability to argue effectively with evidence
- Creative problem-solving
- Culturally sensitive communication skills
- Workplace adaptability
- Research and writing techniques
- Critical thinking
Possible Careers
- Education professionals
- Management in a variety of fields
- Law
- Librarian
- Administrator
- Sales
- Public history
- Researcher
- Curator
- Archivist
- Travel and tourism
- Writer/author
Employers
- Schools, colleges, and universities
- Private businesses
- Law firms
- Libraries
- Public institutions
- State and national parks
- Think tanks
- Nonprofit organizations
- Consultancy firms
- State and federal agencies
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Learn From the Best
Our faculty are accomplished professionals that have been recognized as experts in their fields. With a low student-to-faculty ratio, you'll be sure to receive an excellent education in the History degree program.
Outside the Classroom
At Wayne State College, you’ll have opportunities to enhance your education by participating in clubs, organizations, internships, and more.
Clubs and Organizations
- Phi Alpha Theta (National History Honorary)
- Pi Gamma Mu (Social Sciences Honorary)
Service-Learning
Make a difference in the community while learning skills you can apply toward your future career. Wayne State’s Service-Learning program has received national awards in recognition of outstanding community service, with more than 400 students participating in Service-Learning projects each semester.
Opportunities
- Contribute to a cause – Help promote historical awareness, civic engagement, diversity, and opportunity through Multicultural Affairs and events like Constitution Day and the voter registration drive.
- Peer tutoring and mentoring programs – Help fellow students master their courses and improve their skills, or be part of a support system for new students, all while gaining valuable experience for your resume.
- Study Abroad - Earn credit toward your degree while experiencing exciting global adventures overseas.
Internships
Before graduating with your History degree, you’ll have a chance to work with area public agencies to help gain some field experience. Career Services is available to help you find the best internship opportunities.