History

Department Chair: John Baranski
Email: baranski_j@fortlewis.edu

Professors: Michael Fry and Andrew Gulliford
Associate Professors: John Baranski, Michael Martin, and Ellen Paul

The Department of History offers a wide variety of courses that will enhance students’ understanding and appreciation of the human past. The study of history helps make the world and our lives more intelligible. We are the wiser for knowing that our belief systems, institutions, and differences have their roots in the past. Courses in the history of Africa, East Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East introduce the achievements of other civilizations. Through the exploration of our own national experience and the history of western civilization, students gain a deeper understanding of the historic foundations underlying the challenges we face in our own time.

Students of history learn to collect and interpret data, to develop logical and convincing arguments, and to write with clarity and economy. A degree in history provides a solid foundation for careers in teaching, archival management, library science, law, politics, international affairs and governments, as well as the training needed for success in graduate school.

Courses at the 100- and 200-level are “survey” classes that provide overviews of the history of regions and periods. These are the foundation courses for history majors. Courses designated 300-level explore more specialized topics and assume background in lower-division history courses. Courses at the 400-level are conducted as seminars and provide the advanced instruction required for the Senior Research Seminar.

History majors are required to earn 45-52 credits covering a variety of geographical areas and time periods. Majors can choose one of the following options: General, Public History, or Social Studies for Secondary Teachers. Under special circumstances, a student may propose a student-constructed concentration or complete a Liberal Studies degree with a concentration in History. These special options require the approval of the Department Chair. Students wishing to be certified to teach social studies at the secondary level should cotact the Teacher Education Department.

History program goals and outcomes

At the end of this program, students will be able to

1) demonstrate knowlege of the history of three regions of the world from the perspective of a global citizen.

2) interpret and analyze historical material, with an emphasis on primary sources, and reflecting changes in
historical debates.

3) use analytical tools such as class, race, gender, and sexuality.

4) conduct original historical research and present their findings orally and in writing.

General History Option : This option is for anyone who wants to major in history. A degree in history offers one of the best ways to pursue your intellectual interests and a traditional liberal arts education. A degree in history prepares you well for being a global citizen. It is hard to match the joy and benefits of earning a degree in history.

Public History Option : This option focuses on coursework related to doing public history. Public history, in short, is applying history to the world by making it useful in the public sphere. A degree in public history can lead to work as a historical consultant, museum professional, government work, archivist, community activist, or policy advisor. Public historians can also teach. The public history option offers opportunities to gain valuable experience through internships.

Social Studies for Secondary Teachers Option : This option gives high-quality academic preparation to students who wish to become Colorado licensed grades 7-12 social studies teachers. Students who complete this option become licensed to teach history, geography, political science, economics, anthropology, sociology, and psychology in grades 7-12. This option requires careful planning and advising. Students choosing this option should consult a History Department advisor as early as possible in their careers, and should read the Teacher Education Licensure Program section of this catalog for the steps and requirements for applying to and requirements for completing the program.

Liberal Studies Concentration in History : This option is built around a broad range of history courses, but also includes courses from other disciplines. See Liberal Studies Major for program requirements.

Minor in History : The minor in history offers a great way to pursue your interests in history and complement your major. This minor may be an important basis for students planning for law school, graduate studies, or employment. Typically, the minor requires a minimum of six courses: three lower and three upper division.

Major in History and Options

History Major - General Option

History Major - Public History Option

History Major - Social Studies for Secondary Teachers Option

Minor in History

History Minor