Part of the College of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences

Why Study History?

History plays a central role in general education for all undergraduate students. History stresses an understanding of changes that take place in society over time. It also provides a meaning to the past that has many implications for the future. Since we learn from experience, by studying history we can greatly broaden our learning through the experience of others, removed in time and distant in space from our immediate world. The study of history is as useful as it is fascinating. History majors develop an ability to communicate well, both orally and in writing, and the capacity to think clearly and analytically.

Because history stresses change over time and provides the tools for comprehending better a rapidly changing world, many of those planning graduate work find history an excellent preparation for professional schools such as law and business administration. For those planning a legal career, a strong background in Western institutions and values can be obtained in a variety of courses in the Department and from the History/Law and Society major. Furthermore, a major in history prepares the student for graduate study in this field as well as a broad range of general careers in business, government work and foreign affairs that require the written and verbal skills developed in the major. History majors are encouraged to study abroad as part of their program.

Programs

In addition to the History major, the History Department offers bachelor degree programs in History/Administrative Studies and in History/Law and Society, as well as a History minor.

WALK-IN HOURS
Monday – Friday 9:00am – 11:00am and 2:00pm – 4:00pm

APPOINTMENTS
Monday – Friday 11:00am – 12:00pm and 1:00pm – 2:00pm

  • Please note an appointment is required for students who would like to discuss a change of major or declare a History minor during weeks five through ten of the academic quarter.

Click on the button to create an account and submit information including your COMPLETE UCR webmail address as part of the process to make an appointment. An example of this required email address is:  firstname.lastname001@ucr.edu 

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