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HISTORY

Why Choose History?

Our program emphasizes a broad knowledge of the people and cultures of the world; providing the universally applicable skills of critical thinking, persuasive writing, original research, and the blending of traditional and innovative techniques in research technology. Practice and theory are integrated through internship opportunities in museums, libraries, archives, historical societies, governmental agencies, and at historic sites, laying the foundation for future careers.

What History Will Teach You!

History is not merely something we study, it is something we live and something we make. The study of history equips students with analytical skills and research techniques of immense practical and vocational value.

Our program is flexible, allowing you to select the courses that fit your interests within the three broad categories of American, European, and Asian history. As you move on to upper division courses, you will work closely with faculty to conduct advanced level original research.

Where History Can Take You!

After graduation, many Elmira College history majors go on to graduate studies in highly competitive programs, such as: Cornell University, Michigan State University, and Cooperstown Graduate Program (CGP) in Museum Studies; while others embark on successful careers in museums, government, law, non-profit organizations, education, and business.

Why Choose History?

Our program emphasizes a broad knowledge of the people and cultures of the world; providing the universally applicable skills of critical thinking, persuasive writing, original research, and the blending of traditional and innovative techniques in research technology. Practice and theory are integrated through internship opportunities in museums, libraries, archives, historical societies, governmental agencies, and at historic sites, laying the foundation for future careers.

What History Will Teach You!

History is not merely something we study, it is something we live and something we make. The study of history equips students with analytical skills and research techniques of immense practical and vocational value.

Our program is flexible, allowing you to select the courses that fit your interests within the three broad categories of American, European, and Asian history. As you move on to upper division courses, you will work closely with faculty to conduct advanced level original research.

Where History Can Take You!

After graduation, many Elmira College history majors go on to graduate studies in highly competitive programs, such as: Cornell University, Michigan State University, and Cooperstown Graduate Program (CGP) in Museum Studies; while others embark on successful careers in museums, government, law, non-profit organizations, education, and business.

The below links provide a helpful guide to the most current major/minor core courses and electives. Full program requirements and course descriptions are located in the Elmira College Bulletin.

History Major

History Minor

Learning Outcomes

Contacts:

Full-time Faculty:

Faculty in the history program have taken students on Term III study abroad trips to destinations such as Poland and China, and regularly teach courses that include travel components within the region or the United States. A clear expression of our belief is that the past is part of the present, it is impossible to effectively respond to the present without understanding the dynamic between the two.

Honor Societies:

  • Phi Alpha Theta, Psi Tau Chapter

Prizes/Scholarships:

  • The Barbara H. Palmer '67 Prize in History is awarded annually to a graduating senior who has shown exceptional achievement in the field of history.
  • The Kathleen Arnott Watters '65 Humanities Prize recognizes an exceptional graduating student in American Studies, Classical Studies, English Literature, History, or Philosophy & Religion, whose work exemplifies the ideals of scholarly inquiry, and demonstrates a passion for the humanities.

Career Opportunities:

An Elmira College education prepares students for today's job market and beyond. History students work with faculty, advisors, and the Career Services Office to develop post-graduation plans and to execute those plans.

Joshua Taylor M.A. '15

Joshua D. Taylor M.A. '15

Collections Technician for SEARCH INC.
History Major

p>The history program at Elmira College refines your passion for history into a tool to use for success. The staff's dedication and guidance allows students to explore all aspects of history while deepening their understanding and improving critical thinking skills. The program allowed me to obtain my goals of attending one of the best museum studies programs and pursue a career as a professional curator.