History
History is, at its most basic level, about storytelling. Historians write narratives that explore the past and help us make sense of the present. Everything has a history, but the way this history is told is often highly contested. In the history program, you will develop a body of knowledge about the past, but more importantly you will learn how to critically examine the past through writing and in-class discussion. The ability to tell a compelling story, that is both backed by evidence and that makes a serious point, is of utmost importance no matter what career one ends up in.
What You’ll Study
In addition to traditional course offerings on subjects like the Civil War, History of the South, World War II, and Modern Europe, the program includes new courses that reflect the latest changes in scholarship and that coincide with the evolution and growth of Lees-McRae. Examples include a course on the history of disease and epidemics and a course on sports history. In these courses, you will read works from historians, conduct research on primary sources and practice writing and discussion skills.
Beyond the Classroom
You'll have the opportunity to complete internships at local historic sites like Horn in the West, the Banner Elk House Museum, the Hickory Ridge Museum, and more.
After Graduation
Common Career Areas
History majors go on to a wide range of careers. Students can work in the field of history, as academic or public historians. History majors often go on to graduate study in law school, library school, or history. Education is also a common field for history graduates. Employers value the critical thinking and original insights that humanities majors provide so it is no surprise that many history majors end up in the business world.
More broadly, history majors learn to master research, analysis, writing, and communication skills, which are essential for many professions. Even if you don’t go on to a career in history, employers value the critical thinking and original insights that an education in history provides.
- Academic—Professor, Secondary Education, Historian
- Creative—Writer, Editor and Content Manager, Journalism
- Law—Lawyer, Paralegal
- Business—Human Resources, Grant Writer
- Historic Preservation—Historic Preservationist, Museum Technician, Archivist
Career information is provided through Vault and O'Net. Current Lees-McRae students can see the full results on Vault using their student email and password.
Alumni Success
MA in History East Tennessee University
PhD in Political Science University of Texas at Dallas
Founder Ally’s Bar (and professional cyclist)
Assistant Professor of History Wright State University
Meet the Faculty
Scott Huffard, PhD
Program Coordinator for History, Professor
Robert Turpin, PhD
Director of Honors Program, Professor of History