B.A. in History

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Application Fee: $50

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 73 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 49 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 100.

Western Illinois University (WIU) offers several scholarships to international students to assist them in financing their education. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, talents, leadership, and other criteria. 

Presidential Scholarships: These scholarships are among the most prestigious at WIU and are awarded to academically exceptional students. They cover a significant portion of tuition costs and are renewable for up to eight semesters.

International Commitment Scholarships: WIU offers a range of international commitment scholarships to incoming international undergraduate students. These scholarships are based on academic merit and are available at varying levels of funding.

International Transfer Scholarships: Transfer students from international institutions can apply for transfer scholarships to help fund their education at WIU. The scholarship amounts may vary based on academic achievement.

Global Excellence Scholarships: These scholarships are designed to recognize and support outstanding international students. They are awarded based on academic performance, leadership, and community involvement.

International Peace Scholarship: WIU offers this scholarship to female international students who have a strong commitment to international understanding and peace. It's part of the P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship Fund.

College and Departmental Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within WIU offer scholarships to international students pursuing specific fields of study. Eligibility criteria and award amounts may vary by department.

Foundation Scholarships: WIU's Foundation administers a wide range of scholarships, some of which are available to international students. These scholarships are often based on specific majors or criteria defined by donors.

External Scholarships: International students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities, both in their home countries and through international organizations, to help finance their education at WIU.

Fulbright Scholar Program: While not directly administered by WIU, international students can apply for the prestigious Fulbright Scholar Program, which provides funding for academic and cultural exchange opportunities in the United States.

To apply for scholarships at WIU, international students typically need to submit an application for admission and a separate scholarship application, if required. Deadlines and eligibility criteria can vary.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in History from Western Illinois University (WIU) in Macomb have a diverse array of career opportunities available to them, thanks to their comprehensive understanding of historical events, critical analysis, and research skills. The degree equips students with valuable competencies that are applicable in various professional fields.

Education and Academia: Many history graduates pursue careers in education as teachers or professors. They can teach history at various levels, from middle and high school to higher education institutions. Advanced degrees can lead to roles in academia, where they conduct research, publish scholarly work, and contribute to academic discourse.

Museum and Archival Management: History graduates often find roles in museums, historical societies, and archives, where they work as curators, archivists, or museum educators. These positions involve managing collections, organizing exhibits, and providing educational programming related to historical artifacts and documents.

Public History: Public historians work in settings such as historical sites, heritage organizations, and cultural institutions. They focus on making history accessible and engaging for the public through exhibitions, educational programs, and community outreach.

Research and Analysis: Graduates can work as research analysts or consultants, applying their skills in historical research and analysis to various sectors, including think tanks, policy institutes, and non-profit organizations. They may analyze historical data, produce reports, and contribute to policy development.

Government and Public Service: History graduates can pursue careers in government or public service, working for federal, state, or local government agencies. Roles may include positions in public administration, policy analysis, and legislative assistance, where they apply historical knowledge to inform public policy and governance.

Media and Publishing: Graduates with a strong background in writing and research may enter media and publishing fields. They can work as journalists, editors, or content creators, producing articles, books, and other materials related to historical topics and current events.

Cultural Resource Management: Cultural resource managers work on preserving and protecting historical and archaeological sites. They collaborate with various stakeholders to ensure that cultural heritage is maintained and integrated into development and conservation efforts.

Law and Legal Services: The analytical and research skills developed through a history degree can also be valuable in the legal field. Graduates may work as paralegals, legal researchers, or pursue law school to become attorneys specializing in areas such as historical property law or civil rights.

Non-Profit and Advocacy Work: History graduates can work for non-profit organizations and advocacy groups, focusing on causes related to historical preservation, social justice, and community development. They may manage projects, conduct research, and advocate for policy changes.

Graduate Studies: The B.A. in History also provides a strong foundation for advanced studies in history, law, public administration, or related fields. Pursuing graduate education can lead to specialized roles in research, teaching, or leadership positions within various sectors.