B.A. in History

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in History at Mississippi College, offered through the Department of History and Political Science, provides a comprehensive exploration of the human past, equipping students with essential skills for understanding the present and engaging with the future. This program distinguishes itself from the B.S. in History by requiring proficiency in a second language (typically 12 hours of a chosen language), making it particularly competitive for students aiming for law school, graduate programs requiring language proficiency, or careers with an international focus. The curriculum emphasizes the development of critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and clear communication skills through the study of diverse historical periods, regions, and themes. It prepares graduates for a wide range of careers that demand a sharp mind, the ability to process complex information, and adaptability, while also fostering a deeper commitment to Christian values and democratic ideals.

Curriculum: The B.A. in History curriculum at Mississippi College is designed for intellectual breadth and depth, emphasizing a strong foundation in historical knowledge alongside language acquisition. Students complete the university's core curriculum, followed by a substantial number of credit hours within the English major. This typically includes foundational survey courses in American history (e.g., U.S. History to 1877, U.S. History since 1877) and world history (e.g., World Civilization I & II). Students then delve into upper-division courses focusing on specific periods, regions, or themes such as European history, Asian history, Latin American history, African American history, and specialized topics. The distinctive requirement of 12 hours in a foreign language (e.g., French, Spanish) enhances global understanding and analytical rigor. The curriculum also integrates opportunities for students to refine their research and writing skills, often culminating in advanced research seminars or capstone projects, ensuring graduates are adept at historical inquiry and communication.

Research Focus: Mississippi College's History program places a strong emphasis on developing students' research capabilities. Under the guidance of enthusiastic faculty members who are productive scholars in their own right, with expertise spanning American history, the Civil War, the American South, World War II, and British imperial history, students learn proper methods to collect and analyze large amounts of data, find relevant information, and identify trends. Through coursework, students are trained to think critically, analyze data analytically, and form persuasive arguments from their findings. Opportunities for students to engage in original research are often integrated into advanced seminars or capstone projects, which are crucial for developing independent problem-solving skills and preparing for advanced studies or research-oriented careers.

Industry Engagement: Mississippi College's B.A. in History program equips graduates with highly transferable skills that are valued across numerous industries. While traditional "industry partnerships" might not be as formalized as in some professional degrees, the department actively promotes and facilitates internship opportunities for its students. These internships provide valuable real-world experience and networking in fields like public history (museums, archives), government, law offices, and non-profit organizations. For instance, the Mississippi Department of Archives and History offers internships designed to provide hands-on experience in areas like archives, archaeology, education, and museums. The Career Services office at Mississippi College assists students in finding and securing these opportunities, which can also be taken for academic credit. The program's focus on developing strong analytical thinking, effective communication (both written and oral), and the ability to process complex information directly addresses the demands of the modern workforce.

Global Perspective: Mississippi College is deeply committed to fostering a global perspective throughout its academic programs, and the B.A. in History is inherently designed to cultivate this. The curriculum typically includes courses on various world regions and civilizations, exposing students to diverse historical narratives, cultures, and societal developments beyond the Western world. This broad exposure helps students understand global trends, interconnectedness, and the historical roots of contemporary international issues. The required proficiency in a second language further deepens students' cross-cultural understanding and prepares them for international engagement. While not explicitly detailed for the History program, Mississippi College offers various study abroad programs to numerous countries, providing opportunities for students to gain firsthand experience with different cultures and historical sites. This holistic approach prepares graduates to engage critically with global challenges and opportunities, whether in academic, professional, or civic capacities.