B.A. in Women & Gender Studies
Queens College offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across variou...
B.A. in History
New York City, New York
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The B.A. in History at Queens College aims to develop students' abilities to comprehend and evaluate historical phenomena, construct historical arguments, and understand the crucial importance of historical context. The program goes beyond mere memorization of dates and facts, encouraging students to engage with diverse interpretations of the past and reflect on how history informs the present and shapes the future. It provides foundational knowledge in U.S., European, and non-Western history, while also allowing for specialized study in various thematic concentrations. The program is an excellent foundation for graduate work in law, journalism, library science, and history, as well as for careers in education, public service, and various industries demanding strong analytical and communication skills.
Curriculum The curriculum for the B.A. in History is comprehensive and structured to provide both breadth and depth. It typically includes introductory surveys in European and U.S. history, as well as a significant component in non-Western history, ensuring a global perspective from the outset. As students progress, they delve into upper-division courses and are required to select a concentration from areas such as U.S. history, ancient history, modern Europe, legal history, Jewish history, global history, or gender history. Students also have the flexibility to design their own thematic concentration with departmental approval. A cornerstone of the major is a writing-intensive colloquium (HIST 392W), which provides in-depth training in historical methods, analytical thinking, and intensive writing skills. The curriculum emphasizes working with primary and secondary sources—written, visual, and even musical—to foster critical evaluation and effective argumentation.
Research Focus The History Department at Queens College strongly emphasizes critical investigation of the past and encourages students to engage in historical research. Faculty members have diverse research interests, spanning various historical periods and geographical regions, including ancient Greek and Roman history, early modern England and Ireland, South Asian history (especially Islam and Urdu language), Italian and Sephardic Jewish history, intellectual and social history, immigrant radicalism, and 19th-century political thought. The department promotes understanding of historiography—the changing ways history is researched and interpreted. Students are trained to analyze primary source evidence and develop their research and writing abilities, often culminating in independent research projects in upper-level seminars or the required colloquium. This robust research environment prepares students to contribute original historical knowledge.
Industry Engagement Queens College actively supports its History majors in translating their academic skills into professional success. The Center for Career Engagement and Internships provides resources such as career advising, workshops, and access to job and internship postings through platforms like Handshake. History graduates are particularly well-suited for roles in fields such as education (especially secondary-level social studies), law (due to strong analytical and research skills), library and information science (archives, museums), journalism, public service, and government. The program itself highlights that its rigorous training in interpretation, written, and oral communication are highly valued by employers across various sectors, including business and entertainment. Opportunities for internships in museums, archives, publishing, and other related fields are encouraged to provide practical, real-world experience.
Global Perspective Queens College's location in one of the most ethnically and linguistically diverse areas in the world naturally imbues its History program with a profound global perspective. The student body's rich multiculturalism enriches classroom discussions and provides diverse insights into historical narratives. The curriculum explicitly includes surveys and upper-division courses in non-Western history, ensuring students engage with histories beyond traditional national and Western frameworks. Faculty research also spans the globe, from ancient Mediterranean to South Asia, further broadening the program's international scope. This commitment to a global outlook helps students understand history as a complex, interconnected tapestry, preparing them to make sense of contemporary global issues and to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
Location
New York City, New York
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 19207
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 60% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 61 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 44 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 100.
Queens College, United States of America, is supporting international students through various scholarship opportunities designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement.
Merit-Based Scholarships: Queens College offers a range of merit-based scholarships specifically available to international students. These awards are typically granted based on academic achievement, standardized test scores, and overall potential. Some scholarships are automatically considered during the admissions process, while others may require separate applications.
Queens College Foundation Scholarships: The Queens College Foundation administers several scholarships funded by alumni and donors. These scholarships reward outstanding academic performance and community service. International students are encouraged to explore these opportunities and apply early to maximize their chances of receiving aid.
Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments at Queens College provide scholarships for students excelling in their respective fields. International students can inquire within their chosen department about specialized awards, grants, and assistantships that may be available during their studies.
External Scholarships: Queens College encourages international students to seek external scholarships offered by governments, private organizations, and international education foundations.
Queens College's Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in History is a highly versatile degree that cultivates critical thinking, extensive research abilities, and strong communication skills—qualities highly sought after in a diverse job market. The program’s rigorous academic training in interpreting complex information, constructing nuanced arguments, and understanding historical context prepares graduates for roles far beyond traditional historical professions.
Secondary School Teacher (Social Studies): This is a very common and direct path for History majors, particularly those who integrate their studies with education coursework or pursue relevant certification. They teach U.S. History, World History, Civics, and other social studies subjects, shaping young minds and fostering historical literacy.
Archivist or Records Manager: Graduates can work in libraries, museums, universities, government agencies, or corporate settings, specializing in the preservation, organization, and access of historical documents, digital records, and artifacts. Their understanding of historical significance and meticulous research skills are invaluable here.
Museum Curator or Collections Manager: Combining historical knowledge with an appreciation for material culture, these roles involve researching, acquiring, preserving, and exhibiting artifacts for museums and historical societies. They often develop educational programs and public presentations.
Journalist/Researcher (Media): The ability to conduct thorough research, evaluate sources critically, and write clearly and persuasively makes History majors well-suited for careers in journalism, investigative reporting, or as researchers for documentaries, news organizations, or publishing houses.
Law (Paralegal/Pre-Law): A History degree is widely considered excellent preparation for law school. The emphasis on logical reasoning, analytical thinking, persuasive writing, and understanding complex social and legal contexts directly translates to success in legal professions, including roles as paralegals, legal assistants, or eventually, lawyers (with further education).
Public Relations/Communications Specialist: History majors learn to craft compelling narratives and understand audience perception. These skills are highly applicable in public relations, corporate communications, and marketing, where communicating a message effectively and understanding public sentiment is crucial.
Government Analyst/Civil Servant: The analytical, research, and policy understanding gained from a history degree is highly valued in various government roles at local, state, or federal levels. This could include positions in policy analysis, intelligence, foreign service, or administrative roles where critical evaluation of information is essential.
Non-Profit Program Coordinator/Grant Writer: Graduates can apply their understanding of social issues and historical context to develop and manage programs for non-profit organizations. Their research and writing skills are particularly useful for grant writing, securing funding for important initiatives.
Business Analyst/Consultant: While not immediately obvious, the critical thinking, problem-solving, and research skills developed in a history program are highly sought after in business. History graduates can analyze trends, interpret data, and propose solutions for companies, often in consulting, human resources, or market research roles.
Genealogist/Family Historian: For those with a passion for personal narratives and meticulous research, this niche field involves tracing family lineages and documenting personal histories for individuals or organizations. The skills in archival research and source evaluation are paramount here.
