Undergraduate
Major in History
Per USF policy, logistical information about the history major can be found through the USF Undergraduate Catalog. We welcome any and all undergraduates in our courses and look forward to seeing you in the classroom. For those of you who want to declare your History Major, you can do so here!
FAQ
What are the differences between HIS 4104, HIS 4936, and HIS 4940?
All history majors must take one of these three courses, which focus on research skills, practical experiences, professional development, or historical methods. This course should be selected in consultation with the Academic Advisor, according to the student's professional and postgraduate goals:
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HIS 4104: Theory and Methods of History: This course introduces history majors to the theories, mothods, approaches, and key debates that are central to the modern historical profession. Students also develop skills in historical research, reading, writing, and oral communication. Students interested in applying to graduate programs in History, at the MA or PhD levels should consider taking either Theory and Methods of History or a second Pro-Seminar.
- HIS 4936: Pro-Seminar: History majors will complete research papers in HIS 4936 Seminar courses. Students are also encouraged to work with the Office for Undergraduate Research to participate in their annual Undergraduate Research Symposium. Students are further encouraged to attend or present research papers at conferences, such as the annual Phi Alpha Theta regional conference. Please note that all history majors are required to take one HIS 4936 course but, based on student interest, some majors can elect to take two of them to fulfill another major requirement. See the USF Undergraduate Catalog for further details.
- HIS 4940: Internship in History: The USF History department encourages students to take part in internships, and offers several for-credit opportunities within the major. Currently, the History department has a variety of internship partners available, including museums and historical societies. Potential internship activities can include working with collections, processing archival materials, research, leading guided tours, and building exhibits. Students will work closely with the undergraduate advisor and faculty coordinator to select internship opportunities.
What electives does the History Department recommend for its majors?
The History Department recommends that students take the following elective courses outside of the major:
- HUM 2593: Science in Cultural Context
- LIT 3410: Religious and Philosophical Themes
Additional hours can be profitably drawn from the following disciplines: Africana Studies, Anthropology, Classics, Economics, Geography, School of Interdisciplinary Global Studies, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Sociology, Women’s Studies, Literature, Humanities and Cultural Studies, and Art History.
Will my AP/IB/Dual Enrollment history courses count for the major?
Yes, these will count.
Do I have to concentrate on one area of history?
No, you may wish to concentrate on one area but it is not mandatory.
What is the Pro-Seminar course about?
These are topics offered by Professors with expertise in that field. It is an intense course in which students use their analytical skills to write a major research paper.
How do I get a permit for the Theory?
Contact the History Department Undergraduate Advisor.
How do I get a permit for the Pro-Seminar classes?
Contact the Professor of the class for permission and then inform the Advisor who will issue the permit.