History
History is the focused analysis of how and why things change.
There is little in our world that resists transformation. Values, identities, and communities are constantly shifting, and the study of history explores the causes of changes over time and the relation of those changes to individual human action and to social and cultural processes.
At Widener, undergraduates majoring in history gain insights into the human condition and acquire an appreciation for the diversity of human experience across time and space. Through the study of context and perspective, students develop skills in critical thinking, research and communication.
Rigorous Academics
Students of history are trained in the skills associated with assessment. They learn how to evaluate evidence, sort through conflicting interpretations and ideas, and understand the underlying mechanics behind change.
After fulfilling general education requirements, history majors embark on a course of study that prepares them for advanced inquiry into history and other aspects of the humanities. Students must also compile a portfolio, which tracks their development as scholars and includes samples of academic work.
The department also boasts an active honors program. Honors history students must maintain meet academic performance requirements and make at least one research presentation in a public forum such as the regional and national Phi Alpha Theta conferences, the National Conference for Undergraduate Research, or Widener University's own Honors Week presentations.
Devoted Faculty
Widener's small history department gives you access to active and supportive history scholars. Our history professors have a wide range of research interests, from various aspects of American and European social and political histories to representations of slavery in popular culture.
Prime Location
If you're into history, having the "Birthplace of America" in your backyard is an incredible perk. The Greater Philadelphia region is an amazing resource of important historical material, from sites and museums to libraries and archives. Students regularly accompany faculty on field trips to places like Independence National Historic Park, the National Constitution Center, the Valley Forge National Historic Park, and historic New Castle, Delaware.
