Oswego's history program will provide you with a broad exposure to your own heritage, acquaint you with other cultures and promote an in-depth understanding of at least one historical area.
Subjects focus on American, African, Asian, European, Latin American and Middle Eastern history; social, intellectual, military and political history; and gender and ethnic studies. You’ll learn to read closely and critically, to evaluate and synthesize materials from diverse sources, to speak and write effectively, to use empathy and imagination and to adhere to high standards of intellectual integrity — skills and habits of mind that will serve you well in diverse fields.
Our setting in a historic city and region provides a complementary atmosphere and many internship opportunities with museums, historic attractions and preservation organizations (as well as in other parts of the country). Apply to study abroad in cities old and new.
Pursue opportunities to work with our skilled and helpful faculty on individual research projects. Join our History Club. Excel and you could be inducted into Phi Alpha Theta, the national history honor society — and become eligible for the history honors program, in which you can work directly with a faculty member to complete a thesis and earn an honors degree.
I love learning about the past and understanding how vital it is to understanding the modern world we live in today. In order to create a better world for future generations, it is necessary to have a solid understanding of how this world has been shaped by humanity.
Becoming a history major was probably the best decision I've made at Oswego. Studying history has exposed weaknesses in my understanding, put my beliefs into question, and shown me the need to view our past critically. Being a history major has provided me with experiences to tutor, present at Quest, and be a department TA, and I look forward to more opportunities in the days ahead.
Take classes and participate in internships while immersing yourself in all that region has to offer.
Learn what it's like to work in a professional setting while still in school.
Our History Club meets weekly to discuss history, it's impact on the world and current events in the news. We plan overnight trips to historical cities in the northeast once a semester- past trips have included Washington D.C., Boston and Philadelphia!
Travel with Oswego faculty to explore writing and storytelling across cultures. Courses abroad combine creative practice with immersive global experiences, expanding your perspective as both a writer and a reader.
With the department’s approval, enter the honors program, where you’ll have the opportunity to pursue advanced topics and work with faculty one-on-one.