History has always been the linchpin of academe to the tradition of humankind and, as a discipline, is among the most revered and relevant of the liberal arts. All knowledge has a history, and the study of history is the beginning of the varieties of knowledge.

Majors in history who expect to do graduate work for the degree of Master of Arts or Doctor of Philosophy, particularly the latter, should plan to study two foreign languages while at Elmhurst University. The requirements of universities vary, but they usually include a reading knowledge of two foreign languages, tested by a written examination.

History majors planning to attend law school upon completion of a degree at Elmhurst University are encouraged to pursue a balanced program between American and English history. POL 412 Constitutional Law is also recommended.

Courses offered by the Department of History may be counted toward some Integrated Curriculum requirements or a major or minor in history.

Mission Statement

The mission of the history department is to serve the academic needs of majors and non-majors alike by acquainting them with knowledge of the past and providing them with the skills to understand and analyze trends, personalities and movements that have shaped events. As Jefferson so aptly put it: “History by apprising them of the past will enable them to judge of the future; it will avail them of the experience of other times and other nations; it will qualify them under every disguise it may assume; and knowing it, to defeat its views.”

Goals of the Department

• To allow students to develop a sense of history

• To encourage critical thinking and the understanding of cause-and-effect relationships

• To urge the development of clear and persuasive use of oral and written expression

• To become aware of the diversity and commonality of peoples through history

• To appreciate the profound story of our collective past in a variety of national arenas and eras

• To enjoy the pleasure of viewing life in its previous struggles and triumphs

• To learn to love the life of the mind and the production of ideas

Student Learning Outcomes for History Majors

Students are to:

• Engage in independent research on a historical issue and provide arguments based upon said research

• Master historical content, revel in the creative process, be a lifelong learner, value democratic processes and understand Western culture

• Be knowledgeable in the field and model teaching styles (for those in teacher education)