Bachelor of Arts in History
Program Overview & Goals
The History major at Hendrix College equips students to study and interpret the human past through critical analysis of historical evidence, diverse perspectives, and changing social, political, cultural, and economic contexts. Students learn to examine continuity and change across time while developing skills in research, interpretation, writing, and argumentation. Through historical inquiry, global awareness, and thoughtful engagement with the complexities of human experience, students are prepared to help shape the future.
Via Hendrix
Whether your goals include completing a doctoral degree, pursuing historical research, or curating a museum, you can get there Via Hendrix.
Here at Hendrix, you will start preparing for your future from day one, not after graduation.
Through a four-year experience intentionally designed around career readiness, mentorship, and experiential learning, you will gain the skills and confidence to pursue meaningful goals from the moment you arrive on campus. Every class, project, and hands-on opportunity becomes part of a larger journey that helps you discover your strengths, grow with purpose, and graduate ready for what comes next.
Careers & Outcomes
History majors develop their ability to analyze a broad range of historical information, form evidence-based conclusions, and communicate them clearly both orally and in writing, preparing them for success in a variety of professions.
Salary Projections
The median salary for a historian is $74,050 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Top Industries
- Museums / Public History
- Library Science
- Law / Government
- Film
- Education
Career Options
The History major provides students with versatile critical thinking skills. Hendrix History alumni work in a variety of careers, including:
- Disability Rights Attorney
- Museum Curator
- Teacher Development Manager
- Program Coordinator
Co-op Opportunities
Experience separates good job candidates from great ones. At Hendrix, professional work experiences are guaranteed through our robust co-op program. Through this required component of the history major, students can work at places including:
- Archives
- Government Offices
- Museums
- Libraries
Roadmap to the Bachelor of Arts in History
Every History major takes classes in U.S. history, world history, historical research methods, and historiography. Through experiential learning opportunities, you also develop critical thinking, analytical writing, and research skills while learning to interpret primary sources and understand historical context.
Year One
Our First-Year Experience gives you the freedom to discover what you care about most and find a path to get there. Your coursework this year allows you to master the foundations of historical inquiry and evidence-based analysis. You also begin to learn how to interpret primary sources, evaluate competing perspectives, and communicate complex ideas with clarity.
Year Two
In your second year, you will have a stronger vision of what your academic experience and career planning look like. Your integrated advising team of faculty, career counselors, and mentors will ensure that the things you study align with your future goals while still providing room to explore.
Year Three
Your third year includes a required full-time co-op. For one semester, you earn credit while applying knowledge from your coursework in a professional setting.
Year Four
Your last year is not the finish line. It is where everything starts. Complete your senior research project, deepen your expertise in the historical period or topic that inspires you most, and graduate ready to pursue careers in law, education, public service, business, or graduate study.
The Bottom Line
Vic Welky ’27, History major, Murphy Scholar
As a History major, I have taken a variety of interesting classes and done internships with ArkansasTV and the Southwest Arkansas Regional Archives. The Mock Trial team has been the absolute highlight of my experience, and it has given me the opportunity to greatly improve my public speaking, organization, and professionalism. I am looking forward to spending my final year at Hendrix continuing to explore my interests and taking advantage of the numerous opportunities the College provides and supports.
Meet the Faculty
Every member of our full-time faculty in the Department of History holds a Ph.D., demonstrating their expertise and close connection to the current pulse of their respective fields of study. Just as importantly, they are dedicated to you. They work closely with you as both teachers and mentors, supporting you every step of the way to your dream career.
Related Programs
At Hendrix, you can study historical events and global civilizations, political and cultural movements, or even build your own major that connects history with fields like law or international studies.
Your Next Steps Via Hendrix
Every field is shaped by the past and the lessons it offers. Learn how much value the History major from Hendrix College can deliver for you as you explore the events, ideas, and movements that have shaped societies across time.