Explore events and people from the past — and better understand how we got to where we are today — with a bachelor's degree in history from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. Designed so you can explore and pursue multiple passions, degree requirements for our history program are flexible and personalized. A variety of electives allow you to study the topics that most interest you and best align with your professional goals.

Coursework throughout the major will provide you with a strong foundation in world history and introduce you to the theories, concepts, methodologies, research methods and historiographic traditions used by historians. Through unique projects and assignments, you'll learn how to uncover evidence and use it to explain the meaning and impact of events in local, national and global contexts. You will also discover how to conduct independent research; evaluate the views of historical scholars; and assess the credibility, position and perspectives of various forms of historical evidence. This real-world, learn-by-doing approach gives you an inside look at the types of projects and initiatives you may be leading once in the field — and gives you firsthand experience prior to graduating. 

No matter your career goals, here, you'll feel motivated and supported while on your journey to pursuing your bachelor's degree. Classes are taught by passionate, supportive faculty members, each with a wealth of knowledge and expertise. Through their diverse backgrounds and past experiences, they'll show you all that is possible with a degree in history and help you find a career path you love. Small class sizes allow you to ask questions, have thought-provoking discussions and network with students who, like you, are interested in sharing their love of history with the world.

After completing UW-Eau Claire's history program, you'll become an informed citizen who understands and appreciates diversity, especially as it relates to evaluating and presenting different interpretations of the past. Our alumni go on to advance their studies in graduate or law school, or pursue careers in museums, archives, the government or historic sites. Graduates also work in management positions in the public or private business sectors.

History jobs

• Historical Society education and programming
• Local history outreach coordinator
• State records archivist
• Travel writer
• Consulting relations
• Director of research and principal analyst
• Coordinator of library development

The curriculum within UW-Eau Claire's history program will help you gain the kind of perspective that is valuable in evaluating the institutions, ideas and values of the present day. You will develop an understanding of how and why societies and cultures change or do not change over time, as well as how interactions between the diverse peoples and cultures of the past shape our lives today. As part of a required capstone experience, you'll complete a major research project for presentation, enhancing your writing, reading, communication and analytical skills.

Pair your major with another field that interests you for even more opportunities and career paths. Popular minor choices include geography, global studies, European studies, ancient studies, religious studies, psychology, political science, economics or a language.

What classes do history majors take?

Your classes may cover topics like: 

• American women’s history 
• Ancient historiography 
• History of World War II 
• Civil rights and American memory 
• Gender, sex and science in European history 
• Twentieth century Russia
• History of race in the U.S. 

Learn more about the history major in the UWEC course catalog.

Learn more about the history minor in the UWEC course catalog.

Thinking about a bachelor’s degree in history? Here are a few other programs you might be interested in exploring.