Welcome to the History Department
Have you ever wondered how we got to where we are today? What forces shaped past events and what role did individuals play in history’s unfolding? If these questions spark your curiosity, you’re in the right place. At Stan State, we offer you the opportunity to explore the many dimensions of history, uncover the stories that shape our world and develop the skills to communicate your findings effectively.
History is not just a record of the past—it’s a lens through which we understand the present and envision the future. Our history program encourages you to delve into a variety of historical periods, cultures and methodologies. Whether you’re drawn to ancient civilizations, modern political movements or social history, we provide the tools and support to help you explore your interests and deepen your understanding of the past. Let our history program prepare you for the classroom, the courtroom or the boardroom.
Why Earn a History Degree?
A degree in history opens doors to a wide array of career opportunities. Graduates go on to pursue careers in education, law, business, journalism, politics, museum administration, TV and film documentaries, civil service and the military, among others. Many of our alumni have found success teaching in secondary schools and junior colleges, working in historical organizations or contributing to public history projects.
In addition to its career potential, a history degree equips you with essential skills for the information age. You’ll learn how to conduct rigorous research, analyze sources critically and present your ideas through writing and public speaking. These abilities foster success in any profession and give you a deeper understanding of the world around you—skills that are more valuable than ever in today’s rapidly changing society.
At Stan State, we’re committed to preparing you not only for the classroom but for the courtroom, the boardroom or wherever your future may take you. Join us and let the study of history shape your journey.
Testimonials
Armando Hernandez
History BA, Class of 2022
History MA, Class of 2024
"What I love most about being a history major is that I get to learn about how different histories affect the world we live in today. It allows me to think about how to approach my interactions with other people to make the world a better, kinder place. The history major gave me resources and knowledge on how I can create a community in education while also teaching students about the past and how to use the past to analyze the present."
Rosio Villanueva
History BA, Class of 2025
"I enjoyed the supportive and welcoming faculty in the history department, as well as the variety of courses the department offers during the semesters. Shout-out to Dr. Cullison and Dr. Black! My major helped me shape my career goals by teaching me core skills such as conducting research, assessing credibility in documents, and applying diverse perspectives. These skills inspired me to pursue a career in education and to analyze immigration policies."
Kate Norton
BA History and Public History Certificate, Class of 2026
"The History major department opened my eyes to the Museum Studies Minor and Public History Certificate programs, programs in which I am enrolled in and hope to take my studies further to a Museum Studies Master's Program. This major will allow me to dream big and pursue a career in museums, learning more and teaching others about the many aspects of history."
Stefano Bautista
History BA, Class of 2026
"My major in history has opened up the door towards philosophy, creative writing, linguistics, anthropology and political science as well as other themes and subjects I mentioned earlier, since they are all a factor integral to the writing of history in some way or another. I will likely find myself sticking with and committing towards some or all of the above themes and subjects and still likely more too. When this will actually happen I am not sure but it could be really, really soon."
Cierra Sears
History M.A.
"What I enjoyed most about the program was the people who believed in me before I fully believed in myself. It opened the door to a career in public service, where I discovered a new passion for helping people and putting my skills to work beyond the classroom. While teaching may still be part of my story one day, the program showed me that a history degree is not a limitation but a gateway—one that can lead to places I never imagined and help me make a difference in ways I never expected."
Stephen Romano
History B.A.
"The most enjoyable part of a history major at Stan State is the outstanding faculty that students interact with on a daily basis. Properly engaging with this field requires sharp intellectual minds to guide students in understanding the past. As a current student at The University of Texas School of Law, studying History helped foster my commitment to ensuring that the future of the United States is positive. Using the knowledge that I gained, I can now take my skills into the legal profession and fight for what is great about the U.S."
Updated: September 08, 2025