What are the requirements for the history major?

       This major requires four core courses. Three of these courses are introductory level: GHIST 101, World Culture to 1650; GHIST 102, World Culture Since 1650; and GHIST 225, United States History. In addition to the core requirements, majors must take nine elective courses: two on the 200 level and seven on the 300 and 400 level.  In addition, students must complete requirements for the Bachelors of Arts: foreign language up to the intermediate level, and a philosophy credit (not used for GenEd). 

      Students interested in the major should direct their browsers to the Undergraduate Program: Major section of the website, linked to the right.  There, students will find an explanation of the courses, as well as a chart of the core requirements and a history major checklist.  Students new to the major are advised to print the checklist and keep personal record of progress in the major.

Is there a history minor?

        Students of all majors can declare a history minor.  The minor requires 21 credit hours of history, including GHIST 101 and GHIST 102.  At least six of the remaining hours must be non-Western (not North America, Europe, or World). 

Is it possible to test out of entry-level classes?

       Students may receive credit by exam for U.S. History (GHIST 225). Examinations are offered the first week of every fall semester, the first week of every spring semester and the first week of every May session. Students interested in attaining GHIST 225 credit by exam should contact Dr. Andrew Witmer for further information.

       You may also receive credit by exam for GHIST101 and GHIST102.  The next examination for course credit in GHIST 101 and 102 will be held 2:30-4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 30, 2006.  Please notify Dr. Michael Seth one week in advance if you wish to take one these examinations.  Examinations may be picked up at 2:30 on this date from Jackson Hall, Room 225, and taken in the adjacent History Department Lounge.

The course I want is full.  How do I obtain an override?

         Contact the professor of the course to see if he or she is giving overrides.  If so, stop by the department office in Jackson 201 for an override form.  The professor must sign the form before you turn it in to Jane Crockett or Laurie Whiteway in the office.  Once the form has been turned in, you will register for the class on e-campus, as normal.

How do I apply to receive transfer credit if I have taken history courses at another institution?

        Fill out the "Permission to Take Courses for Transfer Credit" form located in the history department office, Jackson 201.  Attach to the form the course syllabus from the other institution.  Drop off the form to Dr. Lamont King so that the committee can make a decision regarding possible course credit.  Note: The Department of History will not, under any circumstances, offer 300 or 400 level credit for courses taken at Community/Junior Colleges.  If you have further questions regarding transfer credit, contact Dr. Lamont King. 

What are my career options as a history major?

         The essential historical skills of researching, evaluating and interpreting evidence, and writing are applicable to many job environments. JMU history majors have pursued careers in fields including archiving, education, historic site administration, industry, local, state, and federal government, cultural resource management, museum work, historic preservation, contract history, and private business. With additional training, many history graduates pursue careers in law, academia, or the health and technology professions. For more job information, go to Job Links for History Students.