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History Major

Bachelor of Arts Degree

Program Overview

The History, Humanities and Government Department endeavors to provide students with a foundation from which they can impact their world. Through understanding and valuing the past, students develop a deeper understanding of their place in today's society. Analysis of the whys of the past suggests actions that may be expected to produce positive changes in contemporary institutions and society.

History, humanities and government teach the story of humanity as well as the dynamics that have shaped and continue to shape that story. The history program at Oral Roberts University is based on both human and spiritual truth. History provides both record and interpretation without which perspective is impossible. Perspective provides insight into why present institutions and society are what they are. Analysis of the whys of the past suggests actions that may be expected to produce positive changes in contemporary institutions and society.

"I have always longed to be a time traveler, and my classes feed this desire for bygone adventures. Studying history is a call to remember and understand the tangled past of humanity. Through its failures and victories, I am endlessly inspired. I am honored to be a possessor of memories."

Student: Jacquelyn
Major: History
Hometown: Andover, KS

The ORU history major may select from a variety of areas that provide either a traditional concentration degree or an integrated, focused-area degree. History is an excellent major for students who plan to implement the founding purpose of ORU--to go into every person's world-- as well as practice professions such as law, government, business, journalism, teaching or any field requiring knowledge of national and world events and the ability to evaluate those events. Today's successful student needs to have a historical-cultural understanding to best minister healing for the totality of the human needs.

Student Societies, Clubs and Extracurricular opportunities

Oklahoma Intercollegiate Legislature (OIL)
Equips all majors with the knowledge and experience to work within government and includes a five-day competition at the Oklahoma state capitol.
Model United Nations (MUN)
A mock United Nations assembly attended each year by ORU students as representatives of different nations. Diplomatic and research skills are highlighted.
Leadership Conference
Held each January in Washington D.C.
Oklahoma Scholar Leadership Enrichment Program (OSLEP)
Provides academic seminars in Oklahoma City throughout the year
Phi Alpha Theta
Society for history and social studies education majors with honors standing.
College Republicans
A club for students interested in involvement in the Republican political party
Young Democrats
A club for students interested in involvement in the Democratic political party
International Community Development Club
Links students to the community through informational and influential avenues of missionary speakers, videos, outreaches and experience trips

Outcomes

History majors can look forward to exciting careers as:

Attorneys
Civil service professionals at the local, state, national or international levels
College professors
Middle school/high school teacher
Politician or political consultant
Private sector professionals in public affairs departments of corporations and businesses
Public administrator
Research analyst
Historian
University lecturer

Course Offerings

Historiography
Introduction to History Areas Studies*

*Students may choose to study one specific geographic area (such as U.S., Europe, or Latin America) and take a minimum of 18 hours in this area. If this approach is chosen, six hours must then be taken in at least one other area. Students may also choose to take a general approach and have a minimum of 24 hours divided into four areas.