Brookings Main Campus
The past is today.
History is to memorialize, yes. It is the deeds of great people doing great things, true. But it is so much more. It is a sense of understanding that without, we are totally adrift. As a history major, you will explore the entire sweep of the human experience – spanning centuries, continents and cultures. You will develop a rich historical perspective and a strong set of skills in research, writing, problem solving, and critical thinking, while coursework in the College of Education and Human Sciences will equip you with the teaching methods that you will need for your future classroom.
The history major is the cornerstone of social studies and with minors and/or coursework in other disciplines, students create a framework from which they can teach the ways that humans have organized their societies, political structures, economies and interactions with other nations. In conjunction with other disciplines, our SDSU History graduating students are trained and capable of succeeding as social studies teachers.
To learn more about careers for history majors please visit the for further information.
Is it for you?
This program will be a good fit if you:
- Are interested in teaching
- Are self-motivated and work well independently
- Are fascinated by history
- Are a good listener and communicator
- Are interested in national and global events
Career Opportunities
- Teacher
- Graduate school
- Youth organization director
- Museum director
- Lawyer (with additional education)
Recent Employers
- SD, MN, and IA School Districts
Suggested Certificates
Suggested Minors
Clubs and Organizations
- History Club of SDSU
- Phi Alpha Theta
- Model UN
Undecided or still deciding on a major and future career?
If you are uncertain about your major and have questions about career planning, you are not alone. Choosing a major or career can be a very difficult decision. The exploratory studies program may be a good fit if you are unsure of your major and career focus. Entering the university in the exploratory studies program will help you gain confidence and valuable insights on majors and minors available at SDSU and future career choices.
In addition, , a self-guided assessment, education and career planning program, will help you reflect on your values, interests, personality traits and skills to provide valuable insight as you explore major and career choices. SDSU students may access FOCUS 2 Career by using their student email and password. After completing FOCUS 2 Career, you may find it helpful to discuss your results with a career coach in the .