Minor in History
Hours: 18 On-Campus Online
About
The Minor in History at Fort Hays State University provides students with a comprehensive understanding of significant historical events, trends, and movements. This program covers a wide range of topics, from ancient civilizations to contemporary history, enabling students to explore diverse historical contexts and periods. Through engaging coursework and interactive learning experiences, students develop critical thinking, research, and analytical skills that are highly regarded across various professional fields.
Students pursuing the minor have an opportunity to enroll in courses such as World Civilization and Historical Methods. These courses offer foundational knowledge while immersing students in practical activities, including research projects and participation in academic conferences. The minor complements many major fields of study by offering valuable insights and perspectives, thereby enhancing students’ overall academic and professional development.
Why pursue a Minor in History at Fort Hays State University?
The Minor in History offers students a distinctive combination of traditional and contemporary historical studies. By integrating digital history into the curriculum, the program equips students with contemporary tools and methodologies for researching, analyzing, and documenting historical data.
Designed with flexibility in mind, the minor is accessible to both online and on-campus learners, ensuring convenience for students with diverse schedules and learning preferences.
The program is led by a dedicated faculty of experienced historians and educators who are deeply committed to student success. They bring a wealth of academic knowledge and real-world experience to the classroom, creating a rich and engaging learning environment.
FHSU’s strong commitment to affordable education further enhances the value of the program, allowing students to explore their passion for history without excessive financial burden. This makes the minor an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality, accessible, and cost-effective academic experience.
Who is this program for?
The minor is ideal for students interested in understanding historical events and their global impact. It enhances research, analytical, and communication skills, making it a strong complement to many majors. Whether aiming for careers in education, public history, government, or any field that values critical thinking, this minor offers valuable insights and perspectives. It is well-suited for:
- Students majoring in related fields such as political science, sociology, and anthropology
- Aspiring teachers who want to deepen their knowledge of history
- Individuals interested in public history careers, such as museums and archival work
- Students planning to pursue graduate studies in history or related disciplines
- Those seeking to develop vital research, writing, and analytical skills
- Individuals who want to understand the historical context of contemporary issues
Real-World Applications
This minor equips students with critical research and analytical skills for real-world applications. They learn to effectively use primary and secondary sources, an essential skill for careers in education, public history, government, and non-profits. The program emphasizes understanding historical contexts and their relevance to contemporary issues, preparing students to apply their knowledge practically.
Through engaging coursework and hands-on projects, students develop the ability to analyze and interpret historical data, fostering strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. Graduates gain valuable insights by connecting past events to current challenges, making them assets in fields that require strong historical understanding and analytical expertise.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University integrates the latest advancements and trends in historical studies into the curriculum, ensuring students are familiar with contemporary methodologies. Courses are regularly updated to reflect current research and innovative approaches, including digital history, which teaches students to document and analyze historical data using modern technology.
By exploring cutting-edge topics like digital history, students enhance their ability to engage with and contribute to the evolving field of historical research. This up-to-date training prepares graduates not only to understand the past but also to adapt to future developments, making them well-equipped for dynamic professional environments.
Hands-on Activities
The Minor in History strongly emphasizes experiential learning through hands-on activities that complement theoretical knowledge. Courses like HIST 379 - Historical Methods involve practical projects where students conduct in-depth research, applying their skills to real-world scenarios. These experiences prepare students for careers in history-related fields.
The program also offers internships, research opportunities, and participation in academic conferences. These activities provide valuable practical experience, strengthen students’ resumes, and deepen their understanding of historical research and its applications, equipping them for professional success.
What You’ll Learn:
- Continuity and change over time
- Research and analytical skills
- Critical thinking and interpretation
- Historical context understanding
- Effective communication of historical knowledge
How You’ll Learn:
- Interactive Historical Methods courses
- Engaging in online and on-campus classes
- Research projects and presentations
- Digital history initiatives
- Diverse historical period studies
The core curriculum offers essential courses that build a strong foundation in historical study, covering major events and periods from around the world. Students can also select electives focused on specific themes, eras, or regions, allowing them to customize the minor to their interests.
The program includes topics such as ancient civilizations, modern history, and digital history. Through research projects and presentations, students gain a comprehensive understanding of historical contexts and methodologies. Designed to be both rigorous and flexible, the curriculum supports diverse interests and career goals, preparing students for a wide range of professional opportunities.
HIST 111: Modern World Civilization
This course is an introductory survey of the major political, economic, social, and cultural developments in world civilization from approximately 1500 A.D. To the modern day.
HIST 131: US History since 1877
This course is an introductory survey of the major political, economic, social, and cultural developments in the United States' history since 1877.
HIST 379: Historical Methods
This course acquaints students of history with major philosophical concepts and problems underlying their discipline and directs them through the steps of historical research methods to the final product of publication.
Discover the full Minor in History course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
A Minor in History opens doors to many career opportunities. The program equips students with valuable skills in research, critical thinking, and effective communication, making them well-suited for various professional roles. Here are career paths that graduates can pursue:
Teacher
Graduates who become teachers use their history knowledge to educate and inspire students. They develop curricula, deliver engaging lessons, and foster understanding of historical events. By integrating historical perspectives, teachers help students build critical thinking skills and appreciate the complexities of the past.
Public Historian
Graduates work in museums, archives, and historical sites to preserve and present history. They curate exhibits, manage collections, and lead educational programs that engage diverse audiences. Their efforts preserve cultural heritage and promote public understanding of history.
Researcher
Researchers work in academic, public, and private sectors. They investigate historical events and figures, analyze sources, and produce reports and presentations. Their work supports scholarly projects, policy development, and education, advancing historical understanding.
Policy Analyst
Policy analysts use historical knowledge to guide policy development in government and non-profits. They evaluate data, anticipate trends, and provide recommendations. This role demands strong analytical skills and the ability to apply historical insights to current and future challenges, helping shape effective policies.
Journalist
Journalists with a history background add depth to reporting by connecting current events to historical context. They research, write, and create content that helps the public understand today’s issues through a historical lens, enriching public discourse.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,055.95* (on-campus) or $3,975.75* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
The Minor in History is one of several programs that offer students broad educational opportunities. Whether they aim to deepen their understanding of history or explore related disciplines, FHSU offers a variety of options to complement and enhance their academic journey.
A minor can lead to careers in teaching, public history, research, policy analysis, journalism, and more.
The Minor in History offers online and on-campus options, providing flexibility to accommodate your schedule.
Yes, FHSU offers various scholarships and financial aid options for students pursuing a Minor in History.
Students can engage in research projects, internships, conference participation, and digital history initiatives.
The program includes courses in digital history, allowing students to use modern tools and methodologies for historical research and analysis.
Information about the Department of History and Philosophy
The Department of History and Philosophy at FHSU offers a comprehensive educational experience that develops students' critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills.
The History Programs provide in-depth coursework exploring a wide range of historical periods and cultures, preparing students for careers in education, research, public history, and related fields. The Philosophy Programs challenge students to examine fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and values, fostering strong problem-solving skills and a thoughtful, reflective approach to life.
Together, these programs deliver a well-rounded education that combines historical understanding with philosophical inquiry. Graduates are equipped with the intellectual tools to succeed in diverse career paths and to contribute thoughtfully and effectively to society.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- Phi Alpha Theta – History Club: This student organization provides a dynamic environment for engaging in intellectual discussions, film analyses, and activities centered on specific historical themes. The club fosters a collaborative and enriching learning experience for students passionate about history.
- Philosophy Club: This club offers students the opportunity to engage in thoughtful philosophical discussions that span multiple disciplines and address real-world issues, fostering meaningful dialogue between peers and faculty.
- Victor E. History Podcast: Hosted by faculty member Hollie Marquess, this podcast showcases research conducted by students, faculty, and alumni within the History Programs, highlighting diverse historical topics and scholarship.
- Minor
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- On-Campus
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