What We Do
Earning a degree in history provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the issues and events that shape today’s global society. Studying history is also a proven way to develop the analytical and communication skills necessary for success in most fields, including business, law, journalism, public policy, and teaching.
Our department features an award-winning faculty that cares about your growth as a student and an individual. We connect the past to the present, offering in-depth study of the world’s major civilizations, cultures, and events. From ancient to contemporary times, course offerings span the globe and include the histories of the Americas, Europe, Africa and Asia.
Contact Information
Nerina Rustomji, Ph.D.
Professor and Chair
718-990-5227
[email protected]
Frances Balla
Department Secretary
St. John Hall, Room 244F
718-990-6229
[email protected]
Programs of Study
The major in History requires the successful completion of 36 credits in History, including
Required classes (12 credits)
HIS 1000 Emergence of a Global Society
HIS 1010 Foundations of World History to 1500
HIS 2990 Introduction to History (Sophomore Seminar)
HIS 4990 Senior Seminar
Elective classes (24 credits) for incoming students entering Fall 2023 and beyond
U.S. History 2 courses
World History 4 courses from 3 of 5 different categories (Africa, non-U.S. Americas, Asia, Europe, and Transregional)
History Electives 2 courses from any category (U.S. history, Africa, non-U.S. Americas, Asia, Europe, Transregional, Internship or Independent Study)
The minor in History requires the successful completion of 15 credits in History, including:
HIS 1000 Emergence of a Global Society
HIS 1010 Foundations of World History to 1500
History Electives 3 courses (9 credits) chosen in consultation with a faculty advisor. One of the courses must be from the Africa, non-U.S. Americas, Asia, or Transregional category.