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History

Availability: Gulf Park and Hattiesburg Options

History

Why Study History?

History teaches students to understand the origins and transformations of diverse peoples and societies. It allows us to compare differences among societies and recognize what makes us all human. Examining the past provides insight into the present world in which we live and fosters good citizenship. Students prepare to interpret the complexities of our interconnected planet and develop practical skills in critical analysis, solid writing, research methods, oral presentation and the use of evidence.

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29 scholarly books published by faculty
7undergraduate scholarships for History majors
20active members, Phi Alpha Theta

What Will I Learn?

History course offerings are broad, but the curriculum is designed so that students may specialize in specific regions and time periods. There are opportunities to explore and develop skills in:

  • Analytical, Research, Writing and Verbal skills
  • World History
  • The History of Human Interactions
  • Histories of North America, Africa, and Europe
  • Study of War and Society
  • Study of the Gulf South
  • Oral History & Cultural Heritage
  • International Studies
  • History Education

Students may receive college credit for internships in a variety of professional and public history settings. Licensure students will spend time in numerous Mississippi classrooms, working with mentor teachers, History faculty and area principals. Their final semester will be spent student teaching in an area school.

History was the founding department of the Undergraduate Research Symposium and our classes promote primary research skills. Our students have written Honors theses and presented at national academic conferences. The Social Studies Licensure program is designed to prepare students to teach in middle and high school, but it also develops the research, writing, and analytical skills necessary for law school, graduate school and other non-teaching career paths

History offers seven undergraduate History scholarships and awards based on both merit and financial need.

  • Dr. John E. Gonzales Award
  • Dr. John E. Gonzales Scholarship
  • Dr. John E. Gonzales Study Abroad Scholarship
  • Claude E. Fike Scholarship
  • Dr. Kenneth G. McCarty History Scholarship
  • Nolena Love Stephens Memorial Secondary Education History Licensure Scholarship
  • Carroll Warren & Parker History Scholarship

Visit the USM Foundation for more information. 

 History faculty lead Study Abroad programs to England, Cuba, France and Vietnam.

Visit the Office of Study Abroad for more information. 

Schedule an appointment.

Professional Licensure Disclosure

Programs at the University of Southern Mississippi that prepare students for initial licensure as educators are designed to meet the licensure standards set by the Mississippi Department of Education. Students seeking licensure in another state are advised to contact the appropriate licensing board in that state to determine specific requirements of guidelines for reciprocity. The University of Southern Mississippi cannot confirm whether a particular licensure program meets requirements for licensure outside of the State of Mississippi. For specific information, please contact Jennifer Wild (Jennifer.wildFREEMississippi).  For a list of the state departments of education that oversee professional teaching licensure, see the U.S. Department of Education website - State Contacts page.

Availability

Degree Plan Availability
History (Social Studies Education) BAGulf Park, Hattiesburg
History BAGulf Park, Hattiesburg
History Minor
History and Music History Minor

Contact Us

School of Humanities
Liberal Arts Building (LAB 347)
118 College Drive, Box #5047
Hattiesburg, MS 39406

Hattiesburg Campus

Campus Map

Email
historyFREEMississippi

Phone
601.266.4320

Contact Us

School of Humanities
Elizabeth Hall (EH)
730 East Beach Boulevard
Long Beach, MS 39560

Gulf Park Campus

Campus Map

Email
historyFREEMississippi

Phone
228.214.3245

  • Teaching (K-12 and University)
  • Government and Politics
  • Law and Criminal Justice
  • Archives, Libraries, and Museums
  • Business and Non-Profit Work
  • Writing, Journalism, and Filmmaking
  • Anna Leigh Todd, 2013
    Graduate Student, University of Pennsylvania
  • Jerri Whitecotton
    Teacher and Department Chair, Oak Grove High School
  • Christopher Ellis III, 2018
    Forrest County Agricultural High School
  • Collin Makamson, 2003
    Museum Educator, National World War II Museum in New Orleans, LA
  • Brooke Boisseau
    Law School, University of Virginia