Bachelor of Arts - History (Optional Co-op)

Located in the heart of Wilkes-Barre's vibrant historic district, Wilkes University is a great place to study history because the past is all around. The Faculty in History at Wilkes believes that education in history enhances students’ communication and critical thinking skills and provides important context for understanding ourselves and the world. Although every student receives individualized advising, the department organizes its programs around three tracks: The History Major (Pre-Law/Pre-Graduate School track) prepares students for advanced study in law, history, or other related professional disciplines. There is ample room in this track for one or more minor fields or a second major of the student’s choice so that the program is easily tailored toward his or her specific interests. The History Major (Public History Concentration) prepares students for entry level work or advanced study in careers that present history to a non-academic audience. Students pursuing this concentration take selected courses in American and public history and also do hands-on-learning through internships. By adding a second major or a minor such as English, Integrated Media, Communication Studies or Business, students may shape their program to suit their own personal interests and enhance their appeal to potential employers and/or graduate school. Careers in this field include museum curator, archive manager, museum educator, cultural resources, and more. The History Major (Secondary Education track) prepares students for careers as secondary education teachers. Students electing this track will be assigned an advisor in history and one in education and will work closely with faculty in each area to meet the course of study mandated by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Students in this track can earn a History Major, Secondary Education Minor and Pennsylvania Secondary Education Certification. Wilkes students have held internships throughout the region at archives and historical sites and museums. If students are interested in non-teaching careers in history (what’s known as “public history” because they are sharing history with the public), internships are a great way to explore these options. Whether students choose to pursue a career in the law or teaching or public history or business, there are faculty members willing to discuss their options and assist them in exploring those options.