History
Program Type
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Contact
- Academic Advising
- (815) 921-4100
- RVC-Admissions@rockvalleycollege.edu
- Main Campus - Classroom Building I
About the Program
Discover our past, including the events, people, and ideas that have shaped human societies over time. Students in a history program develop research, critical thinking, and analytical skills that are essential for understanding the complexities of the world around us.
What can I do with this degree?
Taking history courses at RVC can be the start to a rewarding career. Many RVC students who have taken history classes at RVC transfer to a four-year college or university. This paves the way for rich and rewarding careers in education, publishing, law or politics.
Program Pathways
Students should meet with an Academic Advisor to develop a clear pathway leading to a seamless transfer experience or transition to the workforce. For additional possibilities that may require an advanced degree or certification, make an appointment with an Academic Advisor.
- College or University Teaching. This is one of the most desirable careers for history majors. For those who go on to a master’s degree, openings may be available in community colleges. University teaching positions may be available to those who earn a PhD.
- High School Teaching. Certification to teach high school history or social studies may be obtained by completing a BA degree and passing state certification requirements.
- Museums. Museum-related professions include curators, collection managers, and museum educators. Additional technical training may be required beyond a BA degree, such as a museum studies certificate or a master’s degree in public history.
- Archives and Libraries. The creation of special documents collections, presidential libraries, state archives, research centers, and historical societies has increased opportunities for persons with history training. Additional technical training may be required, like a certificate or a master’s degree in public history.
- Historic Preservation. Whether it is a privately owned, or one administered by local, state, or the federal government, this field of history is responsible for preserving and maintaining historic sites. Additional technical training may be required, like a certificate or a master’s degree in public history.
- Government Service. Careers for historians exist in local, state, and federal governments, including military and security-related fields.
- Journalism. As history is dependent on primary source research, it is great preparation for students who seek careers in journalism.
- Law. History is one of several fields especially suitable as pre-law education.
- Graduate Studies. History is an exceptionally good discipline for preparation for graduate studies in fields that require broad, liberal arts education at the undergraduate level.