History Degree Programs

History

As a History major at Dean College, learn how to interpret and analyze historical sources in the search for truth, greater understanding and answers to today’s most pressing questions.

Program Overview

History is more than what’s written in dusty textbooks. It’s a first-person account passed down from a 94-year-old World War II veteran, a new presidential biography based on recently discovered documents, and the ongoing process of research and analysis.

As an associate or bachelor’s degree student in History at Dean College, you will gain a broad understanding of the major forces and events of U.S. and world history, the diversity of historical perspectives, and the research and analytical methods to make sense of it all.

You’ll study the cultural, social, political, economic and religious influences on human development. You’ll explore a variety of primary and secondary sources (including original documents, film, music and visual images) and build information literacy skills in order to recognize, evaluate and critique the evidence on which historical narratives are based. You’ll also take hands-on public and digital history courses, examining how historians construct history and present it for various audiences. And you’ll build rhetorical, analytical and communication skills as you learn how to draw lessons from the past to address contemporary problems.

Core courses and electives include:

Making History
Reading World Revolutions
Cold War America: Culture and Conflicts
The Holocaust in History and Memory
Globalization in History
Modern Latin America and the Caribbean
History of Gender and Sexuality

Students majoring in History can take part in Dean’s Humanities in Action Initiative. Through Humanities in Action, students can gain hands-on-experience, career-readiness, make professional connections, and they learn about the importance of the humanities in civic engagement. Learn more about Humanities in Action | Dean College.

Dean College professor working with a student

School of Liberal Arts Faculty

Gain valuable insights from our School of Liberal Arts faculty, who are here to help you every step of the way.

Uniquely Dean

Dean College professor working with two students.

Explore local history and prepare for your future career through the Dean College History program.

Complete a for-credit internship with a Boston-area museum or historical society. Our students have interned with the Franklin Historical Museum, Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum, Voice of America (Washington Center), Foxboro Regional Charter School, AES Corporation and Congressional Internships (Washington, D.C. and Rhode Island, District 2).
Engage with professors and classmates in small, discussion-based classes and seminars.
Choose a topic that you’re passionate about and dive deeply into original research for a senior capstone project.
Build your career skills and portfolio by publishing your work in digital history and creating exhibitions in public history.
Learn methods and techniques of bringing academic history to a public audience through a variety of media.
Dean College is the home base for the New England Journal of History, where you can pursue internships and other learning opportunities.
Participate in the video series, History in Your Backyard by the New England Journal of History.
Attend the History Majors Reception at the Franklin Historical Museum to enjoy a Dean History presentation, refreshments and mingling with faculty, staff and students.
Dig into history right here on campus. Learn more about the history of Dean College leadership.
You will have the opportunity to visit the America's first public library, the Franklin Public Library, located next to campus!
Did you know that Boston is just 30 minutes away from Dean? You can even take a short walk from campus right to the Franklin/Dean College stop and hop on the MBTA. Having Boston at your fingertips is great, especially for a history buff. Learn about historical sites to check out on a historical adventure in Boston.

Beyond the Classroom

Dean College students studying on campus

At Dean, you’ll bring history to life and develop career skills in everything you do.

Every History student has the opportunity to complete a for-credit internship with a local or regional museum, historical society, library or nonprofit organization. In addition, bachelor’s degree candidates complete a detailed senior capstone project involving extensive research and the opportunity to make valuable professional connections.

You’ll also participate in co-curricular and experiential learning opportunities regularly. Our recent field trips include the Boston Museum of Fine Arts, Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, Harvard Museums of Science and Culture, Russell Museum of Medical History and Innovation and Massachusetts Independent Comics Expo.

When you graduate, you’ll be prepared for a career in public history, digital humanities, museum work, historical societies, archival work or education. The research and writing skills developed in this major will also prepare you for many fields of employment, including government, the business world, journalism, media and law. A degree in History is also an excellent foundation for further study, including master’s programs in history or political science, law school, journalism school, film school and more. It all starts at Dean.

Get Involved

Learn more about how to get involved with our student-run organizations and experiential learning opportunities.

Local History Explore local history in Franklin and Boston, MA.

Local History

Located in Franklin, MA and just a short train ride or drive from Boston, Dean College is surrounded by history. Take advantage of internship opportunities with local museums and historical societies, or explore historical sites on your own to bring your studies to life. Learn more about the history of Franklin, MA.

History professors Dr. Davis Dennis and Dr. Rob Lawson also co-created a public history series called History in Your Backyard series. You need not be a professional historian to participate! With a bit of research, a video camera, and passion for local history, you too can join us. Learn more about how you can participate.
Study Abroad Gain global perspectives through one of our study abroad programs.

Study Abroad

Explore the world and bring your education to life. Dean College offers three types of study away programs for you to choose from. Participate in a travel course, a full academic course you take for credit that integrates a 7-10 day trip to the region you’re studying as part of the class. Study away without leaving the United States through the Washington Center in Washington, D.C. and the Disney College Program in Orlando, FL. Or study abroad for a full semester or year through one of our study abroad programs and affiliated partners. Learn more about study abroad opportunities.
Student Clubs and Activities Join one of our 40+ student organizations, or start one of your own.

Student Clubs and Activities

Meet fellow students and pursue your passions by joining one of our 40+ student clubs and activities. Enhance your education through academic clubs or build your leadership skills through on-campus programs. Give back to the community through community service organizations and activities both on-campus and in Franklin, including Best Buddies and Dean Community Outreach (DCO). Don’t see the club you’re looking for? Start one yourself. Learn more about student activities and involvement.