The bridge and the city of Winona at dusk.

Studying History at WSU

Why Major or Minor in History?

So you’re considering becoming a history major or minor? Let’s get this point out of the way. As a history major you can go on to work in almost any career that you choose!

Studying the craft of history allows students to:

  • Build a set of skills employers are looking for in the 21st century
  • Hone organization and presentation skills
  • Sharpen critical thinking through the investigation of an abundance of materials

There is no substitute for being able to evaluate evidence and make clear, concise and convincing arguments.

Any career that rewards clear thinking, good writing, articulate speaking and the ability to ask and decipher complicated questions will be open to a well-trained History major.

Moreover, history provides students with a cultural background to function in today’s contemporary, globalized society, providing students with in-depth knowledge of societies from the past to the present era.


Degree Requirements


History Major

The Department of History and Legal Studies offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in history. The major builds upon entry level foundation courses in history that are in WSU’s general education curriculum.

At the upper division level, students will complete courses in Historical Methods and a Senior Research Seminar, along with 24 300- or 400-level credit hours chosen from a list of rotating curriculum offerings. History majors should pay special attention to research requirements for the capstone course.

The major is accessible to transfer students or those wishing to add a second major or minor. Likewise, history majors at WSU are often able to add a second major or minor.

A Major Map (PDF) is available to help students plan to complete their major coursework in four years. The Transfer Pathways Major Map (PDF) is a version to help transfer students plan their coursework.

Additionally, the WSU course catalog provides a full descriptions of all offered history courses.


History Minor

The history minor consists of 18 credit hours. Letter grade required in all minor courses unless otherwise noted. 2.0 GPA required.  

Students complete one Lower-Level Cultural Diversity & Global Perspectives (3 CR), one Lower-Level Survey (3 CR), one Upper-Level Cultural Diversity & Global Perspectives (3 CR), and three electives (9 CR) at least two elective courses (6 CR) must be 300 / 400 level.  Electives are subject to advisor approval.