History & Legal Studies Programs

The Department of History and Legal Studies is committed to providing students with programs that foster pathways for success. To do this, we ensure accessible faculty who work closely with students to develop critical thinking skills. 

Our programs offer a variety of courses, internship possibilities, research opportunities, and more. 

Majors

History

Are you interested in historical events, and how this learned cultural background can change today’s society? Do you want the ability to work in almost any field? The History major may be for you! 

Through this program, you can learn the skills necessary for a career in today’s ever-changing world.

Social Science History (Teaching)

Is becoming a teacher something you’ve dreamed of?

The History Department’s Social Science/History (Teaching) major prepares you for a career in teaching with the option to focus on various areas.

Legal Studies

This American Board Association-accredited program is one of few in the nation.

If you are thinking about a career in law, the Legal Studies program is a great option. With this major, you can:

  • become a paralegal
  • prepare to enter law school with the skills to advocate for both people and the law as a practicing lawyer at a law firm, government agency, or corporate institution

Legal Studies courses are taught by either current attorneys or those with a great deal of experience in the subject area.

Law & Society

Become a non-legal professional to explore law and legal culture from many interdisciplinary perspectives and how they come together within all aspects of society.

Learn more about the Law & Society major

Pre-Law Pathways

Are you set on going to law school after you earn your bachelor’s degree? These programs are designed to set you up for success. 

Minors

Legal Studies

Prepare for a career in the legal system with an understanding of:

  • how laws are upheld and applied
  • how the justice system operates
  • how you can be an advocate for people and the law

The Legal Studies minor pairs well with other degrees in History, Legal Studies, Criminal Justice, Business Law, and Political Science.

The program is not ABA approved.

History

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

View the required courses for the History minor.

Social Studies (Middle Level Teaching)

If you are looking to teach Social Studies to students in 5-8th grade, this program is for you. The Social Studies (Middle Level Teaching) minor is great for those who want to teach students about history, geography, political science, and economics. 

Contact the History & Legal Studies Department
Dr. Matthew Lungerhausen
Department Chair

Minne Hall 214

507.457.5409

Email Dr. Matthew Lungerhausen
Dr. Gregory Richard
Director of Legal Studies

Minné 209

507.457.5411

Email the Legal Studies Program
Michelle Eggerichs-Rekstad
Office Manager

Minné Hall 212

507.457.5400

Email Michelle Eggerichs-Rekstad