Program Description

The study of history at Springfield College is designed to provide students with a basic body of historical and related knowledge which will enable them to better understand the world they inhabit, the problems of their society, and their own lives. The College believes that this core of historical understanding enables students to function as educated and informed citizens in a democratic society. A knowledge of history and its methodology helps students understand the origins and background of contemporary problems, allowing them to deal more effectively with those problems. Furthermore, a knowledge of the ethnic and cultural diversity that has created the present will help students to communicate and cooperate in a multicultural society.

Another major goal of the history program is to assist students in developing analytical, problem-solving, research, and writing skills. The major emphasizes content and information but is also designed to foster the skills and attitudes that will increase the ability of graduates to find employment, regardless of their occupational goals. Careers in government service, law, business, and teaching readily follow the training of those who major in this discipline.

Students complete core requirements in history and related social sciences, and they have the option to pursue a concentration, deepening their focus in a particular area or corollary of history. History majors may also opt to seek licensure as a teacher of history at the secondary level.

Are you interested in a law school degree? Pre-law advising is available to any student interested in pursuing a law school degree. Contact Dr. Thomas Carty, pre-law advisor, at (413) 748-3254. Click here to learn more.

Undergraduate Curriculum Overview

The Academic Advising Center provides the following repositories of sequencing and curriculum guides for all undergraduate majors and minors to assist with course planning:  

• Sequencing Guides - Majors (Traditional Population)  
• Sequencing Guides - Minors (Traditional Population) 
• Curriculum Guides (Regional and Online Population)

Additional Notes:

• There may be circumstances where credit totals do not reflect coursework that is eligible to count towards Core Curriculum and Major Requirement sections of a major simultaneously.
• Degree requirements are subject to change. 

I. Core Curriculum (40 credits)

This Core Curriculum is faithful to the Springfield College mission and further strengthens the Humanics philosophy of educating students in spirit, mind, and body. It is a cornerstone of a Springfield College education. Regardless of one’s major, it provides a strong, developmental, and holistic foundation for leaders in service to humanity. Upon completion, all graduates will be prepared to learn, lead, and serve in diverse, multicultural, and global contexts as well as in any career path they may choose. They will have the knowledge, habits of the mind, skills, and abilities to face unexpected situations and challenges, the values and attitudes for self-motivation and a vision of service that stems from hope, optimism and making a difference, as well as the self-determination to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.

View the Core Curriculum Requirements (40 credits)  section for a complete list of the domains and courses therein.

II. Major Requirements (36 credits)

III. Electives (to complete a minimum of 120 credits)