History Reveals the Past and Prepares Us for the Future

Students of history learn to analyze human behavior: why have people done certain things? What are the consequences of one action or another? Students of history also learn to research and to write, developing the analytical skills essential for a broad variety of careers: in law, education, public service, business, journalism, or in historical preservation or interpretation. Most importantly, history teaches us to ask questions and search for answers.

Maintaining a broad view of history

The History Program at Suffolk University ensures that each student develops a broad view of history by including a portion of their studies outside of the area of concentration. For example, students with a concentration in History and the Law might satisfy this requirement by taking certain courses in African History, History of Women and Gender, or Latin American History. In consultation with an advisor, History students can augment their major track of concentration witih courses of interest to broaden their historical prospective.

Study in a city of history

Few cities in the country hold as many historical riches as Boston. No university is as central to Boston’s historical treasures as Suffolk University. Boston’s famous Freedom Trail winds though part of the urban campus.  Historical sites of America’s fledgling history, such as Faneuil Hall, the Old State House, the historic North End, the Boston Afro-American Heritage Trail and the Charlestown Navy Yard are just short walks from the campus on Beacon Hill.

Rich in resources

Students of History are encouraged to do original primary research at the Massachusetts Historical Society, the Boston Public Library, Historic New England, and other repositories of rare historical collections. In addition to courses taught by the History Department faculty, students can also take courses with the Director of the USS Constitution Museum, the Site Director of the Old State House, and the Director of Pilgrim Hall in Plymouth. Internships are also available for course credit at these and other historical institutions.

A strong foundation for career growth

History is a key component of the liberal arts. The study of History teaches one to ask questions and search for answers. Students of History learn to research and to write persuasively. Through research, reading and engaging discussion, students develop strong analytical skills and a broad view of the world that is valued in a wide variety of careers.