About the Program
Shape the future by studying our past. As a historian, you will engage with a wide variety of subjects, cultures and movements. You will gather and evaluate sources, present and defend your arguments, and develop the critical thinking skills needed across industries. Our program offers two options, General History and Pre-Credential, to help you tailor your education to your career goals.
The Polytechnic Approach
Experience hands-on history through analyzing historical documents, conducting research projects and participating in internships. Our immersive learning style allows you to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings, providing you with reasoning, communication, and problem-solving skills. Whether you want to become an educator or pursue a career in fields such as law, business or curation, studying history gives you the context to understand the world today and prepares you to take on tomorrow.
Career Outcomes
Program Emphasis
Courses
As a history student, you will take a series of required courses that provide critical historical analysis skills, including The Study and Practice of History, research methods and historiography, and a research seminar focused on digital history and primary-source research. You will also complete a Senior Thesis class, during which you do research in primary and secondary sources on a topic of your choice and write a senior thesis.
Celebrating Student Achievements
Awards
The History Department gives six annual awards for outstanding undergraduate achievement, celebrating outstanding projects and service to the department.
Featured Faculty
Since 2016, John Lloyd has been involved in efforts to improve and encourage sustainable transportation alternatives at Cal Poly Pomona and surrounding communities. He currently serves on the Academic Senate, chairs the Senate Budget Committee, and co-chairs the...John Lloyd Professor of History
What’s the Difference?
General History vs. Pre-Credential History
The General History option provides you with a foundation for a variety of fields including law, business, civil service and graduate school. The Pre-Credential option prepares you for a fifth-year credential program and is best suited for those who want to teach history or social science in middle and high schools.
