History Oakland University

Overview

The History programme at Oakland University offers a rigorous academic foundation that prepares students for a wide range of professional trajectories. By engaging with this curriculum, students develop the ability to communicate persuasively and manage complex information effectively within a supportive learning environment.

This degree provides the unique advantage of combining the extensive resources of a large institution with the personalised attention typically found at small liberal arts colleges. Students benefit from small class sizes and direct interaction with senior faculty members who are accomplished historians and active researchers in their respective fields.

The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, independent analysis, and superior writing skills.

Why History at Oakland University?

One of the primary strengths of the institution is the high level of faculty engagement, as all courses are taught by experienced professors rather than graduate assistants. This ensures that undergraduates receive professional training and mentorship from scholars who publish internationally and command respect in the field.

The department maintains strong connections with local museums, libraries, and preservation organisations throughout Southeast Michigan. These partnerships provide students with valuable opportunities for internships and practical workplace experience, allowing them to build impressive professional resumes while completing their studies.

Students also benefit from significant academic freedom, with the latitude to specialise in specific historical movements, regions, or periods. Expert faculty guidance is available in diverse areas including labour history, women’s history, African American studies, world religions, and the history of modern Asia and Europe.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 23867 per year
• National fee: USD 23867 per year
• Local fee: USD 16772 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum requires the completion of 44 credits, offering flexibility to focus on specific geographic regions or time periods. Modules may include:

• Historical Thinking and Writing
• Historical Research Seminar
• American History
• European History
• History of Africa, Asia, the Middle East or Latin America

Careers with History

Graduates are well-equipped for success in the global information economy, frequently pursuing advanced degrees in law, business, or public administration. The analytical nature of the course prepares students for leadership roles across multiple industries where logical problem-solving is essential.

Common career paths for those completing this degree include roles in journalism, government administration, and nonprofit leadership. Many graduates also find success in business management, banking, marketing, data science, and statistical analysis, or pursue specialised careers in libraries and museums.

For those interested in education, the university offers a dedicated secondary teacher training option. This pathway allows students to qualify for a teaching licence shortly after graduation by completing an additional year of intensive pedagogical training and classroom experience in the local area.