Honors Program in History

The honors program in History provides outstanding majors with a challenging set of advanced courses and opportunity to pursue independent research.  By the time that they become juniors, most History majors have discovered a particular topic that fascinates them, and some decide to explore that topic in greater depth by choosing the honors option.  Honors in History is demanding.   Completion of the Honors Program is also one of the requirements for admission to the department's accelerated degree program.  Students enter the program by taking a prehonors seminar or proseminar. Admission into the honors program is contingent upon the completion of a prehonors seminar and upon evidence of outstanding work in other history courses. Building on the prehonors course, students write an extensive research thesis (two course credits) under the adviser’s supervision. Seniors take a directed-reading course (one course credit) related to their thesis topic. The program culminates with an oral defense of the student’s thesis. The honors committee includes the student's thesis adviser and one other department member. If the committee finds the thesis or examination unsatisfactory, the student  receives credit for directed readings/research.

The Prehonors Seminar or Proseminar
To enroll in the honors program, students must take one of the department’s seminars or proseminars that emphasize the development of research, analytical and writing skills. A significant part of these courses is devoted to the writing and revising of research papers. Students should consult with their advisers or the department chair in selecting a course that satisfies the prehonors requirement. This course is normally taken during the junior year.