History, B.A.

History, B.A.

Program Overview

Are your favorite stories those of history's defining moments, of courageous heroes and epic battles? Do you have a passion to share these stories and the lessons in them? Do you feel called to educate future generations? If so, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in History will allow you to blend your zeal for history with your desire for meaningful work.

With research interests as varied as peasant rebellions in China, Japan, and Korea; European construction of identity through art; and gender and class in the American west, PLNU history professors are active scholars who believe history is so much more than rote memorization. Faculty use traditional and contemporary approaches to historical study in their courses, inviting you to experience history for yourself in the classroom, at an internship, and while studying abroad; one course is even taught sailing along the California coast!

This experiential learning will equip you with a solid foundation of historical knowledge, as well as the essential writing, research, and communication skills necessary for teaching high school, going on to graduate school, or moving into a variety of others careers such as law, foreign service, conservation, intelligence, and broadcast journalism.

Additionally, as a history major you can join the History Honor Society, Phi Alpha Theta, or the Pre-Law Society, both of which help to foster meaningful relationships with your peers. You might also choose to present your research at an academic conference; participate in events hosted by our Institute of Politics and Public Service and the Margaret Stevenson Center for Women's Studies; or travel around the world on a faculty-led trip, studying history’s greatest stories in the locations they took place. Whatever your interests are, PLNU offers a multitude of ways to connect with your passions.

Dr. Rick Kennedy Rowing a Boat

Spotlight

Rick Kennedy, Ph.D.

For years, Dr. Rick Kennedy, professor of history at PLNU, has been taking a group of students on a California history course where they also learn to sail. Passionate about both history and sailing, Kennedy calls the course “intense” and “experimental.” His students call it “beyond extraordinary.”

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Course List

For information about the courses required for the History, B.A. program, view the PLNU Catalog. 

Course Information

Major Map

Start Application

Are you ready to take the next step to begin your PLNU journey? Whether you’re a high school senior, college transfer student, or international student, find out what we’re looking for in our applicants and how you can apply.

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Student Support

For most students, the transition into college life is one full of adjustments. There is the excitement of newfound freedoms, but also some uncertainty as you begin to make choices and take responsibility for your own future. 

At PLNU, we’re committed to supporting you — academically, professionally, spiritually, personally — so that you may be successful both in your time as a student and beyond. That’s why we offer a holistic support system that focuses on your unique experiences, particular needs, and personal and professional goals — resulting from our deep concern for you, our student.

With a focus on authentic relationships and personalized attention, our goal is to help transform you so you can follow your calling in your own career and life.

Student Support

Empowering Voices

Christine Abrell Teaches Traditional Dance in Birthright Armenia
Renate Chancellor and Social Justice in the Library Sciences

Visualizing History

Words from History Grads

"Challenging & Changing "
"Transformative Participation "

Moments in Time

Discover More
Videos (2)
Articles (5)
Quotes (3)
Pictures (4)
Christine Abrell Teaches Traditional Dance in Birthright Armenia PLNU’s Christine Abrell connecting to her culture through Birthright Armenia program. Discover
Renate Chancellor and Social Justice in the Library Sciences Law librarian Renate Chancellor explores the ways libraries play in a role in social justice and diversity. Discover
Lindsay Morgan Talks Policy and Social Transformation Asking questions on global policy and justice is core to Lindsay Morgan’s work as the managing editor for the Institute on Global Conflict and Cooperation. Discover
Distinguished Achievement Awardee: Dan Copp, D.Min. Dan Copp supports six world regions through his work at the Global Ministry Center for the Church of the Nazarene. It’s a far cry from the life he was accustomed to as a child. Discover
Faculty Spotlight: Rick Kennedy, Ph.D. At sea off Santa Cruz Island headed toward Santa Barbara, six students and a professor are reading aloud to one another from Two Years Before the Mast by Richard Henry Dana. They are in history class, albeit a quite unconventional one. For the past 10 years, Dr. Rick Kennedy, professor of history at PLNU, has Discover
Challenging & Changing
"The study of history forces you to wrestle with hard questions about humanity, the good and the bad. So you can’t help but be changed by the study of it, and by the discussion you have with others who are wrestling with the same ideas as well"
Erin McCoy History B.A.
Transformative Participation
"The seed of my interest in global development came from when I was a little kid, being raised in a church that cares about the outside world, and participates in that world. I think of that core tenet of Wesleyan theology, this idea that we should participate in transformation. When we participate in the world, it also affects our own personal worlds."
Lindsay Morgan History B.A.
Connecting Roots
"I'm looking to help people connect to the past that is within and all around them. Whether through their own roots or the heritage that surrounds them."
Christine Abrell History B.A.

Career Opportunities

As a history major at Point Loma Nazarene University, you’ll dive into some of the most fascinating and complex topics — from global conflicts to social movements — while building essential skills in research, analysis, organization, and communication. Through engaging with historical, political, environmental, and cultural subjects, you’ll gain the tools to understand change and continuity over time and apply those insights to real-world challenges.

At PLNU, history isn’t just about the past — it’s a powerful foundation for your future. You'll learn to think critically and creatively, develop compelling arguments, and communicate ideas clearly — skills that are valuable in virtually any profession. Whether your path leads to teaching, law, public service, journalism, or museum work, a Bachelor of Arts in History equips you with the intellectual curiosity and versatile abilities to thrive in a wide range of careers.

Recent alumni have worked for museums, law firms (Best Best & Krieger LLP), international nonprofit organizations (Action Without Borders, Inc. or Idealist), banking and financial organizations (1st Financial Bank USA), Fortune 500 companies (Activision Blizzard, Inc.), and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Museum Curator

A Museum Curator is responsible for managing collections of artifacts, overseeing exhibitions, and ensuring the preservation of historical items. They research, acquire, and interpret objects, creating engaging exhibits to educate the public about history and culture. Museum Curators typically work in museums, galleries, historical sites, or archives, and may also find opportunities in research institutions, universities, or as independent consultants.

  • Median Pay: $57,100/year
  • Number of Jobs: 37,500
  • Job Outlook (2023–2033): +11%
  • Employment Change: +4,000 jobs
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Lawyer

A Lawyer provides legal counsel, represents clients in court, and interprets the law to ensure justice is served in various cases, from criminal defense to corporate law. They conduct legal research, draft legal documents, and advocate on behalf of clients in negotiations or trials. Lawyers can work in law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, or as solo practitioners, with opportunities for specialization in areas like criminal, civil, or corporate law, or even working for non-profits and international organizations.

  • Median Pay: $151,160/year
  • Number of Jobs: 859,000
  • Job Outlook (2023–2033): +5%
  • Employment Change: +44,200 jobs
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Historians

A Historian researches, analyzes, and interprets past events, providing insights into how history has shaped the present and future. They work with primary sources, artifacts, and records to create detailed accounts and engage in academic or public history projects. Historians can work in universities, museums, government agencies, or archives, and many also find opportunities in publishing, research organizations, or as independent consultants and authors.

  • Median Pay: $74,050/year
  • Number of Jobs: 3,400
  • Job Outlook (2023–2033): +6%
  • Employment Change: +200 jobs
View Full BLS Profile

Using Your History Degree: 

History majors are passionate intellectuals who are dedicated to their respective historical fields. Studying history proves to be a firm foundation for countless potential careers as it prepares you to be a well-rounded and informed individual with a complex understanding of the history of human nature. 

As American writer and novelist Pearl Buck once said, “If you want to understand today, you have to search yesterday.” PLNU history majors do just that, search the past and subsequently learn to understand the development of human nature and culture. Being a history major is the ideal choice for someone who wants to further understand humanity’s past, present, and future. 

Apply to PLNU today or get connected with one of our counselors for additional support and answers to any questions you may have.

Department Faculty

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Instructor Teaching Class

Pre-Law

PLNU has a robust program of pre-law advising to assist students in their journey toward becoming a legal professional.

Colt Hall On Campus

Phi Alpha Theta

Do you love history, even if it’s not your major? Phi Alpha Theta is a national honor society for students from any major who have a passion for history.