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.

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

Course Information

Major Map

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.

Here are more examples of positions that PLNU history alumni currently hold:

Museum Curator

2025 Median annual salary $57,100
Museum curators manage and preserve collections of art, artifacts, or cultural items. They research, acquire, and organize exhibits while also educating the public through engaging displays. The role requires strong skills in research, communication, and organization. It’s a great fit for those who are detail-oriented, curious, and passionate about history, art, and cultural preservation.

Lawyers

2025 Median annual salary $153,470
Lawyers are dedicated legal professionals who support and represent clients in a wide range of legal matters, from court appearances to contract negotiations. They must be highly organized and skilled in preparing documents such as contracts, wills, lawsuits, and appeals. In today's legal landscape, lawyers also rely on advanced research tools, legal databases, and virtual platforms to manage cases efficiently. Strong communication, composure under pressure, and deep knowledge of legal systems, precedents, and regulations are essential for ensuring fair and effective representation.

Postsecondary Teachers

2025 Median annual salary $88,960
Postsecondary teachers teach academic or technical subjects at colleges, universities, and professional schools. Beyond classroom instruction, they often conduct research, advise students, and contribute to academic administration. With the rise of online and hybrid learning, they regularly use digital tools to enhance teaching and student engagement. The role requires subject expertise, clear communication, and a commitment to lifelong learning and scholarly growth.

Historians

2025 Median annual salary $70,940
Historians research, analyze, and interpret past events using a variety of sources such as documents, artifacts, and oral histories. They often write, publish, or present their findings to help others understand historical contexts and their impact on the present. This career suits individuals who are detail-oriented, curious, strong in critical thinking, and skilled at communicating complex ideas clearly. Historians may work in education, research institutions, museums, archives, or government agencies.

Alumni listed the following skills as the top strengths they acquired as a history student at PLNU: 

• Data analysis
• Event planning
• Research
• Fundraising
• Social networks
• Curriculum development

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.