Opportunities

Study Away 

The History Department actively supports and encourages students to participate in study-away programs. Living and studying in another country can empower you to explore the global dimensions of history, gain new perspectives, and broaden your intellectual horizons. Faculty will work with you on getting coursework completed while abroad to count toward the History major. Recent and popular locations for history-focused study-away programs include Japan, Scotland, and Vietnam. Studying away challenges you to adapt to new environments, develop intercultural competencies, and enhance your communication and problem-solving skills — all valuable qualities in an increasingly interconnected world. Explore study away programs.

Research 

Doing research is part of many courses and History majors complete a capstone research project their senior year. Conducting in-depth research cultivates a range of valuable skills such as learning to critically evaluate evidence, formulate arguments, and craft a coherent narrative that supports the research objectives. You learn how to think critically, synthesize information, analyze complex issues, and present your findings in a clear and persuasive manner. Faculty act as mentors, offering guidance and feedback throughout the research process. They help you refine your research questions, navigate primary and secondary sources, and develop effective research methodologies.

Internships 

History students at Gustavus are encouraged to seek internships locally, nationally, or internationally to gain practical experience and explore potential career paths. Internships can be undertaken during the academic year or over the summer, allowing students to gain practical experience while still in school. Find an internship.

Career Readiness 

The Center for Career Development and History faculty members provide resources and guidance to help you explore career paths, search for internships and job opportunities, and develop your professional skills. They help you identify your interests and strengths and connect them with relevant career opportunities.

Fulbright English Teaching Assistantships and JET 

The highly competitive Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship (ETA) program is a prestigious opportunity regularly awarded to History majors. This program allows alumni to teach English abroad and promote cultural exchange, further enhancing their global perspective. The JET (Japanese Exchange and Teaching) Program is another popular opportunity for History students interested in teaching and living in Japan. The Fellowships Office has resources to help you find an opportunity.

Department Events 

The History Department regularly hosts events and guests. This includes lectures and class visits by world-renowned experts, alumni meeting with classes for career networking, and Pizza, Profs and the Past, where faculty discuss their research.

Learning for Life Podcast 

Archives of the Learning for Life Podcast, hosted by the late History professor Greg Kaster, are still interesting to listen to.  The podcast dives into the connections between liberal arts education and contemporary issues. With its thought-provoking discussions, the podcast aims to inspire listeners to think critically, foster intellectual curiosity, and apply their learning to real-world contexts. From conversations with cancer and climate change researchers to behind-the-scenes glimpses into higher ed decision-making, Kaster's short, engaging interviews introduce listeners to the people behind the ideas.