History, minor

History, minor

Program Overview

Are your favorite stories those of history's defining moments, of courageous heroes and epic battles? Do these stories and the lessons in them influence the way you view the world, both as it is and as it could be? If so, pursuing a history minor, combined with any number of majors, will allow you to blend your zeal for history with your desire for meaningful work.

A minor in history can complement a host of other majors, diversifying and undergirding your education with an expanded understanding of world cultures. The enhanced research, writing, critical thinking skills, and global knowledge you will acquire will prepare you for graduate school or the career field of your choice. Whether your dreams lie in business, law, education, politics, writing, or anywhere else, these foundational skills and specialization will make you stand out.

Additionally, as a history minor you are invited to 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.

Insights and Stories

Christine Abrell Teaches Traditional Dance in Birthright Armenia
Is Adding a Minor to Your Degree Worth It?

Visualizing History

Words from History Grads

"Challenging & Changing"
"Transformative Participation"
Discover More
Videos (2)
Articles (4)
Quotes (2)
Christine Abrell Teaches Traditional Dance in Birthright Armenia PLNU’s Christine Abrell connecting to her culture through Birthright Armenia program. Discover
Is Adding a Minor to Your Degree Worth It? Learn more about college minors, how to add a minor to your degree, and how future employers see value in adding a college minor to your degree. 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
What is Voting Good For? Absolutely Everything Lindsey Lupo, PhD, shares the importance of voting and how everyone who is able to do so should find a way to cast their ballot. 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.

Course List

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

Course Information

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.

Apply Now

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

Career Opportunities

In an increasingly interconnected world, the strengths of those with a deep historical and cultural understanding endure — our society depends on people who can think critically, read analytically, understand interculturally, research deeply, articulate clearly, and write cogently. In fact, employers highly rank such abilities. History minors at PLNU cultivate these strengths in a Christian context that nurtures their intellectual and spiritual lives and equips them to be reasoned and ethical leaders in a variety of careers.

A minor in history can be a useful and natural complement to a variety of careers and industries, including:

  • Domestic or International Law
  • Journalism
  • Domestic or International Business
  • Teaching
  • Media Communication
  • Nonprofit Organization
  • Public Relations

Department Faculty

Get Involved

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.