History
The History Bachelor of Science program at the University of Caltech offers a comprehensive and research-oriented education focused on understanding human societies, cultural developments, and historical transformations across time. The curriculum provides foundational training in historical analysis, research methodology, critical reading, and comparative interpretation, enabling students to explore past events with scholarly depth. Through engagement with primary and secondary sources, learners develop the ability to examine historical narratives with analytical clarity, understand diverse perspectives, and construct well-reasoned arguments grounded in evidence. This academic structure encourages students to interpret global developments within broader social, political, and intellectual contexts.
Caltech’s interdisciplinary setting further enriches historical study, allowing students to connect historical inquiry with fields such as political science, science and technology studies, anthropology, and economics. Access to diverse research materials and advanced archival resources strengthens students’ ability to analyze historical patterns and understand how scientific and technological change shapes society. By working alongside faculty actively engaged in historical scholarship, learners deepen their understanding of historical systems and develop skills that support both independent research and collaborative academic work. This combination of methodological training and interdisciplinary exploration prepares graduates to approach historical questions with both rigor and creativity.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: History
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Science
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: California Institute of Technology (Caltech), United States
- Field of Study: History
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations of Historical Study
- Introduction to World History
- Historical Methods and Research Skills
- Academic Writing for the Humanities
- Themes in Global Civilization
Year 2 – Core Historical Themes & Interpretation
- History of Science and Technology
- Political and Social History
- Comparative Civilizations
- Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis in History
Year 3 – Applied Historical Research
- Cultural and Intellectual History
- Electives in Regional or Thematic History
- Archival Research and Source Analysis
- History Research Seminar
Year 4 – Advanced Topics & Capstone Study
- Advanced Historiography or Historical Theory
- Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
- Specialized Topics in Global or Scientific History
- Academic Presentation and Portfolio Development
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program acquire strong analytical, interpretive, and research skills that prepare them for a wide range of careers across academic, cultural, and policy-oriented fields. Many begin professional roles in museums and archives, educational institutions, research organizations, and public policy groups, where the ability to interpret historical data and communicate insights is highly valued. Their training equips them for positions in cultural resource management, editorial work, heritage preservation, and documentary research. Additional opportunities exist in journalism, nonprofit organizations, consulting, and government agencies that require careful analysis of historical trends and societal issues. For those pursuing academic advancement, the program offers excellent preparation for master’s or doctoral studies in history, historical sociology, or related disciplines, supporting careers in academia, scholarly research, and historical consultancy.
Why Choose This Program
This program is an outstanding option for students seeking a research-driven humanities education that strengthens their advanced interpretive insight, enabling them to explore global history with depth and scholarly precision. The University of Caltech offers a highly supportive academic environment grounded in expert faculty guidance, interdisciplinary collaboration, and access to extensive historical resources that enhance methodological learning. Students gain practical experience through archival research, thematic analysis, and seminar-based discussions that mirror professional historical inquiry. The flexible curriculum allows learners to specialize in areas such as scientific history, cultural history, political transformations, or global civilizations. With its emphasis on scholarly precision, critical analysis, and interdisciplinary relevance, the program prepares graduates for meaningful careers in both humanities-focused and applied research fields.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 626 395 3000
Email: admissions@caltech.edu
Address: University of Caltech, 1200 East California Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91125, United States
