History - General History
The History: General History Bachelor of Arts program at Pennsylvania University is a four-year, full-time undergraduate program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of historical events, social structures, and cultural developments across time and geography. The curriculum integrates historical research, critical analysis, archival studies, political and social history, and cultural studies, enabling students to examine the causes, effects, and significance of historical events. Students engage in research projects, primary source analysis, and collaborative studies, developing the skills to interpret, contextualize, and communicate complex historical knowledge effectively.
Throughout the program, students participate in seminars, workshops, and field studies guided by faculty experts in diverse historical disciplines. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and research proficiency, allowing graduates to connect historical understanding with contemporary social and political issues. Students leave the program with research competence, critical thinking skills, analytical insight, and communication abilities, fully prepared for careers or advanced study in history, education, public policy, or cultural institutions.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: History - General History
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: History
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in History
- Introduction to Historical Methods and Research
- World History Survey I
- World History Survey II
- Critical Thinking and Analysis
Year 2 – Intermediate Historical Studies
- Regional and Comparative History
- Political and Social Movements
- Historical Writing and Research
- Electives: Economic History, Cultural History, or Religious History
Year 3 – Advanced Historical Analysis
- Specialized Topics in History
- Archival Research and Primary Sources
- Applied Historical Research Projects
- Electives: Public History, Oral History, or Museum Studies
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Integration
- Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
- Seminar in Contemporary Historical Issues
- Professional Portfolio Development
- Internship or Experiential Project in Historical Institutions
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the General History program are prepared for careers in education, museum and archival work, research, public policy, cultural organizations, and historical consulting. Alumni may work as educators, researchers, curators, policy analysts, or pursue graduate studies in history, law, public administration, or related fields. The program equips graduates to conduct in-depth research, interpret historical data, and communicate complex ideas effectively. With strong analytical, research, and communication skills, graduates are highly competitive in professional and academic environments that require historical knowledge, critical thinking, and cultural literacy.
Why Choose This Program
This program is distinguished by its integration of historical research, critical analysis, archival studies, and applied historical practice within a four-year curriculum. Students benefit from mentorship, fieldwork opportunities, and hands-on projects that connect theoretical knowledge with real-world historical applications. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and interdisciplinary inquiry, preparing graduates to investigate historical questions, contribute to research and education, and engage meaningfully with cultural and historical institutions. For students passionate about understanding the past, analyzing social and political developments, and applying historical knowledge in professional contexts, this program offers a rigorous, immersive, and career-focused pathway to success.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
