History Major & Minors
About the program
History is a popular major at Roanoke College. Students who study history learn strong research, critical thinking and writing skills through extensive projects and one-on-one work with Roanoke professors.
Why study history at Roanoke?
- Work closely with an array of experts. Roanoke's History Department boasts as many tenured professors as some large state institutions. They teach everything from Latin American and African history to public and European history.
- Study public history. This program of study can lead to unique careers in history, from museum curators to work with non-profit organizations.
- Surround yourself with history. Salem's beginnings date back to 8,000 B.C., and the city, a Civil War stronghold, once was marketed as the "Switzerland of the South."
- Live out Roanoke's traditions. Roanoke's annual History Homecoming, the college community gathers at a campus bonfire, and celebrates with a party afterwards. The annual Selby Cup tests the mettle of young historians over an intense mini golf course spread out over the multiple floors of the Bank Building.
Explore history firsthand
- Play in the dirt. Roanoke history students search for artifacts during archaeological digs and intern with Virginia's archeological office.
- Travel the world. Students go to Argentina, Germany, England and many other places through Roanoke's May term history classes and other study abroad opportunities.
- See other opportunities.
Be prepared for the future
- Ninety-one percent of those who participated in the alumni survey indicated receiving job offers or acceptance to graduate school within six months of graduation. History major graduates have worked at such places as the Library of Congress, Mt. Vernon, Inc., Smithsonian Institution and the State Library of Virginia. More information.