Why History and Philosophy?

The History and Philosophy Department's undergraduate program is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the past while teaching important analytical skills, including: research, writing, communication, source evaluation, critical thinking, and analysis that enable students to succeed in a wide variety of careers.

A historical perspective is valuable in nearly every profession. History provides the essential background for understanding the roots of social issues and current global problems. We welcome all students to take our courses. You might even consider a minor in history!
  
Many history majors enroll in Westfield’s teacher licensure program for middle and secondary education. For those students, we additionally offer an M.Ed. in History. History majors may plan to attend graduate school in a variety of subjects, or pursue careers in business, library science, museums, historic preservation, or nonprofit administration, among others. 

For those who prefer remote learning, we offer a terrific online history B.A. program. Since 2012, Westfield State University has consistently ranked in the top 15% of U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Online Bachelor’s Program” rankings. In 2016, Westfield State was ranked #6 by CollegeChoice.net in the category “Best Online Liberal Arts Colleges for Bachelors Degrees.”

Students eager to enhance their undergraduate journey with profound philosophical insights, should explore a minor in philosophy. With a curriculum encompassing 18 credits of diverse philosophy courses, this minor provides flexibility, allowing you to tailor your academic path without adhering to a rigid course sequence. Our emphasis on personalized advising ensures a seamless integration of the minor into your individual educational aspirations and interests.

Contact us

Dr. Nicholas Aieta
Chair - History and Philosophy Department
Bates Hall 116A

Mission:

The undergraduate history major is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the past while teaching important skills, including research, writing, communication, source evaluation, critical thinking, and analysis that enable students to succeed in a wide variety of careers. The department believes that a historical perspective is valuable in nearly every profession.  

History provides the essential background for understanding the roots of social issues and current global problems to build a deeper understanding of our contemporary world by studying the past and present.  

The department’s mission supports that of the university in a number of areas, including providing quality undergraduate education in the liberal arts and cultivating academic excellence through curriculum that emphasizes scholarly writing and research. We provide training and the development of skills that can lead to graduates becoming responsible leaders in the greater community as well as engaged citizens.