History exposes students to people, places and times they would otherwise not experience. Through the study of history students learn how the actions of the past have shaped today’s society and may inform the future.
Our courses stress the importance of disciplined methods of inquiry and interpretation, as well as empathy and imagination, and are taught by widely published scholars and seasoned historians. Students may choose to specialize their curriculum in United States, World, African, European, Latin American, or Asian History. Furthermore, courses taught by our faculty support numerous programs on campus including American Studies, Global and International Studies, Medieval and Renaissance Studies, Gender and Women’s Studies, Africa and African-American Studies, and Native American Studies.
Fiddling with history: Musical manuscript unlocks America's past
How is a collection of fiddle music a key to the past? David Deacon of SUNY Oswego's history faculty explains the importance of Thomas Wilson's 1823 fiddle manuscript.
Watch video
History MA candidate receives FESTA Fellowship
Erin Conway, a history master of arts candidate, who worked as an archival intern at the Custom House Maritime Museum in Newburyport, Massachusetts, received the fellowship to help pay for her research and tuition.
Why major in history?
Knowledge of the larger world equips students to enter international fields. Employers are looking for people with problem-solving, persuasive writing, and listening skills learned through a degree in history. Communication skills and the ability to research and write, furnishes history students with the skills needed to enter a wide range of fields from public relations to events management.
Student spotlight
Gabrielle Darling '17
History
I've had the opportunity to explore and research many subjects. This freedom has allowed me to be flexible and adapt to situations as they arise, I think this is what has given me the ability to present my work clearly and accurately.
Student spotlight
Stephanie Cook '19
History
I love learning about the past and understanding how vital it is to understanding the modern world we live in today. In order to create a better world for future generations, it is necessary to have a solid understanding of how this world has been shaped by humanity.
History
