Department of History

History is the study of the past. Its objective is to understand the past, and through the past, to understand the present. The discipline of history is more than 2,500 years old and remains a vital body of knowledge in the 21st century.

Students who are interested in becoming a lawyer should seriously consider a major in history as a foundation for law school. Law is a historical phenomenon and part of the political, social, and economic processes that have contributed to the success of the United States. An understanding of history lends great insight to the function of, and motives behind the legal system. In addition, a careful study of history will enable the student to become effective in oral and written communication, while developing intellectual skills in critical thought and analysis, both of which are invaluable to the study of law.

The Department participates in the programs in Women’s Studies, American Studies, African-American Studies, Asian Studies, and Latin American, Caribbean and Latino Studies.

Program Academic Learning Compacts (student learning outcomes) for undergraduate programs in the College of Arts and Humanities are located at: http://www.oeas.ucf.edu/alc/alc_students_cahum.htm