Study the Past. Change the Future.
There’s so much you can do with a history and political science degree, from impacting law and politics to curating a museum. As you study the past, you’ll be better prepared to change the future—holding a greater understanding of the perspectives in place throughout societies and cultures in different times and places. You’ll be encouraged to explore basic values and worldviews of your own, as well as other cultural traditions, then learn how to articulate your personal values, faith, and worldview.
At Huntington University, our Christian liberal arts setting puts us in a unique place to explore every aspect of history and political science. Get ready to grow in:
- assessing historical perspectives
- articulating your personal values
- understanding contemporary issues
- connecting events and experiences
- engaging with the world around you
- discerning what you learn
History & Political Science Majors & Minors
“Advanced thinking in the fields of history, political science, and international & development studies favors the long game, and there are intellectual and spiritual benefits for those who are willing to work at it through reading and reflection.”
“I had so many beautiful opportunities, from internships to leadership positions to independent studies, that truly helped shape the person I am today. I got to try new things and have opportunities I never could have imagined.”
“Teaching history was a simple choice because the professors were so personable and friendly and obviously cared for the students; to add to that, history classes prepared students to read and think critically — a skilled value in any profession.”
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Stay tuned to what's happening in HU's History & Political Science Department!
To truly breathe life into history and political science, you need to experience what you are studying in an up-close and personal way. That’s why practical learning is built into our curriculum.
Practical learning is built into our curriculum, and engaging laboratories are the standard. With amazing facilities, including the recent addition of the History Laboratory, students have a dedicated space to meet, study, and enjoy a trove of donated history literature. You will be able to gain a sense of confidence and comfort with research in this space.
As a result of our University’s size and dedication to excellence, you may have the opportunity to collaborate with faculty on engaging research studies. In the last five years, nine students have assisted as contributors or editors. Additionally, our faculty have published over 40 books, articles, and more in the last 15 years as active contributors to the community.
Internships and study abroad opportunities are widely available for HU students. You may complete local or national internships with judges, legislatures, political campaigns, and more. Study abroad opportunities are also available in Washington, D.C., Costa Rica, England, China, Russia, or Egypt. You may also attend the Conference on Faith & History with other HU students and faculty.
Regardless of your concentrated field of study, the department has plenty of extra-curricular organizations that support your learning and career goals. From the HU Development & Sustainability blog to learn more about international & development studies, to Eunomia, HU’s student pre-law organization.
The S. G. Whittle Johnston Memorial Award in History
The S.G. Whittle Johnston Memorial Award in History has been an annual academic award since 2003. It was established by a 1989 Huntington University history alumna to honor the memory of Dr. S.G. Whittle Johnston, professor of international relations at the University of Virginia and the donor's mentor, graduate advisor, and personal friend. By funding this award, the donor wishes to encourage upper-level history students in their study of history. The award is given to the junior or senior history major who submits the most outstanding work of original scholarship as decided by department faculty. The winner receives a plaque and a significant cash award.
The Ron Frank Memorial Endowment in History
The Frank Fund was established in 1973 to honor the memory of Ron Frank, an HU history major who passed away during the spring semester of his senior year. Donors desire to provide financial assistance to history majors while also memorializing Ron Frank. The endowment funds three awards:
- The Ron Frank History Travel Award provides up to $500 per student for costs associated with attendance and participation at scholarly meetings. Students who are interested in attending a scholarly conference or convention are invited to apply for these awards in advance of the event.
- The Jack P. Barlow, Sr., History Book Prize provides $200 worth of books to the outstanding student(s) in the department's senior seminar classes.
- The Ron Frank Memorial Award for Outstanding Scholarship in History is awarded to graduating history majors who graduate summa cum laude (cumulative GPA of 3.85 or higher). The honor consists of a plaque and a cash award.
Formed in 2009, the Centre for Non-Western Studies aims to increase student knowledge and understanding of the world outside of the United States. The Centre combines, but is not limited to, the fields of Bible and religion, business, English, history and political science, ministry and missions, TESOL, social work, and sociology.
Brautigam Scholarship
To honor Dr. Brautigam for his commitment to academic excellence at the university, and for his impact on generations of HU alumni, the Brautigam Scholarship has been founded. If you are interested in helping to establish this scholarship to impact history majors for years to come, please consider making a contribution.
Why Choose HU?
Cost of Attendance
Huntington University is dedicated to providing several paths for financial assistance as you invest in your education and future. Each student’s financial aid package is unique and complements our competitive tuition. Online tools are available to help you calculate your investment.
Christ-Centered Focus
In addition to providing you with a nationally-recognized education, we aim to help you experience the cross-section between faith and education. Discover who God wants you to be alongside a close-knit, Christ-centered community. When you’re at HU, you’re home.
I'm Ready!
Take the next step towards your history & political science degree!