St. Ambrose University's Bachelor of Arts in History offers an in-depth exploration of human society's evolution from political, social, economic, and cultural viewpoints. Develop critical skills to analyze evidence, navigate diverse interpretations, and draw informed conclusions about our dynamic world. Ideal for aspiring professionals in law, business, education, and policy-making, our history program provides a comprehensive understanding of past events and their impact on contemporary issues.
What is a History degree?
Reduce tuition by up to $24k
Why earn a BA in History?
In our program, you'll hone your research skills, bolster your reading comprehension, and refine your oral and written communication. Benefit from an innovative learning environment where faculty prioritize your success.
Cutting-edge technology
Our courses incorporate role-playing games and virtual reality to better engage students in the learning process.
Faculty connections
Hosted alumni nights to connect current and former students giving you access to networking opportunities and career advice.
Pairs well with other majors
You can easily double major in complementary subjects such as Political Science and Pre-Law.
Expansive career options
Research and writing skills are vital for careers in business, teaching, politics, law, journalism, information science, and public administration.
History Teacher Education program
Our History Teacher Education program is available for students interested in teaching history at the secondary level.
What you’ll learn in your History Program
Our program teaches fundamental skills in research methods, reading, writing, and communication. You’ll find success in our creative approach to learning by immersing yourself in virtual reality and role-play to delve into specific time periods and places. You’ll cap off your History degree by writing an original historical essay on the topic of your choice. Our program fosters skilled, versatile, and competent graduates that employers are eager to hire.
- Exploration of U.S. history from early colonization to the present
- Mastery of historical practice, including research, analysis, and writing
- Examination of world wars using a global focus
- Creation of an original historical essay
Explore History courses
- This degree will require you to complete a total of 120 credits.
- You will complete 42 gen ed credits, 38 credits in History, 40 elective credits, and 1 capstone course.
Sample courses
| Class code | Class title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| HIST 201 | United States to 1877 | 3 credits |
| HIST 202 | United States Since 1877 | 3 credits |
| HIST 205 | Introduction to Historical Methods | 3 credits |
| HIST 214 | World at War | 3 credits |
| HIST 400/410 | Capstone Research & Writing Experience | 5 credits |
How much does a degree in BA in History cost?
The cost of your degree will depend on several factors, like scholarships, housing, meal plans, and transfer credits. New students also pay a $100 matriculation fee. You will also need to budget for books, supplies, materials, transportation, personal costs, loan fees, and other expenses. Explore the cost of attendance.
Full-time student living on campus
| Expense | By semester | By year |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time tuition (12-18 credits)* | $18,917 | $37,833 |
| Housing** | $4,140 | $8,280 |
| Food*** | $2,750 | $5,500 |
| Technology fee | $140 | $280 |
| Total direct charges (billable) | $25,947 | $51,893 |
*Based on 2025-2026 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer.
**This cost is estimated, actual housing cost will vary by student selections.
***Cost estimate based on 3 meals per day.
How much does campus housing cost?
When it comes to housing, St. Ambrose University offers diverse options to meet the needs of our students. From traditional dormitories to apartment-style living, there’s something for everyone. The cost of our housing will vary based on where you decide to live and the meal plan you choose.
St. Ambrose University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Accreditation and recognitions provide the assurance we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.
How does SAU support History students?
St. Ambrose University’s History faculty are dedicated to student success. In their small classes, they’ll get to know you by name. You’ll be matched with a faculty advisor equipped to help you discover your career path. They’ll connect you with alumni in your field and guide you towards internships, fieldwork, and study abroad experiences that will make you stand out to future employers.
History faculty
Other support resources
Student Success Center
At St. Ambrose, we want you to thrive. Access free tutoring, study groups, and supplemental instruction through our Student Success Center.
Accessibility Resource Center
Whether you need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements, or disability support strategies, our Accessibility Resource Center is here to help.
Career services
Our Academic and Career Planning Center is ready to help you polish your resume and land the job or internship that will launch your career.
Are there scholarships available for BA in History?
At St. Ambrose University, we believe that education should be accessible to all. That's why we offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help make college more affordable for our students. We are committed to providing our students with the resources they need to succeed academically and financially.
Ambrose Advantage Scholarship
Through the Ambrose Advantage Scholarship program, a tuition-free St. Ambrose University education is available to any Pell Grant-eligible Iowans. Learn more about the Ambrose Advantage.
Merit-Based and Institutional Scholarships
St. Ambrose offers excellent scholarships and grants based on your strong academic performance, your talent in fine arts or athletics, or your community involvement. Explore SAU scholarships.
Transfer credits
At SAU, you may be able to transfer previous college credit toward your bachelor’s degree, saving you significant time and money. Learn how to transfer credits.
Focus on your career. Not debt.
"Cost is obviously a big thing for anybody going to college. When I found out about the Ambrose Advantage, it took the stress off me and my family. Now I can focus on my classes and getting a start on my career."
-Bailey Hird, Fairfield, Iowa
What’s on campus for History students?
Develop leadership skills and explore historical topics with other history buffs by joining SAU’s History Club. Participate in annual events like a historically themed Halloween Escape Room, enjoy trips to museums, archives, or historical sites, and discuss video games and films with historical themes.
Community and belonging at SAU
"Although there are so many things that stand out to me about my time at Ambrose, one thing that stands out the most is how much Ambrose really felt like home to me. In part, I think I felt that sense of belonging because so many groups across campus are deliberate about fostering a sense of community. During my time at Ambrose, I was involved in all of the SAU bands, Campus Ministry, and Model United Nations, and in each of these groups, they fostered communities that made me feel like I had found family away from home.”
-Rachel Wiedman ’21, BA in History, Philosophy, and Psychology
What are the general admission requirements for a BA in History?
Here are the admissions requirements for our History program.
- You must have graduated from an accredited high school or earned a GED
- You must have a minimum cumulative, unweighted GPA of 2.5
- You must provide an official high school transcript
International student requirements
If you live outside of the U.S., there are different admissions requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Official transcripts from secondary education
- A minimum 2.5 CGPA out of a 4.0 scale, or equivalent
- Proof of English language proficiency (minimum scores: TOEFL - 79, IELTS - 6.0)
- Copy of your passport and other documentation
What can I do with a History degree?
Your education and degree can help you reach your professional goals. St. Ambrose University can never promise a career or particular outcome upon graduating. We encourage you to explore potential jobs and employment settings. Here is a list of potential job titles, traits, and settings a graduate in our History program could achieve.
Potential job titles
- Historian
- Researcher
- Archivist
- Museum curator
- Writer/Author
- Policy analyst
Potential employment settings
- Museums
- Libraries
- Local government
- State government
- Federal government
- Educational institutions
Traits of a History graduate
- Evaluating
- Coaching
- Researching
- Communicating
- Critical Thinking
- Preservation
Industry facts
- The job market for historians is on par with other history-related jobs like archivist and history teaching with the growth consistent at 3%.
- Historians make an average of $31.03 per hour or $64,540 per year as a median pay. This position requires a master’s degree.
For more information on history employment and wages, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook.
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Become who you are meant to be
With more than 65 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.
