Overview of History at Butler
By studying the past, the discipline of history attempts to
determine what lies behind the decisions and choices that have
shaped all the cultures of the world. The History major at Butler is
relatively unstructured, i.e. it contains very few prescribed
courses. The department encourages students to explore different
disciplines in order to promote their understanding of human
values.
Students in History are encouraged to participate in the
activities of Phi Alpha
Theta, the History honorary society. In addition to organizing
various events for History students during the academic year, Phi
Alpha Theta publishes Butler's first online publication, The
Sophist (Student On-Line Partisan History).
Why Study History at Butler?
History students at Butler enjoy small classes and a close
working relationship with their professors, including the
opportunity to carry out hands-on archival research. Indianapolis
is home to a rich collection of state and regional records as well
as some of the best museums
in the country. All provide Butler History students with
opportunities to practice their skills and knowledge outside the
classroom. Other opportunities for experiential learning abound at
Butler. Many History students elect to spend one or two semesters
studying abroad in places
ranging from China to London, to Mexico, and points in
between.
History at Butler offers a broad range of study from fields
including European, East Asian, US, World History, Theories, and
Methods of Historians.
History at Butler is also distinctive because of its close
relationship with the discipline of anthropology. Housed in a
combined department, both historians and anthropologists explore
common themes through such topics as Vietnam, Revolutions, or the
Holocaust. Students in both disciplines learn something about the
other's methodologies, and now have the choice of a combined major
in History and Anthropology, in addition to an Anthropology major or
History major.
History at Butler also works closely with other fields of study.
Students in history are encouraged to explore classes in International Studies, Sociology,
Religious
Studies, and Political Science, for
example, to broaden their understanding of the human condition.
What Can I Do With A History Degree?
- International Relations
- Public Relations
- Law
- Newspaper, radio and television journalism
- Record-keeping, archival services
- Intelligence services
- Libraries
- Museums
- Market research
- Teaching
- Federal agency services
- Information and research services
- Planning commissions
- Elected to office
Visit the American
Historical Association to find out more about career
opportunities for a History major.
Still have more questions about History?
Department of History and Anthropology
4600 Sunset Avenue, JH349
Indianapolis, IN 46208
317-940-9230
317-940-9743
jhendri1@butler.edu
Click here for a listing of Butler's History
faculty.