Complete 2012-2014 Undergraduate Catalog - Virginia State ...

MAJORS:
• The regular History curriculum leads to the degree of Bachelor of Arts in History and prepares
students for graduate work and for careers as teachers, historians, archivists, and professionals in
related areas.
• The History and Social Sciences Endorsement curriculum leads to the degree of Bachelor of Arts
in History and Social Sciences with a Minor in Secondary Education. The program prepares
MINORS:
Apart from the two degree programs mentioned above, the Department also offers Minors in History and
Philosophy.
• The Minor in History provides a structured sequence of courses that gives the student a broad
exposure to the discipline of history. Students acquire a general exposure to United States and
World history, historical methodology, and courses in areas of special interest to them. Analytical
thinking and writing skills are acquired, preparing students for advanced professional studies in
history even though their undergraduate major may be in another discipline.
• The Minor in Philosophy enables students to broaden their academic and professional options.
As a structured sequence of philosophy courses, the Minor provides an opportunity for students to
develop their critical thinking, analytical abilities, and effective communication. People trained
in philosophy are very much in demand for professions such as law, journalism, publishing,
banking, civil service and many others.
In addition to these formal programs, the Department offers courses to prepare students for other career
options.
OTHER DEPARTMENTAL INFORMATION
Undergraduates in the Department are active in the Philosophy and History Clubs. Members participate
in campus-wide programs, travel to meetings and sites related to their career goals and engage in cultural
and social events. Students who meet the academic requirements become members of Phi Alpha Theta, the
National History Honor Society, which has a local Chapter at Virginia State University, the Alpha-Alpha-
Eta.
The academic progress and needs of majors are assessed by written and oral tests as well as internships or
clinical activities at various stages of their programs.
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