History, BA

The baccalaureate curriculum is organized for students who hope to place their world in historical perspective. Education in history at the University of Illinois Springfield is broad-based humanities training, providing students with research capabilities, analytical methods and communication skills that are useful in many fields. The curriculum prepares students for careers in fields such as history, politics, government, business, law, journalism, writing and administration. Through internships, students are able to test career possibilities where the research and analytical skills of the historian are appropriate.

Learning Outcomes

Read critically; that is, they will be able to identify a thesis, evidence, interpretation and the different voices in a text.
Define and distinguish between primary and secondary sources and explain the strengths, weaknesses and appropriate uses of each.
Interpret and analyze primary documents and place them within the appropriate historical context.
Identify characteristics and practitioners of major schools of historiographical thought.
Craft a narrative based on primary sources.
Locate different kinds of sources for historical research.
Appropriately document and cite sources in academic work.
Explain roles that history and historians play in contemporary society as well as current issues under debate within the profession and within the public arena.
Explain the purpose and use of historiographical essays. (limited to HIS 401)
Compose an historiographical essay. (limited to HIS 401)

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Apply by Date:
May 15, 2025

Start Date:
August 22, 2025

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Tuition & Aid

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Value of a UIS Degree

UIS is No. 5 for students graduating with the least amount of debt, Midwest Region (2021).

Top 25 best value school, Midwest Region, and the only public university in Illinois on the list (2022, 2023, 2024).

98% of students receive aid

The average graduate from UIS will see an increase in earnings of $31,700 - $69,000 each year compared to someone with a high school diploma working in Illinois.

< High School

$26,800

High School

$36,600

Bachelor's

$68,300

Master's

$87,200

Doctorate

$105,600

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Review admission requirements

No specific admission requirements are listed at this time. Please contact the Office of Admission for more information.

International students, will you need an F-1 student visa to study on campus at UIS? Please review the International Applicants site for additional information.

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An email address is required to create an account. To submit a paper application, visit the Resources & Forms page. Find more information about what type of student you are on the Student Types page. Applying for an online program is the same procedure as applying for an on-campus program.

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You can submit your non-refundable application fee online, after completing the online application. Alternately, it can also be mailed to the university, payable to University of Illinois Springfield.

Domestic students: Undergraduate - $50, Graduate - $60;

International students: Undergraduate - $60, Graduate - $75.

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Courses & Catalog Information

At the University of Illinois Springfield, you'll find a wide range of courses tailored to your interests and career goals. Explore your program details and get all the essential information you need to plan your future.

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Career Opportunities

Exploring the following career paths can help you see how your degree opens up a wide range of exciting and rewarding opportunities in various fields.