History

History: Major

The study of history at Holy Cross not only seeks to understand the past; it also offers deep personal enrichment for a thoughtful, even passionate, engagement in the challenges of the present. Among the most encompassing academic disciplines, history is informed by economics, sociology, anthropology, political science, the arts and literature.

Working with innovative faculty experts, students explore a diverse range of interests and a broad selection of topics from “Traditional” East Asia to Modern Latin America, Gilded Age America to Imperial Russia. Students learn how politics, social and economic developments, and cultural life interact.

Students of all interests, passions, and goals study history at Holy Cross. Graduates use their training to pursue careers in law, medicine, government service, business, teaching and a host of other vocations. 

Program Highlights

Students enrolled in history at Holy Cross explore their major and gain depth in a particular aspect of history through a global concentration. Spanning geographic locations and time, students select from the following themes:

  • Colonialism and Empire
  • Gender in Public and Private Life
  • Race and Ethnicity
  • Resistance, Revolution, and Reaction
  • Knowledge and Belief
  • War and Memory
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Faculty

With 18 full-time professors, the department is one of the largest history departments among liberal arts colleges.

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Opportunities

Students can augment their studies through honors programs and hands-on experiences.

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After Graduation

Find out what students can do with a history major, and check out the careers of some recent alumni.

History News

Carolyn Dunderdale '22 on Fenwick Porch
Blog: First-Year Student Explores Love of Art and History on Maymester to Rome
Name: Carolyn Dunderdale ’22 Hometown: Marshfield, Massachusetts Potential areas of study: Biology and the Health Professions Advising Program Maymester program: “Rome in History and Imagination” in Rome, Italy. Students in this program will explore ancient Roman history, art and archaeology to gain a …
A Nativity School of Worcester student raises his hand in class
Holy Cross Students Turn Project Ideas Into Reality Through Ignite Fund
Rev. Thomas McMurray, S.J., wears many hats at Nativity School of Worcester — director of admissions, director of Jesuit mission and identity, and chaplain. When he needed help developing a religious education curriculum for the school, he knew where to …
Edward O'Donnell, associate professor of history
Would a ‘Single Tax’ Fix Income Inequality? Holy Cross History Professor Opines
The late 19th century “single tax” vision of political economist Henry George, who proposed the exclusive use of a land-value tax, is seen by some economics as a way to combat increasing wealth disparities today. Ed O’Donnell, associate professor of …