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History

History majors acquire an in-depth knowledge of the past and learn how it has shaped the present.

A B.A. in history at Kean exposes students to diverse perspectives and enhances cultural understanding. History majors develop research, writing, and critical thinking and analytical skills that are valued in every sector of the job market.

At Kean, history majors benefit from access to Liberty Hall Museum, the Kean University Archives and Special Collections, and the wealth of history available right on campus. Alongside their professors, our students use artifacts and archives and primary source documents to recreate the past and understand major events within their historical context.

Our history graduates work in education, museums, government, business, and law.  Our alumni pursue graduate study in law schools and graduate schools around the country.

 

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Elizabeth Hyde and Jonathan Mercantini

College of Liberal Arts Dean Jonathan Mercantini and Professor Elizabeth Hyde were awarded a National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) Grant for MakeHISTORY@Kean: William Livingston’s World, a research project celebrating the life and legacy of New Jersey’s first governor.

What You Learn

You study history in different contexts to understand how the lessons of the past can inform us today. You can also choose to pursue degree tracks in education and pre-law--tracks that are designed with your career interests in mind.

  • Conduct original research in our MakeHistory@Kean history lab

  • Understand how to think critically and communicate effectively in the modern world

  • Create history using new media for websites and podcasts

  • Collaborate with classmates and faculty across disciplines on cutting-edge projects

  • Intern at area museums, archives and government offices

You can pursue your degree at Kean Ocean in Toms River. A minor in history is also available for students who want to enhance their education but plan to focus their studies in another field.

Program Information

B.A. in History

B.A. in History | Pre-Law Option

B.A. in History | Honors Option

B.A. in History | Teacher Certification Option

For additional program options

visit the Department of History webpage.

Other programs you might be interested in

The Classroom and Beyond

At Kean, we believe learning extends far beyond the walls of our classrooms and labs. In the Department of History, we encourage you to get involved in clubs and organizations, study abroad at our campus in China or elsewhere and pursue internships that will advance your career. Find out more.

Kean students gain real-world experience through internships.

Internships

At Kean, we believe in helping all of our students find internships or jobs that fulfill their career goals. Find out more.
Christopher Bellitto

Public Lectures

History faculty regularly lecture on a variety of topics at venues throughout the region and the wold. Click here to view the complete schedule of upcoming public lectures.
Liberty Hall museum

Liberty Hall Museum

Kean is home to Liberty Hall, the residence of New Jersey's first governor. History comes alive at Liberty Hall Museum where the American Revolution meets the present.
Downstairs View of Green Lane Academic Building

Kean’s History department has proven pivotal in furthering my preparedness for career success. Faculty allowed me to contribute to their projects and I was able to focus on independent research, while also collaborating with my advisors and peers.

Christian Mills '19

Student and Alumni Work

Nancy Thompson WW II letters

Nancy Thompson World War II Scrapbook Project

Kean students scanned and transcribed personal stories from World War II, told in the letters of Newark State Teachers College students who served in the war.

Kean History Students Present at Research on Former Congresswoman

Three Kean University students presented their research on former Congresswoman Florence Dwyer at the 2015 Union County Republican Convention.
The wedding of John Jay and Sarah Livingston.

Liberty Hall 360

The Liberty Hall 360 project is producing a re-enactment of the Revolutionary era wedding of Sarah Livingston to John Jay, the first chief justice of the United States, using a script written and researched by history honors students.

After Kean

Kean history graduates have gone on to successful teaching and academic careers and work in the public and private spheres. They have been accepted to the following graduate schools:

  • Rutgers Law
  • Columbia University School of International Studies
  • Johns Hopkins University
  • NYU
  • Catholic University
  • Seton Hall
Kean University Academics

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