History

History majors study the past to understand how it shapes the present.

A Bachelor of Arts degree in history at Kean gives students diverse perspectives and enhances cultural understanding. History majors develop skills in research, writing, and critical thinking that are valued in any career.

Kean history majors benefit from unique access to Liberty Hall Museum, a historic building; the Kean University Archives and Special Collections; and a wealth of historical artifacts available on campus. Students work alongside professors, using archival and primary source documents to understand major events within their historical context.

Our graduates work in education, museums, government, and business, or pursue further studies in law schools and graduate schools across the country.

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Kean History Professors Elizabeth Hyde and Jonathan Mercantini — History in action. College of Liberal Arts Dean Jonathan Mercantini and Professor Elizabeth Hyde were awarded a National Endowment for the Humanities Hispanic Serving Institution Grant for MakeHISTORY@Kean: William Livingston’s World. The project celebrates the legacy of New Jersey’s first governor.

What You Learn

Study history to understand how the lessons of the past inform us today. Choose to pursue degree tracks in education and pre-law.

Conduct original research in our MakeHistory@Kean history lab
Develop analytical, research, writing and critical thinking skills needed to communicate effectively in careers

Create websites, podcasts, printed books and other media to share history
Collaborate with classmates and faculty on cutting-edge research projects and present your work at professional conferences
Prepare to teach the next generation the value of learning the worlds of yesterday, today and tomorrow
Analyze historical forces in the world today and how making meaningful change can impact the future
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 Kean education but plan to major in another field.

Program Options:

B.A. in History

B.A. in History | Pre-Law Option

B.A. in History | Honors Option

B.A. in History | Teacher Certification Option

Curriculum Sheets and 4-Year Plans

Also available

Kean Ocean

Other programs you might be interested in

Cougars Climb Higher

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.

Internships

At Kean, we believe in helping all of our students find internships or jobs that fulfill their career goals. Career services staff provide professional services and offer job fairs and networking events year-round.

Public Lectures

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

Kean students in a gorgeous outdoor setting in Northern Ireland 2023

Study Abroad

Kean offers study abroad opportunities in many countries. Study at Wenzhou-Kean University in China for the cost of a semester at Kean USA.

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