History Major (BA)

At George Fox, the study of history involves so much more than simply learning about the past. We are dedicated to helping our majors become thoughtful, mature Christian thinkers who can contribute to their world in a variety of professions. As we see it, the study of history reveals the complexity of human affairs and Christ’s redemptive work.

A 42-credit-hour program, the history major only requires three courses, leaving room for plenty of elective classes. This allows you to customize your degree and focus on the areas of the discipline that appeal most to you. It also means you may add a second major or minor in a different field, giving you a well-rounded, eclectic college experience!

Concentration

Politics

Understanding political context, ideologies and action as drivers throughout time is essential for truly understanding the history of our nation and world, from ancient times through today and into the future. In our politics concentration, you will dive deep into topics that include American institutions, law, international relations, comparative government, peace studies, political theory and public policy.

Watch video: Meet the Major: History & Politics

Why Study History at George Fox?

students sitting on a blanket studying on the quad

What Will I Study?

In our department, you can go all over the world in your studies, getting a bird’s-eye-view of the world throughout time. Other topics of study include:

  • The basic skills, methods and resources for how to become a historical scholar
  • The study of Christianity throughout history, including its historical context and its relationship to the surrounding cultures
  • Supervised experiences in museums, historical societies, and government agencies
  • Individualized study or supervised research in an area of special interest to the student which is outside the regular offerings of the major
  • Directed research on peace subjects, both current and historical
Emma Reid

Emma Reid

I found mentors and role models in my history professors, and I was stretched and challenged academically. Even as I worked on intimidating research projects, I couldn’t help but feel thrilled because I really love what I was studying. George Fox gave me a very holistic experience. My mind, heart and spirit all grew.

What’s after George Fox

Our history graduates work in a wide range of jobs. Typically, they find positions in fields that depend upon their training in data analysis and interpretation, organization of ideas, logical thinking, problem solving, and compelling verbal and written communication. Whether you wish to teach, go into law, or find work in the business world, a history major will get you off to a strong start.

  • Education Program Assistant, Fosterfields Living Historical Farm
  • Historical Interpreter, Andersonville National Historic Site
  • Country Director at Large, Mercy Corps
  • Child Sponsorship Director, AOET-USA
  • Faculty Librarian, Seattle Pacific University
  • Professor of History, George Fox University
  • Research Assistant, Center for African Studies at University of Basel
  • Missionary in Papua New Guinea, Wycliffe Bible Translators
  • Attorney at Law, Gaukroger Law PC
  • CEO, Tenacity Health
  • CFO/VP, Tektronix
  • Global Account Executive, InterCall
  • Strategy & Business Operations Manager, Nike
  • Public History Internship, Evergreen Aviation Museum
  • Independent Summer Research Projects, funded by the Richter Program
  • Teaching and Research Assistantships with faculty members
  • Study Abroad, Oxford University
  • Public History Internship, High Desert Museum
  • Public History Internship, Oregon Trail Museum
  • Cambridge University
  • Georgetown University Law Center
  • Georgia State University
  • Harvard Divinity School
  • Indiana University
  • Lewis and Clark Law School
  • London School of Economics
  • Purdue University
  • University of Leicester (UK)
  • University of Manchester (UK)
  • University of Notre Dame
  • University of Oregon
  • University of Southern California
  • University of Sheffield (UK)
  • University of St. Andrews (UK)
  • University of Virginia
  • University of Washington
  • Willamette University
Stephanie Steinhorst

Steinhorst Honored for Work at Historic Site

As the nation marks the 150th anniversary of the American Civil War, a George Fox University history graduate is helping plan events at one of the war’s most somber sites.

“This is an amazing opportunity – some of it is heartbreaking – but it is very fulfilling,” says Stephanie Steinhorst (G05). “I’m in a perfect position.”

Daily, Steinhorst walks the grounds of the Camp Sumter Prison, now more commonly called Andersonville Prison, where nearly 13,000 Union soldiers died. She’s in her third year with the National Park Service at the Andersonville National Historic Site in Georgia, working in the Interpretation and Education Division.