Mission
As an integral part of a liberal arts education, history courses introduce students to different historical eras, diverse cultures, famous and ordinary women and men, and a variety of geographical settings. Our courses challenge students to think critically, express themselves clearly, and become informed and responsible citizens in an increasingly interconnected world. Students majoring or minoring in history may become teachers or seek employment in business or government. History is an excellent background for those who wish later to go to law school or enter journalism.
Academic Programs
Bachelor's
History (BA)
Bachelor of Arts in History
Program Modality: Campus
History is a multifaceted field, rich in knowledge of the past that helps society shape the present and future. The Bachelor’s degree in History introduces students to the past through different historical eras, diverse cultures, famous and ordinary women and men, and a variety of geographical settings.
The program challenges students to think critically, express themselves clearly, and become informed and responsible citizens in an increasingly interconnected world. Coursework includes topics in U.S. History, European History, Latin American, and World History.
History - Teacher Certification (BA)
Bachelor of Arts in History - Teacher Certification
Program Modality: Campus
The Bachelor’s degree in History with Teacher Certification provides the knowledge and skills needed to become a certified history teacher for grades 7-12 in Texas. Students complete introductory courses in United States history, world history, and Texas history. Students also complete advanced coursework in a wide range of topics and elective courses. Education courses prepare students to enter the high school classroom.
UTRGV is approved by the State Board of Educator Certification to recommend students who complete all requirements for this degree for teacher certification.
Social Studies Composite (BA)
Bachelor of Arts in Social Studies Composite
Program Modality: Campus
The Bachelor’s degree in Social Studies Composite offers students a robust foundation in the experiences and perspectives of past cultures and generations while analyzing the forces that shape lives, endeavors, and institutions.
The program introduces students to a variety of courses in World History, U.S. History, Latin America History, and European History. Emphasis is placed on understanding the cultural, social, religious, and political movements during various historical periods and the major advancements that shaped human history.
Social Studies Composite - Teacher Certification (BA)
Bachelor of Arts in Social Studies Composite - Teacher Certification
Program Modality: Campus
The Bachelor’s degree in Social Studies Composite with Teacher Certification is an interdisciplinary degree covering history, economics, geography, political science, and behavioral sciences. In addition to acquiring knowledge in history, economics, and politics, students complete a series of education courses designed to prepare them to seek certification as secondary teachers with a Social Studies Composite certification. The Education courses provide hands-on experience in public school classrooms and culminate in a semester-long clinical teaching experience.
UTRGV is approved by the State Board of Educator Certification to recommend students who complete all requirements for this degree for teacher certification.
Master's
History (MA)
Master of Arts in History
Program Modality: Campus
The Master’s degree in History is designed for students looking to expand their knowledge in the field. The program further develops analyzing, research, critical thinking, leadership, and communication skills. Students learn about the past through different historical eras, diverse cultures, famous and ordinary men and women, and a variety of geographical settings.
The program challenges students to think critically, express themselves clearly, and become informed and responsible citizens in an increasingly interconnected world. Coursework includes topics in U.S. History, Europe History, Latin American, and World History.
History - Interdisciplinary Studies (MAIS)
Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies with a Concentration in History
Program Modality: Campus
The Master’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a Concentration in History is an advanced history program designed for students looking to continue growing their knowledge in the field. The program deepens knowledge and helps develop analyzing, research, critical thinking, leadership, and communication skills. Students learn about the past through different historical eras, diverse cultures, famous and ordinary men and women, and a variety of geographical settings. The program can be tailored to the students' goals and interests. The program challenges students to think critically, express themselves clearly, and become informed and responsible citizens in an increasingly interconnected world.