As a history major, students will be able to pursue studies in United States, European, Russian, Latin American, African, and Asian history. They will gain an understanding of the major themes of history and explore the methods of historical study. They can concentrate on topics of their choosing, and select courses that reflect faculty's interest in areas as diverse as maritime history, the Middle East, military history, race relations, and terrorism.

The analytical and communications skills students will develop as a history major can prepare them for a career in civil service, education, foreign service and intelligence, journalism, law, museum work, politics and advocacy, public policy, or public relations. A degree in history can also lead to graduate work in a variety of fields and serve as a sound foundation for law school.

University of Massachusetts Dartmouth offers teacher preparation for students who are interested in teaching history at the middle or high school level. They will take graduate-level courses during their final year of course work. These courses help prepare them to take and pass the MTELs and begin teaching after earning their bachelor's degree. After graduation, they can continue their work toward earning their master's degree in teaching by taking 5 more courses.