Students in USAO’s history department study everything from the earliest records of human civilization to contentious contemporary issues and use the perspective gained from studying the past to better understand both the important differences between and the striking similarities to the problems we face today.
Cicero defined the liberal arts as “those studies worthy of a free person,” and at USAO, we believe that any such education requires a thorough knowledge of the what has come before us.
A deeply interdisciplinary degree that teaches students outstanding writing, research, and analytical skills, our history majors often pursue careers in business, government, or teaching, and many continue their education in graduate, law, and other professional schools.
Why Major in History at USAO?
- Learn from diverse and dynamic instructors who inspire you to succeed.
- Gain important insight into the forces that have shaped human history.
- Examine the reasons why societies have developed and collapsed.
- Analyze primary sources with a critical eye.
- Conduct in-depth research on a wide variety of historical subjects.
- Learn skills necessary for success in any number of post-graduate programs.
- Pursue original research with opportunities to present and publish.
- Small classes: expect an atmosphere where your professors know your name.
- Interdisciplinary core courses provide students with the skills needed for the job market.
Career Possibilities
- Historian
- Museum Director
- Public Policy Analyst
- Civil Service
- Lawyer
- Archivist
- Librarian
- Archaeologist
- Linguist
Teacher Certification in Social Studies
USAO’s teacher certification program in social studies qualifies individuals to teach the subject to students from 6th through 12th grades. The coursework combines courses in history, political science, geography, and sociology with the professional education core required in all of our teacher preparation programs.
This specialization examines the growth of political organizations, the development of social institutions, and the course of intellectual movements throughout human history.
The teacher certification program provides students with superior instruction in social studies disciplines while also giving them a solid foundation in how to pass on this knowledge in an elementary and secondary school setting.
All requirements for teacher certification programs are subject to change if new requirements are established by the Oklahoma State Board of Education, the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education or the Office of Educational Quality and Accountability (OEQA).
Why Pursue a Teacher Certification in Social Studies at USAO?
- Highly-qualified faculty.
- Broadly based interdisciplinary curriculum prepares effective educators.
- Real-world experience working with children.
- Get real-world education experience through student-teaching courses.
- Develop exceptional skills in research and analysis.
- Pursue original research with opportunities to present and publish.
Degree Checksheet
History with Social Studies Teacher Certification Degree Checksheet