Mission Statement

The primary mission of the department is to educate students for effective leadership and membership in a global political, social, and economic community by providing an historical understanding of the major world cultures. In courses that range from ancient to modern times, from the Far East to New York City, and with techniques drawn from the humanities and the social sciences, students in business, administration, and the arts and sciences, are introduced to the history of the modern world.

The department is particularly dedicated to teaching how human societies change over time: in daily lives; through commerce; in response to crisis; and in interaction with other cultures. In addition, history courses strive to put the present into context, to cultivate students’ intellectual curiosity, and to elevate aspirations. The faculty takes seriously its responsibility to teach critical thinking and communication skills at the same time as imparting knowledge necessary for students’ personal and professional development.