As a history major at Corban University, you’ll learn how to study the events, people, and places of history in order to better understand the modern human condition.

You’ll learn much more than lists of names, dates, and events. You’ll learn why they matter. You’ll be challenged to analyze theories, draw reasoned conclusions, and place historical events within contexts that help bring these stories to life. You’ll not only look at the details but also at the big picture: How did we get here? What trends have played out leading up to the present, and what do they tell us about preparing for the future?

As a history major at Corban, you’ll learn from the past in order to make a difference today.

Is history the right major for you?

Yes, if:

• You’re fascinated by the past, especially the ideas, events, and people who have impacted our world.
• You are a clear communicator, both verbally and in writing.
• You’re intrigued by other cultures and different ways of viewing the world.
• You enjoy tackling complex problems from multiple angles.
• The idea of interacting with the past through diaries, private letters, or court records excites you.

Integrate your faith and calling

At Corban, your faith and calling will be closely integrated, and you’ll be challenged to approach history through the lens of principles and truths in God’s Word.

• Take Bible classes in addition to history classes
• Learn from Christian faculty
• Grow in Christian community

What does it look like to investigate and interpret the past, allow it to speak to and shape the present, and convey valuable lessons to the future, all to the glory of Christ?

Career Opportunities

History majors and minors develop well-rounded skills that can be used in a wide variety of career opportunities. While some pursue grad school and a career in a history-related field, most Corban history grads go into career fields outside of history. They pursue business or law, work for state and federal government agencies, and even enter the mission field. That’s because history, literature, philosophy, and the arts offer graduates a broad framework within which they can prepare more effectively to serve Christ and His kingdom by developing highly valued skills such as:

• Analysis
• Observation
• Critical thinking
• Communication skills
• Research skills
• Cultural awareness

Pursue careers such as…

• Historian
• Attorney
• Diplomat
• Museum Director / Curator
• Government Researcher / Archivist
• Intelligence Analyst
• Entrepreneur
• Ministry Leader

Corban history majors who apply to graduate programs are highly competitive, and many are accepted to study at respected research universities in both the United States and Great Britain.

What You’ll Learn

Take practical, relevant core courses for a broad understanding of history around the world. Then, you can choose elective courses in American and world history, based on your specific interests and career goals.

Some of the courses you may take include:

• History of Ancient Greece & Rome
• History of Judaism & Christianity
• History of Film
• History of American Foreign Relations
• History of the American West
• America Since 1945
• History of Modern Africa
• History of the Middle East
• Special topics, such as Great Women in History

Learn what courses you’ll need to complete your degree.

Unique Opportunities

Study Abroad Tours

Corban’s many study abroad and study tour options give history students the opportunity to explore and experience the places where history lived. See the Bible come to life in Israel, study in the historic colleges of Oxford, or choose among several other study abroad programs to enhance your appreciation of world history.

Honors Program

While Corban’s Honors Program is open to students of any major, history majors in particular value this opportunity to dive even deeper into classical studies, including history, literature, philosophy, and the arts.

Willamette Heritage Center

Corban’s partnership with the award-winning Willamette Heritage Center—one of Oregon’s premier museums of history—gives Corban students the opportunity to do historical research and to have articles published in the journal Willamette Valley Voices. Corban students have also contributed to the Center’s online history website.