History

History: Major

The study of history at Holy Cross not only seeks to understand the past; it also offers deep personal enrichment for a thoughtful, even passionate, engagement in the challenges of the present. Among the most encompassing academic disciplines, history is informed by economics, sociology, anthropology, political science, the arts and literature.

Working with innovative faculty experts, students explore a diverse range of interests and a broad selection of topics from “Traditional” East Asia to Modern Latin America, Gilded Age America to Imperial Russia. Students learn how politics, social and economic developments, and cultural life interact.

Students of all interests, passions, and goals study history at Holy Cross. Graduates use their training to pursue careers in law, medicine, government service, business, teaching and a host of other vocations. 

Program Highlights

Students enrolled in history at Holy Cross explore their major and gain depth in a particular aspect of history through a global concentration. Spanning geographic locations and time, students select from the following themes:

  • Colonialism and Empire
  • Gender in Public and Private Life
  • Race and Ethnicity
  • Resistance, Revolution, and Reaction
  • Knowledge and Belief
  • War and Memory
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Faculty

With 18 full-time professors, the department is one of the largest history departments among liberal arts colleges.

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Opportunities

Students can augment their studies through honors programs and hands-on experiences.

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After Graduation

Find out what students can do with a history major, and check out the careers of some recent alumni.

History News

Owen Whaley '24
Blog: Whaley ’24 Plans to Volunteer in Worcester and Study Abroad
Name: Owen Whaley ’24 Hometown: Cary, North Carolina Studies he’s considering: Political science, history, pre-law program Activities: Alexander Hamilton Society What he’s most looking forward to: Holy Cross is an incredible community, and I am grateful to be part of …
The Spire staff
Behind-the-Scenes at The Spire: How Holy Cross’ Student Newspaper Is Keeping the Community Connected
Over the summer, Matthew Anderson ’21 was at work in his hometown of Moultonborough, New Hampshire, when his phone started buzzing nonstop. Anderson, co-editor-in-chief of Holy Cross’ student newspaper, The Spire, saw numerous messages from Spire staff members who had …
Handheld Worcester
‘Handheld Worcester’ Initiative Encourages Virtual Community Building and Civic Engagement in the City
Holy Cross is finding creative ways to help students interact with and feel like a part of the Worcester community in dispersion during the pandemic, the Worcester Telegram & Gazette reports in a recent article.  Titled “Handheld Worcester,” the initiative …