4+1 Degree in History
Combined Bachelor's and Master's Degree
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History 4+1 Degree Program Overview
Purdue University Northwest’s 4+1 history degree program allows you to earn both a Bachelor and a Master of Arts in History in just five years. This accelerated pathway provides a seamless transition from undergraduate to graduate study, helping you build advanced skills and enter the workforce or doctoral programs faster.
You’ll develop strong critical thinking, research, writing and analytical skills while gaining a deep understanding of how historical perspectives shape today’s world.
Department of History, Philosophy, Politics and Economics
PNW’s history program combines engaging classroom experiences with projects that expand critical thinking, communication and analytical skills. Faculty create dynamic courses that bring history to life while helping you apply your knowledge to real-world issues.
With access to internships, research opportunities and partnerships with local museums and historical organizations, you’ll build professional networks and practical experience throughout both degrees.
History 4+1 Degree Program Overview Curriculum
This combined program allows you to begin graduate coursework during your senior year and apply those credits toward both degrees, reducing the total time to completion.
PNW’s program meets national standards outlined by the American Historical Association. Special features of the program are its research seminar and internship opportunities. You’ll get the chance to research, write and present your work to a university committee, as well as work in local museums and historical societies.
Begin your history degree with general education core courses along with introductory and survey history classes.
History 4+1 Degree Program Course of Study
Sample Courses
- HIST 10500 – Survey Of Global History
- HIST 10600 – Introduction To History And Social Studies
Progress in your history studies by learning research methods, writing skills and historiography.
Sample Courses
- HIST 29500 – Research And Writing In History
Deepen your knowledge of history with topical classes in American, European and world history.
History 4+1 Degree Program Course of Study
Sample Courses
- 30000-level or above US History course – select from the History Electives List
- 30000-level or above non-US History course – select from the History Electives List
- Social Ethics – select from the CHESS College Core List
Continue advanced undergraduate coursework while beginning your graduate studies.
History 4+1 Degree Program Course of Study
Sample Courses
- HIST 49500 – Research Seminar In Historical Topics
Finish your graduate studies while preparing for your future career or doctoral studies.
- HIST 69800 – Research MA Thesis
History 4+1 Degree Program Highlights
As a History major, you’ll engage with nationally and internationally recognized faculty who create dynamic classroom experiences. You’ll gain practical experience with internship and networking opportunities in museums across Northwest Indiana and Michigan.
History 4+1 Degree Program Outcomes
In our program, you’ll learn how to think like a historian:
- Develop advanced analytical and interpretive skills by examining historical sources
- Expand your writing and verbal communication skills
- Advance your abilities to research questions and find answers
- Contextualize and understand complex historical events and their connections to today
History 4+1 Degree Program Career Paths
A history master’s degree prepares you for further graduate study and for many different careers, including:
- History teacher
- Law, public policy and government service professions
- Archivist, curator or librarian
History 4+1 Degree Program Beyond the Classroom
Our students have many opportunities to learn outside the classroom. Eligible students can join Phi Alpha Theta, a national History Honor Society. Many of our students have also held internships at companies such as:
- WFMT Studs Terkel Radio Archive
- Indiana Dunes Tourism
- La Porte County Historical Museum
History 4+1 Degree Program Employers
Graduates of this program are employed in organizations and companies like:
- Illinois Labor History Society
- Northwestern University
- Bishop Noll High School, East Chicago
- Ivy Tech Community College
History 4+1 Degree Program Scholarships
In addition to the scholarships available to all PNW applicants, students seeking a history degree may also apply for program-specific scholarship awards, such as:
- Richard Van Orman History Scholarship ($500)
I fell in love with the people in the department and the subject in general. PNW has become a second home for me.
PNW provides a great learning environment for its students and resources for their success.
My history professors help me Power Onward. They all look out for their students and make sure they give their students the best they can offer.
Meet the Faculty
Associate Professor of History
I am currently the Advisor for the Masters Program. Some of my roles include course redesign projects for the Freshman Year Experience and Gateway History courses.
Professor of History
Michael J. Connolly is professor of history in the department of history and philosophy. His teaching and research involve the politics and political economy of nineteenth century America.
Professor of History
Kathleen Tobin is a Professor of History and former Chair of the Department of History, Philosophy, Politics, and Economics. She has also directed the International Affairs Office and served on the Indiana Commission for Higher Education.
Earn a Bachelor's and Master's Degree in History at PNW
Purdue University Northwest’s History 4+1 degree program allows you to become a leader in just five years.
Our graduate studies staff is ready to help you take the next step! Contact us at (219) 989-2257 or grad@pnw.edu to see how PNW can meet your needs.
