Explore the past to understand the present, while building skills that lead to your successful future.
Take a proven path to careers in law, government, journalism, business, education and many other fields. Major in history at Adelphi University.
As a history student at Adelphi, you’ll work closely with your professors in small classes devoted to United States, European, and global history. You’ll enjoy outstanding research opportunities. You’ll expand your awareness, gain new perspectives, and enhance your critical and moral judgments. And you’ll develop analytical, research and writing skills that will last a lifetime.
The history program transported me to past eras all over the world and taught me how it impacts the world I’m living in today. The professors were super dedicated!
Grace Wayar ’25
history major in Adelphi’s five-year Scholar Teacher Education Program (STEP)
Faculty and Student Research
Critical thinking and real-world engagement are at the heart of your history education at Adelphi. Our history faculty are experienced researchers with scholarly interests spanning Medieval Europe, 19th-century spiritualism and spirituality, 20th-century France and Japan, cultural production in Latin America, and the history of photography. They guide students in exploring the past, analyzing primary sources, and understanding how historical events shape society, law, and culture, while encouraging original inquiry, debate, and hands-on research.
Students in our history program have numerous opportunities to conduct original research and present their findings on campus and at regional and national conferences. You can:
- Access the Adelphi University Archives and Special Collections for enriched research opportunities
- Take advantage of research opportunities and summer research fellowships offered by Adelphi’s SPARK Center (Scholars Pursuing Arts, Research, and Knowledge)
- Present at Adelphi’s annual Scholarship and Creative Works Conference
- Participate in public history projects or conferences, and engage with museums, archives, and historical organizations—helping you build your professional network and practical experience.
- Explore national and international fieldwork opportunities for hands-on learning experiences
Uncovering History in Adelphi’s Backyard
Undergraduate history major and research fellow Thea Crouch spent her summer uncovering the history of a Garden City, NY, landmark and its relationship to Adelphi.
Student Life and Hands-On Learning
Bring the stories of the past to life while developing the skills to make an impact.
Internship Opportunities
Adelphi works with a variety of organizations, both on and off campus, to provide history majors with hands-on learning experiences. Our students have completed internships at organizations such as the Cradle of Aviation Museum, the Museum of Jewish Heritage, the Walt Whitman Birthplace State Historic Site, and Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park.
Study Abroad: History Beyond the Classroom
Study abroad to explore historical sites, access international archives, and experience the cultures behind the events they study—gaining research skills and a global perspective.
Student Clubs and Organizations
Get involved, build connections, and deepen your understanding of the past through the History Club and Phi Alpha Theta honor society. Collaborate with fellow students, attend hands-on workshops and discussions, participate in community projects and historical outreach, and explore career opportunities in history, research and related fields.
Considering Law School?
History majors develop many of the skills law schools value most, including critical thinking, analytical reading and writing, and the ability to understand complex legal, political, and social contexts. Through close analysis of historical texts and ideas, students learn how laws, rights, and institutions evolve over time.
Our history degree program emphasizes strong research and writing skills, along with individualized faculty mentoring, to help students prepare for law school and other graduate studies.
High School Programs
High school students with an interest in history, government, or law can take part in college-level study at Adelphi that explores how important legal and historical ideas shape our world. Through interactive courses, students build critical thinking and analytical skills while learning from university faculty and completing real academic work. Some options also let students earn college credit.
