Pikeville College - Academic Affairs - Social Science

History/Political Science

Majoring in history/political science is a more practical choice than students may think. That is because the multidisciplinary nature of the major allows students to take the long view and examine the causes, results, and chronologies of events. Additionally, history/political science helps them analyze human experience from multiple perspectives. Professors teach students how to analyze written, oral, visual and material evidence and stress the development of communication skills and critical thinking. These skills are adaptable to a variety of occupations and are in demand in today’s world. Companies are eager to hire people who can communicate effectively through the written and spoken word and who are experienced at analyzing large amounts of information.

What can I do with a history/political science degree from Pikeville College?

A history/political science background provides an excellent foundation for those who seek careers in government, law, journalism, and other occupations. The versatility and success of Pikeville College history/political science majors are evident in the wide variety of occupations they pursue after graduating. With further specialization, some go into teaching at the college level. A large number of graduates become lawyers, one of the more traditional careers sought by history/political science majors, since a good lawyer not only has to know the law but understand where it originated and how it was developed. History/political science backgrounds are often viewed as particularly helpful to those seeking legal careers or with political aspirations. There are many occupations that do not require a specific undergraduate major; they are often learned as a result of on-the-job training rather than prior education. What is sought among prospective employees is the development of certain skills and abilities that can be developed not only through an academic major but through courses taken as part of one’s general education, and through internships, directed studies, tutorials, seminars, summer employment, and volunteer experiences. Graduates with a history/political science degree from Pikeville College can choose to pursue a variety of careers including:

• Archivist
• Arts Conservator
• Author
• Consultant
• Editor
• Journalist
• Library Director
• Legislator
• Lawyer
• Librarian
• Museum Director
• Paralegal
• Public Analyst
• Public Relations Specialist

History/Political Science at Pikeville College

The history/political science major is offered through the Division of Social Science. This program focuses on the processes of institutional change within societies. Recognizing that human experience is continuous, history seeks to understand how people lived in the past and how their institutions shaped their world and our own. Political science further addresses these issues, with particular emphasis on the political process and its consequences.

Degree Options

• B.S. or B.A.
• Major

Key Points

History/political science backgrounds are often viewed as particularly helpful to those seeking legal careers. Small classes ensure that students receive the personal attention that they need to succeed in graduate programs.