HIST majors - Departmental Honors

Dear Honors students, especially those interested in History

If you are a rising sophomore or junior and are interested in history, especially if you are already a major or double major in history, you might wish to consider applying for the  Undergraduate Honors Program in History.

The Undergraduate Honors Program in History consists of a four-course sequence and begins, for most participants, in the junior year, when the honors cohort of 10-14 students takes two seminars together.  The first course, History 395, explores a range of historical topics, methods, and traditions while focusing on the critical reading of texts, on writing skills, and on a series of “big” interpretive questions (about sources, categories of analysis, and the like).  In the spring, History 396 explores one topic—the subjects change each year—in greater detail and from multiple perspectives while preparing students to work with primary sources and to generate their own research ideas.  During the senior year, students enroll in History 398 each semester and write a substantial work of original research (an honors thesis), designed and prepared in consultation with the honors director and a faculty advisor specializing in your area of interest.  During both semesters, the cohort meets on occasion to discuss their projects and the thesis-writing process.  (Note that for most students, the four-course sequence is in lieu of—not in addition to—regular history requirements.  Also, some students begin the program as sophomores, to accommodate a semester or year of studying abroad).  

This is a demanding program that offers participants a great deal in return for their effort and commitment. Students benefit from taking small seminars with a group of very engaged majors.  These are challenging courses—modeled on graduate-level seminars—in which participants actively engage scholarship, sources, fellow students, and professors.  The seminars also provide extensive time with faculty members focused on honing critical reading skills and expository writing.  During the senior year, students delve deeply into a topic of their choice, mine the historical record (including local archival collections, when appropriate), and continue to work closely with faculty advisors.  Upon completion of the departmental requirements and submission of the thesis, students are awarded honors at graduation.      

Participation in the department’s nationally-recognized honors program provides a unique and rigorous experience for students interested in history as well as vital preparation for those considering graduate studies in the humanities, social sciences, law, or journalism.  Graduates of Maryland’s program have consistently placed in the nation’s most competitive graduate programs. 

If you have excelled in your history coursework and are interested in pursuing honors—or simply want more information—please write Professor Brewer at hbrewer@umd.edu or stop by her office hours on Tu-Th 10:30-12:00 (FSK 2133).  To submit an application, send Professor Brewer the following: a brief statement of interest, an unofficial transcript, and a writing sample.  The application deadline is Friday, March 29.

Sincerely,

Professor David M. P. Freund

Associate Professor and Director, Honors Program

Professor Holly Brewer

Burke Professor of American History, Associate Professor

& incoming Director of the Honors Program