The History major trains students to identify, describe, and analyze forces that have shaped societies over time. By carefully considering the development and interplay of factors such as culture, politics, religion, gender, race, and economics, students learn to understand the contextual basis for major issues facing different societies. By examining primary sources and various historical narratives, students learn to sort through competing interpretations of the past in order to arrive at an informed and well-reasoned understanding of historical developments. Students majoring in history develop skills in research, reasoning, writing, and social analysis. Graduates enter advanced degree programs in history, Christian ministries, and law. They also pursue careers in business, government service, and human service fields.