Apply the Past, Shape the Future The Applied History Certificate equips students with the analytical skills to use historical knowledge in contemporary policy and decision-making. By bridging the gap between history and public affairs, this program trains students to “think in time,” applying lessons from the past to modern challenges in government, international relations, and strategic planning. Students will explore the methodologies of Applied History through coursework that includes a foundational class, electives in history and political science, and a hands-on internship experience. This interdisciplinary approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to engage with complex policy issues in both the public and private sectors. Curriculum The Applied History certificate is a minimum 18-credit hour curriculum, including one required introductory three-credit course, four three-credit electives, and one required variable-credit internship. Prospective courses include: HIST 2800 Introduction to Applied History (3 credits, required)This course introduces undergraduate students to the theory and methods of Applied History. We will examine how different areas of policymaking – international relations, military strategy, domestic economic policy – can benefit from a particular approach. Four elective courses (12 credits, required) History Courses HIST 3754 Guerillas, Terrorists, and Insurgents (offered Fall 2025) HIST 3015 Humanitarianism and Human Rights in U.S. History (offered Spring 2026) HIST 4300 Russia and the West Since 1989. Political Science Courses POLS 4800 Constitutional Law: Institutional Power in Historical Perspective, POLS 4805/4805h American Electoral Development (offered Fall 2025) POLS 4815 Presidential Power: Lessons from History (offered Fall 2025) POLS 4820 Voting and Elections in Time International Affairs Courses INTL 3800 Introduction to Historical International Relations INTL 4860 Foreign Policy Decision INTL 4875 Chinese Foreign Policy INTL 4885 Crisis Diplomacy: An Applied History Approach One internship (minimum of 3 credits - variable)
