As a history buff, I'm interested in programs that will really challenge and engage me. What are the top California colleges for History majors?
Some of the strongest history programs in California are offered by schools in the UC and Stanford systems.
Starting with the University of California, Berkeley boasts one of the best history programs not only in the state, but also nationwide. Their Department of History is well-known for their expertise in numerous fields, from ancient history to the contemporary world. They're particularly strong in US history, European history, and East Asian history.
Another excellent program within the UC system is the University of California, Los Angeles. The history department at UCLA offers a wide variety of specialties, from African history to the history of science, medicine, and technology. It also has an acclaimed Public History Initiative that focuses on the practical applications of historical study.
Within the private institutions, Stanford University houses a top-rated history program. Students can choose from more than 60 different history courses annually, offering a broad curriculum that covers topics from all corners of the globe. Stanford also emphasizes worldly thinking by requiring history majors to study a foreign language, which aids in grasping historical contexts and conducting research in primary sources.
Last but not least, the University of Southern California also offers a strong history program. The flexibility of their program allows students to focus their studies on several regional or thematic areas, and faculty have a special emphasis on transnational history. USC also has a heavy focus on undergraduate research opportunities.
These colleges stand out due to the comprehensive range of courses, extensive faculty expertise, and the research opportunities they provide to undergraduates. However, you should bear in mind that the "best" program is subjective, and depends largely on your interests and career goals. Look closely at the specific courses offered and the faculty working in your areas of interest whenever you assess a history program.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.