At Providence College, students of history are encouraged to develop sensitivity to the past, so that they may better understand the present and prepare intelligently to deal with the challenges of the future. The study of history – which bridges many of the liberal arts --- trains students to master details, analyze and assess evidence, solve problems, and communicate ideas effectively. Students can achieve a broad knowledge and understanding of human experience within its political, social, economic, intellectual, and cultural heritages.

The Department of History educates students in historical methods, with emphasis on doing the work of history with the greatest possible objectivity. Courses are intended to develop the history student’s understanding of both European and American civilizations, while providing majors with opportunities to gain knowledge of non-Western civilizations. The history program also develops in students an appreciation of the Judaeo-Christian heritage – including Catholic Church history and its relationship to the early, medieval, and modern historical periods.

In addition to the history major, PC offers a history/secondary education degree option that provides in-depth preparation for future high school history teachers. Students fulfill the requirements of the history major, along with the education courses and student teaching requirements for secondary teacher certification in Rhode Island and most other states. All of the education programs at the College are approved by the R. I. Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Interstate Certification Compact.

Beyond careers in teaching, history majors are well equipped to compete in a variety of professions, and many Providence College students pursue graduate and professional school studies. PC history graduates hold positions in banking and finance, the military, as journalists, lawyers, librarians, and as civil servants with federal, state, and local governments.