"I loved how I felt part of the learning community, even though I was not on campus. Every teacher was dedicated to helping the online students feel part of the mix!"
Elizabeth Mawlam, Class of 2022

Explore Our Programs
At the Department of History at ISU, our programs equip you with the skills to interpret the past and prepare for your future. Choose from our major, minor, or MA in History program, available both online and in-person. Explore diverse historical topics, sharpen research and writing skills, and develop marketable career skills.
Our MA in History program combines traditional and interdisciplinary approaches, offering expertise in historical methods, digital history, research methodology, and professional development. An MA in History opens doors to teaching, research, museums, consulting firms, non-profits, government agencies, and further graduate study. K-12 educators can pursue an MA in History with flexible scheduling and customized projects. Join us on-campus or online for an enriching journey through history at ISU.
Meet Our Faculty
With a rich legacy dating back to the founding of the institution in 1901, our history department has been at the forefront of historical education. Our dedicated faculty members are experts in U.S. and global history, environmental history, and the history of war, conflict, and violence. Their contributions to internationally recognized books and journals ensure that you receive a high-quality education informed by the latest research.


Why study history at ISU?
- Funded MA program for teachers who want to earn an MA in History
- opportunities in local school districts
- pay increases
- ability to teach in the Early College Program
- Faculty are diverse in subject matter and expertise
- Student opportunities for engagement
- department colloquia
- annual speaker series
- Phi Alpha Theta history club
- Involvement in history programs in public schools through ISU's Early College Program and Liberal Arts High program
Career Paths
- Education
- Research
- Museums
- Consulting
- Not-for-profit organizations
- Government agencies
- Law
Accessible Education and Practical Skills Development
- History coursework offered on-campus and online
- Joint BA/MA program
- BA and MA degrees offered completely online
- Get a teaching endorsement in history
- Development of critical skills in writing, problem-solving, analysis, audio editing, and web writing
Welcome to the Department of History at Idaho State University!
We are excited to offer a wide range of captivating history programs taught by exceptional faculty members. Whether you are pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree, our programs will equip you with the necessary skills to interpret the past and prepare you for your future. Join us as we make history together at #bengalsmakehistory!
Diverse History Programs and Expert Faculty
At Idaho State University, we provide our history students with the opportunity to develop various research skills and utilize digital tools that connect local stories to global history. With a rich legacy dating back to the founding of the institution in 1901, our history department has been at the forefront of historical education. Our dedicated faculty members are experts in U.S. and global history, environmental history, and the history of war, conflict, and violence. Their contributions to internationally recognized books and journals ensure that you receive a high-quality education informed by the latest research.
Accessible Education and Practical Skills Development
We prioritize access by offering history coursework on our main Pocatello campus, as well as in Idaho Falls and online. Additionally, we support students pursuing a B.A. in Elementary Education - History by offering broadcast classes in Twin Falls. Our undergraduate and graduate programs not only develop critical skills in writing, problem-solving, and analysis but also provide practical skills such as audio editing and web writing. This holistic approach ensures that our graduates are well-prepared for success in the modern, global economy and possess a competitive edge in the job market.
A Supportive Community and Opportunities for Growth
The Department of History is a vibrant and supportive community where faculty members are dedicated to helping students unlock their full potential. We offer various opportunities for intellectual growth and career readiness, including participation in the History Club Phi Alpha Theta, internships, and student research projects. Consider joining the History Club, open to all current ISU students with an interest in history, or explore the possibility of joining Phi Alpha Theta, the national History honor society, to further expand your study of history beyond the classroom. We take pride in our involvement in history programs in public schools across Southeastern Idaho, collaborating with local high school teachers to provide college-credit courses and guest lectures through ISU's Early College Program and the Liberal Arts High program.
We invite you to explore our website to discover more about our department, upcoming events, and how we can support your journey in studying history. Whether you are fascinated by historical events and societies, eager to specialize in ancient, medieval, or modern history, or interested in pursuing research opportunities in global affairs and cross-cultural communication, the Department of History at Idaho State University is here to guide you on an enriching and transformative academic experience.