The University of Wisconsin-Madison’s History Department is a renowned institution that has played a pivotal role in shaping the field of history for over a century. With its esteemed faculty, cutting-edge research, and transformative curricula, it continues to inspire students and advance our understanding of the past.
A Century of Educational Excellence
Established in 1889, the History Department has a long and illustrious history. Its founders, Frederick Jackson Turner and Carl Becker, were pioneers in the field, known for their innovative approaches to historical scholarship. Today, the department boasts over 50 distinguished faculty members, many of whom are award-winning authors and scholars.
Cutting-Edge Research and Innovation
The History Department is at the forefront of historical research. Its faculty members conduct groundbreaking work in various areas, including:
- American History
- European History
- African History
- Latin American History
- Asian History
- Public History
Through innovative research centers and initiatives, the department fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, pushing the boundaries of knowledge. In 2021, the department received over $10 million in external funding for research projects.
Transformative Curricula and Student Engagement
The History Department offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to provide students with a deep understanding of history. The department’s curriculum is interdisciplinary, engaging, and emphasizes critical thinking, analytical writing, and problem-solving.
Undergraduate students can pursue a major or minor in history, with concentrations in various fields. Graduates can earn a Master of Arts or a Doctor of Philosophy degree, preparing them for careers in academia, research, and public history.
The department values student engagement and provides numerous opportunities for students to participate in research projects, internships, and study abroad programs. In 2020, over 50% of undergraduate history majors conducted original research under the guidance of faculty mentors.
Notable Alumni and Impact on the World
The History Department has produced a remarkable group of alumni who have made significant contributions to the world. Among its most famous graduates are:
- Woodrow Wilson, President of the United States
- Clarence Skinner, Pulitzer Prize-winning historian
- Jane Addams, Nobel Peace Prize laureate
- David McCullough, Pulitzer Prize-winning historian
- John Hope Franklin, Pulitzer Prize-winning historian
Alumni of the History Department have gone on to hold positions of leadership in academia, government, and the private sector, demonstrating the transformative power of a historical education.
Supporting a Culture of Diversity and Inclusion
The History Department is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for students, faculty, and staff. It actively supports initiatives to promote diversity in the field, including the History Department’s Diversity Fellowship Program and the LGBTQ+ History Alliance.
In 2019, the department launched the “Histories of Slavery and Racialization” initiative, a multidisciplinary research and teaching program that examines the history of slavery and racialization in the United States and around the world.
Looking to the Future
As the History Department enters its second century, it continues to embrace innovation and adapt to the changing needs of the field. The department is investing in digital humanities initiatives, expanding its international partnerships, and developing new courses that address contemporary global issues.
The History Department at the University of Wisconsin-Madison is a vibrant and dynamic institution that continues to shape the future of historical scholarship and education. Its rich history, esteemed faculty, and transformative curricula will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations of students and contribute to our understanding of the human experience.
- Number of Faculty: 50+
- External Funding Received for Research (2021): $10 million+
- Undergraduate Majors: over 500
- Graduate Students: over 100
- Study Abroad Programs: 5+
| Name | Accomplishments |
|---|---|
| Woodrow Wilson | President of the United States |
| Clarence Skinner | Pulitzer Prize-winning historian |
| Jane Addams | Nobel Peace Prize laureate |
| David McCullough | Pulitzer Prize-winning historian |
| John Hope Franklin | Pulitzer Prize-winning historian |
| Center/Initiative | Focus |
|---|---|
| Center for the History of the American Revolution | American Revolution |
| Center for European Studies | European history and culture |
| Center for History and Social Change | Social movements and change |
| Center for the Study of the American South | History and culture of the American South |
| Center for the Study of World History | Global history |
| Program | Description |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate History Major | Interdisciplinary curriculum with a focus on critical thinking and analytical writing |
| Graduate History Program | Master’s and PhD programs in various fields of specialization |
| Public History Certificate | Program for students interested in careers in public history |
| Digital Humanities Certificate | Program for students interested in using digital tools for historical research and teaching |
| Program/Initiative | Description |
|---|---|
| History Department Diversity Fellowship Program | Supports underrepresented students pursuing a graduate degree in history |
| LGBTQ+ History Alliance | Student organization for LGBTQ+ students and allies |
| Histories of Slavery and Racialization | Multidisciplinary research and teaching program on the history of slavery and racialization |