History provides an essential framework for studying other disciplines such as humanities, natural science, and social and behavioral science. Through studying human activities of the past, an individual is best prepared to view the present with compassion and understanding.
History also provides rigorous training in research, writing, analytical and conceptual skills.
The typical history major at Idaho State University mixes European and American history about evenly and depending on the persons interest can range from studying the history of Idaho to the history of medieval Europe. In addition, students take at least one class in third world history the history of Latin America, for example and two courses where they learn how historians work. The history department at ISU is small enough to allow students to get to know each other and the faculty. The more advanced history classes typically have from 10 to 25 people enrolled. The faculty members have received their doctorates from universities throughout the United States and are respected among students and faculty at ISU for their excellent teaching and research.