Our physical, social, political, and intellectual reality extends into the past. Most people, ignorant of history, are at its mercy. Students and faculty together examine the ebb and flow of human history in its complexity, including the cultural, religious and social values which undergird economic and political developments. Course offerings reflect the broad expertise of the departmental faculty, and treat such diverse areas as American, European, Asian, and African history, with thematic courses in Intellectual, Social, Political, and Military, as well as African-American, Church, and Women's histories. In addition, the department offers a variety of internships for qualified students interested in museum or archival work.
Students play an active role in the life of the department.
Two elected student representatives participate with a deliberative vote in all departmental meetings. The faculty welcome input from departmental majors, as it provides an interchange of ideas that is most helpful in planning and developing courses. Additionally, the Loyola University Student Historical Association gives ample opportunity for student involvement in the department. Student achievement is also recognized by Phi Alpha Theta , a national history honor society. Membership in the campus chapter, Pi Chi, is open to students who have a 3.0 GPA in 12 or more hours of history, and a 3.0 GPA in two-thirds of all their other college courses.