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Harrison Ruffin Tyler Department of History
History at W&M
William & Mary history students learn to better understand the human experience across the globe and over time, preparing for informed citizenship in our complex and interdependent world. The diverse undergraduate history curriculum enables students to critically engage the past through broad surveys and more specific courses on Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, the Middle East and North America.
Program Highlights
Explore All ProgramsProgram Highlights
Award-Winning Faculty
Learn from W&M faculty members who have won some of the most prestigious awards for teaching, scholarship and general excellence.
The Clem History Writing Center
Consult with advanced Ph.D. candidates on research and writing assignments. Explore the handouts filled with tips and tricks for strong writing.
Proximity to the "Historic Triangle"
Study resources from American history in the places they were found.
Pipeline to Higher Learning
Gain the knowledge and skill to join W&M’s most successful undergraduates who have been admitted to highly selective doctoral and professional history programs.
Paths of Study
- Bachelor of Arts
- Joint Degree: Bachelor of Arts (International Honours)
- Master of Arts
- Doctor of Philosophy
- Minor
Applied Learning
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Courses
Study various parts of history from Exotic Ports of Asia (HIST 150) to The Crusades (HIST 240) to The Nuclear World (HIST 319).*
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Research
Apply for competitive grants offered in support of independent study or honors research.
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James Blair Historical Review
Read W&M's premier undergraduate historical journal with essays from students.
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Phi Alpha Theta
W&M's chapter of the International History Honor Society sponsors events and activities where students interact with other majors, faculty and distinguished visitors.
Rankings
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# 1School for History BuffsCollege Magazine
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# 1Best Doctoral Program in U.S. Colonial HistoryU.S. News & World Report 2024
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# 3Best College for History in VirginiaNiche 2025
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# 5Best College LibraryThe Princeton Review 2025
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# 1Highest Percentage of Alumni to Earn Ph.D.s Among Public UniversitiesWashington Monthly 2024
Upcoming Events
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Student Resources
Discover more about our courses of study, advising, research resources, the Clem History Writing Center and opportunities outside the classroom.
Outcomes
W&M history students have found rewarding careers in law, education, business, museums, historic sites, nonprofit institutions, government and foreign service. Graduates also gain entry to some of the nation's top graduate programs in history.
Hear from a Student
"My history major has taught me how to analyze the past, the present and the future. I've also been able to present work as part of class history symposiums. As a journalist, my major has influenced how I combine communication with activism and has improved my writing abilities. I could talk endlessly about my mentors in the history department and the fantastic classes." — Emma Henry '25, history and environmental humanities double major from Wallingford, Pennsylvania
Alumni & Friends
We love to hear from students after graduation! Please send us your news regarding employment, scholarly activities or personal events.
Support History
Your contribution to the Department of History will help our faculty members continue to provide exceptional learning experiences to our students, from symposia with outstanding guest speakers to research in the United States and around the world.
Contact The History Department
History
Social Media
Mailing Address
Department of History William & Mary P.O. Box 8795 Williamsburg, VA 23187-8795
Contact Us
- Email: history@wm.edu
- Phone: 757-221-3720
- Fax: 757-221-2111
Courses Disclaimer
*Courses listed are examples. Course availability changes each semester.