History Degree at Aquinas College
Discover History at Aquinas
How does the past inform the present? And once we understand it, how does that knowledge affect the choices we make about the future?
As a Saint in the Aquinas history program, you’ll begin to connect the dots across centuries — seeing today’s headlines in the context of yesterday’s movements.
You’ll explore American, European, and World history; analyze major texts through a critical lens; and engage with both primary sources and cutting-edge modern scholarship.
Along the way, you’ll work closely with dedicated professors who know you by name and who will support your research into the topics that matter most to you.
It's Your Time to Shine
See the academic catalog for more specific information on degrees and courses
Majors |
Minors |
|
History |
History |
| Name | Title | Department | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Christopher Breay | Adjunct Professor | History | |
| Elizabeth Chamberlain | Adjunct Professor | History | (616) 632-1049 |
| Jason Duncan | Professor | History | (616) 632-2837 |
| Chad Gunnoe | Professor, Department Chair | History | (616) 632-2834 |
| Bethany Kilcrease | Professor | History | (616) 632-2429 |
Career Preparation based on leadership
History is the foundation of a liberal arts education. The study of the past fosters
knowledge of
those virtues most necessary to the maintenance of a democratic society. History provides
an appreciation of the long
struggle to achieve a social order and the need for vigilance to preserve it. By studying
history, we deepen our
understanding of the human person and our world’s cultural variety, thus illuminating
the relationship between
individual and community.
The department of history seeks to develop students’ general knowledge and analytical
abilities, enhance their
understanding of our contemporary socio-political situation, and refine their research
and writing skills. The department
aims for these outcomes through a varied curriculum, independent study, and internships
that provide field experience.
Rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition, history classes are conducted as part
of a search for Truth.
Successful majors in history will complete their education with:
- A broad knowledge of World, European, and American history.
- A facility with language that will enable them to express themselves effectively in narrative and analytical modes of writing.
- Critical thinking skills honed by historical analysis will transfer to other disciplines and professions.
- The ability to classify and assess different types of historical literature.
- A clear understanding of the role of interpretation in history and familiarity with the Western tradition of historical interpretation.
- Students will refine and develop their research skills.
Student Projects
Check out the current and past research that Aquinas students do with faculty to further the world's knowledge.
Phi Alpha Theta
Phi Alpha Theta brings students, teachers, and writers of history together, both intellectually and socially.
History Resources
The History Department has compiled helpful research tools, texts, and resources for History students.
History Club
The history club is a dynamic organization devoted to promoting historical literacy and to facilitating interaction between students and faculty. We have fun while enhancing historical awareness.
Student Research
Check out the current and past research that Aquinas students do with faculty to further the world's knowledge.Read More about Student Research
What Students Say about the History Department
I loved the History department at AQ. The teachers were all amazing and interesting and truly had a passion for what they did.
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I learned to think critically about the past and uncover fresh insights, skills that have been invaluable in my postgraduate education and in my work as an Archivist and author.
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At Aquinas I deepened my Catholic faith in and out of the classroom. Intellectually I was able to learn more about my faith through classes, sponsored speakers, and symposiums.
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I lean on the lessons I learned from my history professors every day in analyzing the constant stream of news and political noise, centering my reactions and opinions in an informed historical perspective.
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Since graduating I have become even more grateful for the quality of education that I received at Aquinas… The History professors consistently strove to design fun, dynamic, and intellectually stimulating courses for both majors and non-majors alike… I credit so much of my academic and professional success to the AQ History department.
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IMAGINE THE POSSIBILITIES
Where are they now? Recent and Current Positions Held by Aquinas History Graduates
|
|
|
Occupational Employment and Wages - Historians, May 2024 |
|
|---|---|
| 2024 Median Pay | $74,050 per year $35.60 per hour |
| Typical Entry-Level Education | Master's degree |
| Work Experience in a Related Occupation | None |
| On-the-job Training | None |
| Number of Jobs, 2024 | 3,400 |
| Job Outlook, 2024-34 | 2% (Slower than average) |
| Employment Change, 2024-34 | 100 |
For more information see: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Accelerated Masters in Arts in History
Aquinas College students may be able to transfer six undergraduate credits (non-entry level) from AQ to Western Michigan University toward their Master of Arts (MA) in History degree.
Alumni Profiles
AQ grads are thankful for the small class sizes that allow them to form personal relationships with professors.
History Faculty on "Tuesdays with Terry"
Watch as Professor Bethany Kilcrease, Ph.D. talks with Provost Terry Keller about the History Department, Aquinas' first-year seminar, and of course her cat Nicholas Otto Kilcrease on "Biscuit's Corner." Dr. Bethany Kilcrease on "Tuesdays with Terry"
History Department News
Honoring Aquinas College’s Newest Emerita Faculty
Aquinas College proudly conferred emerita status on three distinguished faculty members: Professor Barbara McCargar, Professor Jennifer Dawson and Professor Michelle DeRose.
History Comes Alive for Students At Community Archives and Research Center
Longer class periods in Aquinas’ block model pilot program mean students have the opportunity to immerse themselves in each subject. For this history class, that means they have time to visit the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s off-site collections and see the past up close.
AQ Cultural Learning Trip with Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians
Immersive learning allows students to explore the culture of indigenous people in Michigan.
Aquinas Students are Taking College One Class at a Time, Literally
Citing increased focus, reduced stress, flexibility, friendships and memorable experiences, students are thriving in the Block Model pilot program, also known as one-class-at-a-time scheduling.