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Department of History

History Matters.

To study history means asking big questions: Why does the world work this way? Historians research the past and explain its complicated relationship with the present. To study history means connecting to the vast reservoir of human experience and envisioning a shared future. As our students learn, they develop critical thinking, complex analysis, and clear writing skills.

Real-World Application

The knowledge and skills that history majors acquire prepare them for the real world. Gathering complex information, analyzing it, and presenting conclusions in clear prose are at the core of the historian’s craft—valuable skills in any job. Some history graduates go on to use these skills as professional historians. For others, their time in History has prepared them well for careers in law, education, business, administration, museum work, media and public relations, governmental and non-governmental organizations, publishing, and community affairs.

The History Department engages with its students and emphasizes getting out of the classroom with internships, research opportunities and study abroad—all great resume building activities, not to mention helpful in a student’s journey of uncovering their passions and strengths. Courses on offer are as diverse as the interests held by each student, and our faculty and advisor are available to students as they work through course selection and opportunities in the field. Support is also available in the form of a free writing and research tutoring.

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A ceramic plate showing early home life of four villagers

Plan Your Major

Earning a History degree is both an intellectual adventure and great preparation for a wide range of careers. Our award-winning faculty teach classes on thousands of years of human culture, covering all corners of the globe. We hope you will join us to tackle big questions and develop life-changing skills.

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A Nahua mural showing two women trading beans and corn

Plan Your Graduate Study

Are you interested in acquiring the advanced training and specialization that can turn your passion for historical study into a career? Our highly selective M.A. and Ph.D. programs are built to prepare you for a multitude of careers in teaching, scholarship, public outreach, advocacy, and more.

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A roman frieze with figures, horses, and a buggy

Meet Our Faculty

The Department of History at the University of Tennessee features an award-winning faculty that provides a comprehensive undergraduate curriculum as well as graduate programs in three clusters: Modern Europe, American history, and Pre-Modern history (ca. 300-1600).

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Diego Rivera, Lower panel of Detroit Industry, North Wall, 1932–33

Go Beyond the Classroom

History students aren’t constrained by the classroom. They consult rare books and work with archival collections. They put their skills into practice with internships. They study abroad and work as research assistants. Our faculty are always thinking outside the classroom, too.

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Stay Informed

Get timely news and updates about about the University of Tennessee Department of History.

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News

  • A group of people surrounding a glass table with artifacts inside
    History Class Sharing Tennessee River HeritageMay 30, 2025
  • headshot photo of Ernie Freeberg
    Freeberg’s Contributions Continue in RetirementMay 30, 2025
  • headshot photo of Charles Sanft
    History Professor Receives Humboldt Research AwardApril 25, 2025
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History

College of Arts and Sciences

916 Volunteer Blvd
6th Floor, Stokely Management Center
Knoxville, TN 37996
Phone: 865-974-5421
Email: history@utk.edu

 

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Department Intranet

The History department has transferred all internal documentation shared by faculty, graduate students, and staff to a Microsoft SharePoint site. Only those with permission may access this area.

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Knoxville, Tennessee 37996
865-974-1000

The flagship campus of the University of Tennessee System and partner in the Tennessee Transfer Pathway.

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