The study of history provides you with important skills – including critical reading, writing and thinking – that will make you an informed citizen ready to work for the common good. The study of history not only prepares you to participate in civic life, but is also a stepping stone to careers in many diverse fields.
Through the 3+3 J.D. Program, you can earn your Bachelor of Arts in History and Juris Doctor in a total of six years.
All first-year history majors are enrolled in the Core Program. To deepen the learning experience, Core students live together while participating in an innovative, interdisciplinary curriculum.
Students can practice and see the value of their research, writing and critical thinking skills, which are developed through hands-on experience in coursework, seminars and internships.
Students may concentrate their studies in areas such as business, international affairs, pre-law or historical administration, preservation and archival management. Course work in new fields such as business, legal and science history prepare you for careers in our fast-paced world.
Ready to take the next step? Explore admission options or schedule an academic visit to learn more about history at UD.
Students majoring in history are offered a flexible curriculum that allows them to have a double major or one or more minors. Students are also strongly encouraged to develop interdisciplinary areas of concentration to meet their interests and vocational and professional goals. History majors should consult the department's Director of Curriculum and Advising for further details.
This is a sample plan of study for students starting at UD in the 2025-26 academic year. This is a recommended course sequence, but your schedule may vary depending on previously earned college credits, course availability, advisor recommendations, and your personal goals and interests. Please contact your holistic advisor if you have any questions.
At the University of Dayton, our flexible undergraduate curriculum, known as the Common Academic Program (CAP), encourages you to integrate knowledge — and put it to use.
Wondering how college credits you've already earned (e.g., transfer credit, CCP, AP/IB/CLEP exams) will apply to your undergraduate degree? Use our online Transfer Credit Evaluation tool to find out.
Visit the Academic Catalog for official major requirements, prerequisite(s), course descriptions and more.
For undergraduate students pursuing any Bachelor of Arts degree, the College of Arts and Sciences and the School of Law offers a 3+3 J.D. program, allowing students to complete their Bachelor's Degree and Juris Doctor in a total of 6 years.
Please consult with your holistic advisor for eligibility and timeline as you are scheduling your third-semester coursework.
At the University of Dayton, applying is free and test scores are optional. When you apply, you'll automatically be considered for a merit scholarship.
Learn about our admission process, then apply using UD's application or the Common App.
Rooted in our Catholic, Marianist traditions, the University of Dayton is dedicated to being transparent and ensuring student success. And with high graduation and success rates, UD is an excellent value.
To help you cover your costs, a variety of scholarships, grants, loans and part-time work study are available. The University also accepts transfer credits and credit by exam for undergraduates, giving you more flexibility to add a double major or minor or participate in a transformational experience like study abroad or co-op.
Get more than your foot in the door — get ready for success. At our College of Arts and Sciences, you will have the opportunity to combine the classroom and business world together in a way that allows you to further sharpen your skills. It’s a key reason why employers love hiring our students — they can hit the ground running.
Let’s explore the possibilities. Now you know what we’re about: community, personal attention, hands-on learning, integrity and global thinking. Take the next step and connect with us today.
Our faculty and staff are here to support you throughout your history journey at UD.