History
Associate in Arts (Transfer)
Studying history contributes to active, responsible citizenship. History not only provides factual knowledge of the past that is often highly relevant to the present and future, but also develops writing, research, and critical thinking skills that are broadly applicable to almost any aspect of life.
700
Scholarships available – and one might have your name on it
History provides education that is broader and deeper than training for any specific occupation. ICC history faculty are knowledgeable, accessible, and sincerely concerned with the needs and interests of students. Small class sizes offer greater opportunities for discussion than at a larger university.
Admissions Office
Graduates of this program typically transfer as juniors to pursue a bachelor’s degree in history or a related field at a 4-year college or university, greatly reducing the total cost by having completed general education requirements at ICC.
Network with other students through ICC student organizations including the Student Government Association and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
Teacher, Attorney, Archivist, Researcher, Writer, Civil Servant, Military Officer, Museum Director, Journalist, National Park Service Ranger
COMPLETION TIME
24 Months
if Full Time
4 Semesters60 Total Credit Hours
What if I attend part-time?
Our Student Success Advisors help with an academic plan that works for you.
ESTIMATED COST
$9,600
+ supplies & fees
Based on 2024-25
What financial assistance can I receive?
Find the plan right for you by connecting with our Financial Aid office.
AVERAGE CLASS SIZE
25 Students
average per class
Small class sizes mean more individual attention and a higher rate of success.
View the College Catalog to see a complete list of classes for this program.
Meet Our Students and Alumni
“Everything has a history.” (American Historical Association)
Dr. David Thompson, Professor, History
How Do I Get Into the History Program?
A bachelor’s degree in history is designed to prepare students for a broad range of career opportunities. Talk to an Admissions representative to learn how to get started with a History Associate in Arts degree.
- Complete our quick admissions application. It’s free and easy!
- Apply for financial aid (FAFSA).
- Apply for ICC Scholarships. Just 1 application for over 700 scholarships.
- High school coursework in English, history, social studies, and communications are beneficial.
- Experience with high school newspaper, yearbook, and speech or debate club is helpful.
What Can I Expect As a History Student?
- Students can choose from history courses to meet the General Education core, and other history courses that transfer.
- Students should also consider taking courses in political science and foreign languages depending on the requirements of the transfer institution.
- A history degree indicates to future employers that graduates possess writing and research skills and a broad understanding of the world and its people.
- ICC history graduates have transferred to Bradley University, Eureka College, and Illinois State University.
How Am I Going to Manage This?
-
What if I am working while going to school?
We have you covered. Many of our students are working adults who balance life and school. We have great resources on campus to help keep you going!
-
What are my options for funding my education?
Do this first: fill out and file your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Even if you don’t want federal aid, this document is used by many scholarship and grant programs to evaluate aid packages.
Look for scholarships and grants first because usually they don’t have to be paid back. The ICC Foundation sponsors some scholarships, and grants may be available from Illinois or federal programs. Other organizations also offer scholarships, and we can help you research those opportunities.
Federally guaranteed student loans can be a smart way to fund college. Think about your transfer plans and what your career looks like. Some sources recommend that you cap your borrowing at the level of what you (realistically!) can expect to earn at your first job after college. So, research careers and pay, too.
Of course, savings, jobs, and work-study are key parts of your budget. Your employer may offer tuition reimbursement. Find the tools to make a complete plan for paying for school.