Why Study History at URI?
We are observers, information seekers, and analyzers. We read, collect, and interpret information every day. Our faculty is committed to education and research, taking pride in teaching our students to write persuasively, read critically, think creatively, and work independently
Our degree programs help you become a highly capable researcher, a skilled critical thinker, and a strong communicator. You will gain access to unique academic and professional experiences, both locally and abroad. Whatever area of historical research you choose as your specialization, you will graduate with the skill set and confidence you need to pursue a broad variety of career opportunities.
Explore your Interests
Tailor your program of study to suit your own interests—choosing from courses on the United States, Europe, Asia, Latin America, and Africa, ranging from ancient times to the recent past. Here you’ll find everything you need to develop an informed understanding and appreciation of past societies and cultures.
Find Opportunities
Our history majors gain outstanding research experience, working closely with a professor during their two-course capstone sequence. They learn how to use historical and archaeological methods to shape public policy and preserve history in our Applied History Lab, and get hands-on archaeological fieldwork experience in Israel and Bermuda.
Create a Versatile Experience. Our program provides you with more than 50 credits of free electives outside the major; you’ll have a chance to sample courses from other departments, complete a second major, complete the Teacher Education Program, take advantage of internship programs, or pursue whatever interests you may have outside of your major.
News
Erik Loomis travels to Chile with the Beatrice S. Demers Foreign Language Fellowship Program - The History Department professor embarks on a new research project supported by learning and speaking Spanish.
Erik Loomis appointed as new Director of the Center for the Humanities 
Molly McDonagh ’25 - History ABM program, was awarded the University Excellence Award in both History and Anthropology, as well as the Center for the Humanities’ Graduate Student Excellence Award in Spring 2026. 
URI humanities director’s new book opens door into the House of David - Evelyn Sterne’s award-winning work examines controversial history of Michigan-based Christian Israelite commune.
Joëlle Rollo-Koster retires after 30 years at URI - Joëlle Koster, professor of medieval history, will retire at the end of spring 2026 after three decades at the university. 
URI history professor’s new book outlines treacherous early 19th century voyage of trade vessel John Jay - Professor DeCesare's book "Risk in the Anglo-Atlantic World: The American Ship John Jay, the HMS Driver, and the Napoleonic Wars" published.- URI medieval scholar leads international team to produce landmark ‘History of the Papacy’ - Professor Koster - editor of the Cambridge University Press 3-Volume History of the Papacy