200,000+
Alumni from our Global Campuses
Explore the Past and Present Through an In-Depth, Global Perspective
Discover how history shapes our world and how political institutions influence society, culture and economics with Webster University’s Bachelor of Arts in History and Political Science.
This flexible, interdisciplinary program combines the study of the past with the examination of contemporary political institutions, issues and movements. Rather than relying on traditional memorization-focused approaches, you will draw direct connections between historical developments and contemporary global issues.
As a History and Political Science major, you will develop the highly sought-after “soft skills” that modern employers crave. Our curriculum is designed to teach you how to communicate effectively, think critically to solve complex problems and independently conduct research projects. By training you to analyze qualitative and quantitative evidence, this program ensures your degree commands strong credibility in the labor market.
Choose Your Path With a Tailored Emphasis
While the merged program offers a broad foundational understanding of both fields, you can customize your degree by choosing one of two distinct emphases depending on your career goals:
History Emphasis
Explore American, European and non-Western history with the flexibility to tailor your studies to your specific interests. You will learn to read perceptively, craft well-reasoned historical arguments, use evidence effectively and communicate your findings persuasively. This emphasis prepares you for careers in teaching, law, public service and graduate studies.
Political Science Emphasis
Study political institutions and how they influence society, culture and economics. You will examine both U.S. and international politics, placing political structures and issues in historical context to build persuasive political arguments. This emphasis refines your analytical problem-solving and communication abilities, preparing you for law school, public policy, the private sector or government careers.
Why Choose Webster for Your History and Political Science Degree?
A Rare Regional Advantage
Combined History and Political Science degrees are uncommon in the region. Choosing this major demonstrates a dedicated commitment to interdisciplinary studies, giving you a competitive edge over peers with narrower technical degrees. While regional standalone programs have plateaued, enrollment in combined programs grew 40% from 2020 to 2023, proving a high demand for versatile graduates.
Dedicated Faculty Mentorship
Our faculty are not only passionate educators but also highly regarded scholars in their fields. This collaborative environment allows our expert faculty to provide personalized, one-on-one academic and career advising. Our empathetic instructors are dedicated to helping students of all academic backgrounds, including first-generation college students, find true academic success.
Active Research and Experiential Learning
Unique to Webster, the Global Policy Horizons Research Lab serves as a forum for undergraduate research on policy issues like unconventional threats, technology, and identity and security. The lab employs History and Political Science majors as work-studies, offering you a rare opportunity to co-author professional reports, present research to agencies like the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency and build an elite resume before graduation.
Beyond the lab, targeted research opportunities allow you to delve deeper into historical topics of interest. Engage in archival research, conduct oral history interviews and explore primary sources to develop a deeper understanding of the past and contribute to historical scholarship. By leveraging our extensive connections, you can maximize your potential through valuable internships, study abroad programs and other experiential opportunities.
Become a Well-Connected Global Citizen
True to Webster’s global mission, you can take your History and Political Science degree worldwide. We offer Study Abroad opportunities at our campuses in Geneva, Switzerland; Vienna, Austria; Athens, Greece; and Leiden, the Netherlands. Explore the roots of political structures at the birthplace of democracy in Athens, or study international institutions firsthand in Geneva.
Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Our courses place historically marginalized communities at the center of analysis. You will critically examine how racial and gendered ideologies have shaped social change and political frameworks through dedicated courses covering women's history, the politics of race and gender, the history of disability, African American history and African history.
Bachelor of Arts in History and Political Science
Find out more about the overall curriculum, electives, learning outcomes and more for our major in History and Political Science.
Program Details
Explore our catalog for more details about courses and admission requirements for the History and Political Science bachelor’s degree.
Locations
This program is offered in Webster Groves, Missouri, and you can take advantage of several Study Abroad opportunities at our international campuses.
What Can You Do with a BA in History and Political Science?
A degree in History and Political Science prepares you for a broad spectrum of occupations rather than a single, rigid track. Webster alumni successfully translate their analytical and communication skills into thriving careers across corporate business, entrepreneurship, law, journalism and nonprofit management.
Potential career pathways for graduates with a bachelor’s in History and Political Science include:
- Policy Analyst/Political Consultant
- Historic Preservation Specialist/Park Ranger
- Legislative Assistant/Government Relations Specialist
- Museum Curator/Archivist
- Diplomat/Foreign Service Officer
- Campaign Manager/Public Affairs Specialist
- Nonprofit Program Coordinator
- Journalist/Political Correspondent
Job Market Outlook and Earnings
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the skills gained from this interdisciplinary background translate to competitive, high-earning fields such as political scientist (2024 median pay $139,380), postsecondary teacher (2024 median pay $83,980), historian (2024 median pay $74,050) and archivist, curator or museum worker (2024 median pay $57,100). Some positions may require graduate study, but a History and Political Science degree provides critical thinking, research, writing and analytical skills valued across these fields.
Notable Alumni Career Placements
Our graduates have built impactful careers with prestigious organizations worldwide, including:
- United Nations Deputy High Commissioner for Refugees
- Historic Preservation Specialist, New Jersey Historic Trust
- Curator of Local History, Special Collections, Washington University Library
- Superintendent of State Historic Sites, Illinois
- Communications Specialist, Research Institute
- International Business Consultant
- Volunteer, Peace Corps
Related Degree Programs
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Contact the Admissions Office to Find Out More
If you have more questions about the program, your application or other enrollment-related inquiries, contact our Admissions Office.
Call 314-246-7800 or 800-753-6765 or send an email to admit@webster.edu.