Wayne State University

The Department of History 

History is central to our understanding of the human experience. The study of the past allows us to place our world in context, whether we want to understand international crises, the significance of a national election, or social relations within our own community. The skills of the historian – the ability to do research in original sources, to think critically, and to write clearly and persuasively – are highly valued in our changing world. 

The Wayne State Department of History maintains an international reputation for excellence in history, most notably in labor and urban history and in the history of governance and citizenship.  Our faculty has received numerous awards for cutting-edge research and excellence in teaching.  We teach undergraduate students fundamental research, analytical, and writing skills and train graduate students as professional historians, equipped with the skills to produce original, publishable research in their field of specialization.