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Department of History

The Department of History at Salve Regina promotes an understanding of modern society through a comprehensive analysis of the past and its influence on the present.

Our majors choose to concentrate in American history or Modern European history or to double major in secondary education, which leads to Rhode Island teacher certification in grades 7-12 for history. Regardless of their course of study, all history majors research, write, present and defend a thesis on the topic of their choice during their senior year.

So that students learn to appreciate the realities of our multicultural world, we offer a variety of courses on non-Western regions, such as the Middle East, Africa and East Asia. In addition, we encourage majors to immerse themselves in other cultures through the University's short- and long-term study abroad programs in such diverse locations as Italy, Egypt, France and Senegal.

Closer to home, we take full advantage of our location in Newport, a leading seaport in the Colonial and Revolutionary eras and a favorite summer destination for the wealthy during the Gilded Age. From courses on the religious history of Newport to internship opportunities at local historical societies, archives and museums, we offer students unique, hands-on learning experiences in a living historical environment.

With training in analysis, organization, writing and research, our majors are well prepared for graduate work as well as a variety of careers in such fields as law, education, library science, museum studies, government, business and journalism.


												Photo of Revolutionary America

Featured Course

Revolutionary America
Department of History

This course examines the American Revolution from its origins in the mid-18th century through the ratification of the Constitution. Readings, lectures, class discussions and film clips explore such topics as the political, economic and ideological origins of the Revolution; the major battles and military figures of the war for independence; the significance of the American Revolution in a global context; the radicalism of the Revolution's impact on America's political and social order; and the legacy of the American Revolution within American society and culture as well as Western Civilization. Particular attention is given to the experience of Rhode Island and Newport during the Revolutionary era.

Faculty Spotlight


												Photo of Timothy Neary
Dr. Timothy Neary
Assistant professor and coordinator of American studies

A specialist in U.S. urban history and a lifetime learner, Dr. Timothy Neary strives to instill the values of scholarly exploration and hard work in his students. As coordinator of Salve Regina’s American studies program and an assistant professor of history, he also wants them to understand that the study of history and American studies has never been more relevant.

Did you know?

Graduates ready for further study
Graduates ready for further study

The history major provides an excellent preparation for law school and graduate study. Our history majors have gone on to the University of Connecticut, Providence College, the University of Massachusetts Amherst, the University of Vermont, Catholic Theological Union, Suffolk University, Northeastern University and the University of Pennsylvania.

Related Groups and Organizations

  • Honor Society
    Phi Alpha Theta, the national history honor society, recognizes students who have received academic distinction in history and in their general course of studies.