History
Move History Forward
The Department of History, with its award-winning scholars, provides unique research and learning opportunities that prepare students for the jobs of the future. We're committed to serving our community and society at large by preparing the next generation of researchers, teachers and historians.
Explore Our Programs
Our students learn to analyze information, communicate effectively and engage in research — skills that are transferable to graduate and professional studies, as well as careers in government service, business, industry and social service institutions.
Why Study History at UMKC?
Individualized Attention and Support
A small student-to-faculty ratio allows students to exchange ideas and work closely with faculty who are active scholars with experience in Antiquity and Medieval history, Early Modern and Modern European history, Public History, United States history, Latin American history, and Women’s history.
Community Involvement
We partner with a number of institutions and agencies in Kansas City and the surrounding areas to organize programming, fund internships, and sponsor programs and events that encourage collaboration and promote community involvement and awareness.
Committed to Your Career Development
Our students learn skills that are in-demand in a variety of fields. We work with students, offering a number of career development resources to ensure they have a clear path to accomplish their professional goals.
Ideal Location
Kansas City is an amazing place for history students to learn. Our students intern and get hired at the many museums, archives, historical sites, libraries and organizations around town.
Popular Student Resources
Our Department in the Community
Community Partners and Programs
Our department sponsors programs and events that allow us to collaborate with the community and engage with the public. Learn more about the work we do in the community.
Digital Humanities
Digital history uses digital media technologies to further historical instruction, presentation, research and interpretation. Explore the wide range of activities our faculty and staff are involved in.
Center for Midwestern Studies
Founded in 2002 to create an encyclopedia of Kansas City, the Center for Midwestern Studies has evolved into a hub for research, education and public programming that fosters dialogue among scholars, educators and the community to deepen understanding of the American Midwest.
Student and Faculty Insights
All my professors have been successful in creating a welcoming and open classroom environment where people feel comfortable asking questions and participating in discussions.
Niki Joshi (B.A. '22)
History and English major
It is wonderful to see students grow and develop their own thoughts and interpretations as a result of the combination of their passion and research. Mentoring students has been extremely satisfying for me because I have seen my students go on to develop their work in interesting ways.
Massimiliano Vitiello
Curators' Distinguished Professor of History
Not only is Dr. Grieco inspiring, but she pushes me to my full potential. I don’t think I would have done any of this research work if it wasn’t for her. She has helped push me past my comfort zone and challenged me to think more deeply about topics. This research opportunity has really enhanced my university experience.
Victoria Dominguez (B.A. '22)
Sociology and Spanish major