LMU's History major helps students arrive at a fuller awareness and understanding of the many vital problems of existence for without a knowledge of the past, one cannot claim to be an educated individual or hope to establish perspective and meaning in a course of study for life.<br><br>The History major introduces students to the back stories of Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, North America, and Latin America. History students may also learn about, for example, contemporary history and women's history. Students may choose to concentrate in the history of one geographical area.<br><br>The History major learns to examine evidence, select relevant materials, search for causes and effects, and formulate conclusions. With knowledge of historical setting, students can understand and appreciate their own heritage and culture, as well as the cultural experience of others.<br>History majors develop analytical thinking and an understanding of events, processes, and patterns in the human experience. Students gain understanding of how their lives relate to a larger historical process.<br><br>History majors analyze historical texts and learn methods used in interpreting the past, such as criticism of sources, the definition of historical questions, comparative analysis, and the diverse perspectives of participants in history. Students craft arguments about historical change, and analyze the factors that cause such change on local, national, and global scales.<br><br>LMU's location in historically rich Los Angeles offers a further advantage through research opportunities in local archives, film collections, and presidential libraries. History majors and faculty also participate in Study Abroad programs.