History

The history department at Adrian College seeks to give its students tools not only for analyzing the past, but also for understanding the developments and challenges of the present age. It does that by offering a curriculum that exposes students to diverse regions of the world, develops their abilities to think critically, and encourages them to create logical arguments supported by evidence. History classes are interactive, with frequent discussions, and employ group projects, various media, and even field trips. In addition, the history professors at Adrian College help students become better communicators by teaching students how to write and speak more effectively. We prepare Adrian College students for diverse careers requiring skills in research, communication and analysis such as teaching, law, business, journalism, and information management.

Adrian College is lucky to have three dedicated history professors with the background and talent to provide all this to their students. Dr. Deborah Field did research in the former Soviet Union, and her book on private life in the USSR will be published in 2007. Dr. Stephanie Jass, the chair of the department, has done exciting work in the social and cultural history of the United States, focusing on ethnic foods. Dr. Terry Jackson spent three years in Japan, and is currently doing research on the importation of European science and medicine into Japan in the nineteenth century. These professors are equipped to offer courses that cover social, cultural, political, and economic history. They work hard to keep their courses lively and interesting, and welcome opportunities to provide personalized education to their students.

Art History Minor

Interested in art history? If you choose any of the art and design, interior design, or history programs as your major, you will study global and Western art and architecture within the art history program, as well as have the opportunity to take non-Western courses, such as African Art History.  The art history complements majors in history, international business, modern languages and cultures, and English and can lead to careers in historic preservation, museum work, gallery work, or graduate studies.

Students interested in art history are also encouraged to pursue internships in galleries and museums.  Study abroad is also available—art history students have spent semesters in Spain, Wales, Mexico, Italy, England, Germany, and Japan studying art history and architecture.

Check out Dr. Deborah Field's new book!
Private Life and Communist Morality in Khrushchev’s Russia,
Peter Lang, 2007.