The study of history is an important part of a university education and an excellent preparation for a wide range of careers. History courses provide an understanding of the political, cultural, social, and economic life of past civilizations and help us understand the world in which we live. A history major or minor provides a broad education that informs and shapes the thinking of the entire person. A history minor, in particular, is an excellent balance to specialized vocational and pre-professional studies. Thus, the career opportunities for history graduates in teaching, the professions and public service, industry and commerce are exceedingly wide and varied. A history major or minor provides direct preparation for graduate study leading to an M.A. or Ph.D. degree and to careers in areas such as teaching, research, museum, library, or archival work. Historical knowledge and the skills in reading, writing, and analysis developed through historical study are excellent preparation for law school and for government employment. Particularly in conjunction with coursework in business, economics, sociology, political science, and mathematics, such knowledge and skills are also excellent undergraduate preparation for graduate work in business administration or journalism.