Welcome to the Department of History, Cultures & Ideas—a vibrant department where the past meets the present to shape the future. Uniting the rich traditions of history, philosophy, classics, folklore, and religious studies, our department fosters critical thinking, cultural understanding, and ethical reflection. Through interdisciplinary exploration, we empower students to engage deeply with the human experience and prepare them for a lifetime of meaningful contribution in an ever-changing world.
Graduate Undergraduate Major Minor Associate Certificate
"Jones devoted his life to the study, teaching and stewardship of history, leaving a lasting mark on USU and on generations of students and colleagues. He joined the USU History Department, currently the Department of History, Cultures and Ideas, in 1978 and served with distinction for decades as a renowned scholar and award-winning teacher..."
The Bringing War Home Exhibit is Now Traveling!
Bringing War Home Traveling Exhibits in 2026
James Patton, Peace Corps and USAID veteran, former CEO of the International Center for Religion & Diplomacy, founding partner of Lead Integrity Consulting and lifetime member of the Council of Foreign Relations, joins the Department of History, Cultures ...
Highlights and updates featuring faculty in the Department of History, Cultures & Ideas for February 2026.
In 2025, one of the most intriguing creatures to sweep the internet was a small, sharp-toothed elf called Labubu. Utah State University’s Digital Folklore Project has named this tiny character its 2025 Digital Lore of the Year.
Interact with literature that connects to topics relevant to Greco-Roman literary tradition and uncover the ways that they interact with modern society.
The Classics Program at USU announces a new RPG called D.E.S.Troy (Destination: Exterminate or Save Troy), in which students are assigned roles as Greeks or Trojans.
Stop sending memes to your friends and start sending them to us! Help researchers analyze digital folklore and track internet trends.
Practice effective communication, socialize with like-minded students and debate ethical dilemmas in competitions.
An open-mic discussion series about ethical dilemmas, from robotics to shaming to free speech and the internet.
The Utah State Folklore Club is a social organization of USU students interested in legends, the supernatural, regional folklore, folk religion, material culture, place-based storytelling, children’s folklore, internet memes, and creepypastas.
Gain work experience and network with professionals working in historical fields while receiving credit towards your degree.
Join a team of students as they tackle the translation of classical Latin texts. Both undergraduate and graduate students work on real translation projects.
Roleplay as Roman senators, gods, generals, and nobles in an exciting game that reenacts history as you attempt to become the most powerful person in Rome.
In the spirit of Plato's Academy, participate in a forum for the discussion of all issues in the domain of philosophy.
Phi Alpha Theta is a national professional society that promotes the study of history through research, publication and the exchange of learning and ideas among historians
Learn about issues relating to the study of religion and interact with students from many different religious backgrounds.
Learn about history where it happened! Study a huge variety of historical topics in their relevant countries, develop language skills and gain valuable global perspectives.
Take advantage of one-on-one mentorship opportunities, participate in social events with other high-achieving students and enhance your time at USU with special housing and registration benefits.
