Ball State University (BSU) is a prestigious public research university located in Muncie, Indiana. Known for its commitment to academic excellence, innovative academic offerings, and civic engagement, BSU provides a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs designed to prepare students for success in various fields.

History of Ball State University

Early Beginnings

The origins of Ball State University trace back to 1899, when the Eastern Indiana Normal School was founded with a focus on teacher education. However, financial struggles led to the school’s closure in 1901. Over the years, the university went through several transformations, including names like Palmer University and Indiana Normal College, before settling into its current identity.

The Ball Family’s Contribution

In 1917, the Ball brothers, industrialists behind the Ball Corporation, purchased the struggling campus and donated it to the State of Indiana. The school reopened in 1918 as the Indiana State Normal School – Eastern Division, enrolling 235 students.

Growth and Transformation

By 1922, thanks to the continued support of the Ball family, the institution was renamed Ball Teachers College. It attained full university status in 1965 and was officially renamed Ball State University. Today, BSU is recognized nationally for its high research activity and diverse academic offerings.

Academic Programs at Ball State University

Ball State University is organized into seven academic colleges, offering a diverse range of programs:

• Approximately 120 undergraduate majors
• 130 minor areas of study
• Over 100 master’s, doctoral, certificate, and specialist degrees

Among these, the Department of History stands out for its rigorous academic programs and distinguished faculty.

Department of History at Ball State University

Programs Offered

The Department of History at BSU is dedicated to cultivating students’ critical thinking, research, and analytical skills through various degree programs:

• Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) in History: These programs focus on various historical periods and geographical areas, preparing students for careers in teaching, law, government, or business.
• Master of Arts (MA) in History: This advanced degree allows students to specialize in areas such as public history and digital history, preparing them for careers in research, teaching, or public service.
• Public History Concentration: Established in 1988, this program provides students with practical experiences, including internships at museums, archives, and preservation agencies.

Faculty and Leadership in the History Department

The Department of History is led by a dedicated team of professionals:

• E. Bruce Geelhoed – Department Chair and Professor of History
• Michael Gurlea – Director of Social Studies Education and Assistant Professor
• Emily Johnson – Director of the Master’s Program and Associate Professor
• Scott Stephan – Assistant Chair and Associate Professor
• Wendy Soltz – Director of Public History and Assistant Professor

Scholarships and Financial Assistance

Ball State University offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid opportunities to help students achieve their educational goals. The History Department provides several specialized scholarships to support students:

Key Scholarships:

• Morton and Linda Rosenberg Scholarship: For sophomores, juniors, or seniors with a GPA between 2.75 and 3.25. Preference given to students involved in student government or community service.
• Jack Walker Scholarship: For students interested in the history of the United States, requiring a GPA of 3.0 and completion of History 201, along with a 500-word essay.
• Childress Fellowship: For juniors, seniors, or graduate students facing unexpected academic expenses.
• Dwight W. Hoover Scholarship for Graduate Studies: Supports graduate students interested in community history studies.
• Drs. Anthony and Joanne Edmonds Study Abroad Scholarship: Provides $3,000 for students planning to study abroad.
• Sharon Seager Women’s History Fund: Supports research into women’s history across cultures.
• John W. Hannaford & Everett W. Ferrill Scholarship: For underrepresented undergraduate history majors with financial need.

Additional scholarships based on academic performance include the Althea Stoeckel, N. Merrill Rippy, and Robert A. LaFollette Scholarships.

Contact Information for the History Department

• Department Address:
  Burkhardt Building, Room 200, Muncie, IN 47306, USA
• Telephone: +1 765-285-8700
• Fax: +1 765-285-5612
• Office Hours:
  Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  (Summer Hours: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM)

Conclusion

Ball State University represents a blend of innovation, academic rigor, and community engagement. Its History Department offers exceptional programs that foster critical thinking, research, and career development. With generous scholarships, passionate faculty, and a comprehensive array of academic programs, BSU continues to support students in achieving their professional and personal goals, empowering them to “fly” towards success.