Education at the School of History and Sociology extends far beyond the classroom. Located in the heart of Midtown Atlanta—one of the nation’s most vibrant cultural and economic hubs—our students have unparalleled access to research, global travel, and professional internships that bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world impact.
The Atlanta Advantage
Our location provides a living laboratory for history and sociology majors. Students frequently engage with the city’s premiere cultural institutions, including the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, the Atlanta History Center, and the Carter Center. Whether you are exploring the archives at the Georgia Tech Library or visiting the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center, the city serves as a primary resource for your studies and social engagement.
On campus, the History and Sociology Club and our chapter of Phi Alpha Theta (the National History Honor Society) provide a close-knit community for students to connect, share research, and network with faculty and visiting scholars.
Global Experiences
We believe that understanding the modern world requires experiencing it firsthand. Nearly half of our HTS majors participate in international study or work—more than triple the national average for undergraduates.
Study Abroad: From our specialized programs in Metz, France, and Oxford, England, to faculty-led delegations in Asia and Latin America, students gain a global perspective on science and culture.
The International Plan: For those seeking a deeper commitment, HTS students can earn the International Plan degree designator by completing a significant portion of their studies abroad and demonstrating second-language proficiency.
Global Internships: Our students combine professional development with cultural immersion through international work experiences that set them apart in the global job market.
Internship Opportunities
Internships are a cornerstone of the HTS experience, allowing students to apply their analytical and communication skills in professional settings. Whether paid or completed for academic credit, these roles provide a "future-proof" edge in any field.
Our students have recently held internships with:
Public Service: The Mayor’s Office, U.S. Congressional offices, and the Criminal Investigations Division of the Fulton County Solicitor General.
Non-Profits & Museums: The Carter Center’s Mental Health Program, Planned Parenthood, the Fernbank Natural History Museum, and the Georgia Tech Archives.
Corporate & Political Strategy: Gubernatorial campaigns and local business consultancies.
Research Excellence
As a student at a top-tier R1 research university, you have the opportunity to move beyond consuming knowledge to creating it. HTS students tackle complex questions—ranging from the history of medical exploitation to the sociology of poverty and mental health.
Undergraduate Research (PURA): Many of our students secure funding through the President’s Undergraduate Research Award to conduct independent projects and present their findings at national conferences.
The Research Option: Students looking to establish themselves as experts can pursue the Research Option designator, which involves a multi-semester research project and the completion of an undergraduate thesis.
Collaborative Projects: Work alongside faculty in our core research areas, including Social Justice and Social Change and Science, Technology, and Medicine, to contribute to publications and local community initiatives.
Academic Advising & Resources
Integrating these "Outside the Classroom" experiences into your degree requires careful planning. Our advising team is here to help you register for internship credit (HTS 2695/4695) or navigate the requirements for the International Plan and Research Option.