What causes economic growth in a society over time? What are the conditions that foster social tolerance and cohesion? The History BA at Columbia College teaches such things. It offers a vibrant course of study that allows students to become resourceful and skillful thinkers, researchers, writers, and communicators. Students engage with the worlds peoples while developing cultural literacy and problem-solving skills. They explore history of the U.S. and of the world, while creating their own individual focus. As they work with a variety of evidential sources, including technological and web-based resources, they build an important skill-set that will serve them well after earning their degree. Since history students take responsibility for much of their learning and research, they develop the confidence of genuine independence.