Scott Wells

Dr. Scott Wells is a tenured full Professor and current Chair of the Department of History at California State University, Los Angeles, within the College of Natural & Social Sciences. He has served as Chair from 2014-2017 and again since 2023, and previously held the position of Associate Director of the Honors College from 2017-2019.

• Educational Background
• Ph.D. in History (2003), New York University
• B.A. in History (1992), Columbia University

Dr. Wells' research focuses on systems of thought in medieval and early modern Europe, particularly analyzing intersections between cultural, social, and political contexts. His work explores histories of the body through gender studies and disability studies frameworks, investigates medieval spirituality and devotional practices (mysticism, relic veneration), and examines the cultural/political development of religious communities in Germany from the Carolingian era through the 12th century.

His publications reveal interdisciplinary trends across historiography, critical theory, and comparative religion, with particular emphasis on medieval Europe. While the text does not specify scientific awards, his editorial collaboration on the volume Negotiating Community and Difference demonstrates scholarly leadership.

Dr. Wells teaches courses in medieval/early modern Europe, world history to 1700, comparative religion, historiography, and critical theory. His career trajectory from tenure-line faculty (2003) to full professor (2014) and departmental leadership roles indicates sustained academic impact.