The article is a study based on an anonymous survey of students of two departments of St. Petersburg State University: the Faculty of Mathematics and Mechanics and the College of Physical Education and Sport. The questionnaires were focused on ascertaining the degree of students' interest to the history in general, to the current history classes, to certain periods of Russian history and different aspects of historical science. The attitude of students to the educational function of history was also explored. The author analyzes and compares the results of the questionnaire at both departments, notes some features of the perception of history coming from the specifics of the thinking of representatives of exact science – on the one hand, and young athletes – on the other. Recommendations are made about possible improvements in the teaching of history in non-core institutions. The views and wishes of students are compared with the ideas and best practices of modern teachers of history.