COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in History at CSUSB offers students a comprehensive and engaging program designed to develop critical thinking, research, and analytical skills through the study of past events, societies, and cultures. The degree requires a total of 120 units, of which 51-63 units are dedicated to the major, including core courses and concentration requirements. The core curriculum (21 units) provides a foundation in world history, U.S. history, and research and writing in history, including courses such as World History to c. 1500, World History from c. 1500, United States History to 1877, United States History from 1877 to the Present, Introduction to Writing and Research in History, Proseminar in History, and Research Seminar in History.Students then select at least three upper-division courses from five of six designated historical areas, totaling 15 units. These areas include Ancient History, African History, Asian and Middle Eastern History, European History, Latin American History, and United States History. Within each area, students choose from a range of courses covering diverse topics such as the History of Ancient Greece and Rome, African-American History, Modern China, European Intellectual History, the History of Modern Mexico, U.S. Immigration and Race, and many others. This structure allows students to develop expertise in multiple historical periods and regions while encouraging interdisciplinary and comparative approaches.In addition to core and area requirements, students must complete a concentration of 15-27 units. Concentrations allow students to tailor their studies according to specific interests or career paths, such as pre-credential preparation, public history, or specialized regional or thematic focuses. Concentrations integrate closely with core courses to provide a depth of knowledge while maintaining flexibility for elective exploration. By completing this curriculum, students gain the ability to conduct rigorous historical research, critically assess sources, and communicate complex ideas effectively. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in education, government, law, public history, media, business, and for advanced studies in the humanities and social sciences, equipping them with skills applicable to a wide variety of professional settings.