COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in History at San Jose State University is a 120-unit program that combines general education with comprehensive historical study to develop strong analytical, research, and communication skills. The degree includes 25 units of lower division general education, 6 units of American Institutions, 9 units of upper division general education, a 2-unit physical education requirement, and a 3-unit writing requirement typically fulfilled through HIST 100W. In addition, students complete 50 units of major requirements and 28 units of electives or a minor, allowing flexibility to tailor their academic path.The major begins with lower division requirements such as HIST 99 and a sequence in either world history or Western civilization, providing a foundational understanding of historical developments. Upper division coursework then builds advanced skills through classes like historiography and the history writing workshop, which focus on research methods, interpretation, and analytical writing. Students must complete a diverse range of upper division courses totaling 34 units across four key fields: Ancient and Medieval, Europe, United States, and World history, ensuring broad exposure to different regions and time periods. Additionally, students are required to take at least two courses covering pre-1750 history, strengthening their understanding of early historical contexts.The program offers a wide variety of elective courses that allow students to explore specialized topics such as European history, American history, Asian history, Latin American history, military history, and social and cultural themes like gender and identity. This flexible yet structured curriculum ensures that students gain both depth and breadth in historical knowledge. Overall, the program prepares graduates for careers in education, law, public service, business, media, and research, while also providing a strong foundation for graduate study in history or related disciplines.