What is History?
History, in the broad sense, is the study of all human experience. It examines the people, institutions, ideas, and events of the past and present. The study of history contributes to cultural literacy and develops critical thinking, research, and writing skills while helping students understand the present and plan for the future. Historical study provides a solid, fundamental preparation for careers in business, industry, government, and education. It also serves as excellent preparation for law school, foreign-service, international work, urban affairs, and library science.
At Sacramento State, the History Department has a well-articulated undergraduate major requiring 42 units. The History major requires four lower division survey courses and three upper division seminars. In addition, students choose seven upper division electives from a wide variety available. The flexibility of the major allows students to focus on topical areas such as women's history, the history of particular geographic areas, cultural history, ethnic group history, military history, and history topics from the ancient world to history of the U.S. in the 20th Century. History majors who plan to enter a teacher credential program complete the Social Science Subject Matter Program (these students can major in either History or Social Science). Approximately one-third (or about 130 students) of all History Majors follow the Pre-Credential program. Students who successfully complete this program are not required to take the three California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET) which are otherwise a requirement for entrance into a Teacher Credential program.
