History

history Overview

Simply put, you study history to fully understand the complexities of this modern, globalized world. Every person has a history, and to truly know them, we must know their history. At San José City College, our History program invites you to embark on a captivating journey through time, exploring the narratives, events, and individuals that have shaped the course of human history.

Success Resources

 

why study history?

To know and learn from history you must go far beyond the simple memorization of dates and events.  You will develop critical thinking skills, learn to write persuasively, and increase your cultural awareness.  These skills are the foundation of any profession.  The study of history can lead to professional fields such as law, business, government, foreign service, journalism, and teaching. 

Department Contacts

  • Humanities, Social Sciences, and Arts Division
  • (408) 288-3785

History Student Learning Outcomes

  • Recognize the distinction between primary and secondary sources, understand how each is used to make historical claims.

  • Recognize the Connections between the Past and Present; that is, locate both self and others in time and space.

  •  Acquire familiarity with the uses and the limitations of historical comparison as an analytic tool.

    Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

    The History program at SJCC invites students to embark on a captivating journey through time, exploring the narratives, events, and individuals that have shaped the

    course of human history. By studying history, students gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of the modern, globalized world.

    SJCC offers an Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T) degree in History. This degree prepares students for transfer to the California State University (CSU) system, focusing on areas such as U.S. history, world history, and historical research methods. It provides opportunities to pursue careers in education, research, and public history. 

    The curriculum includes courses such as:

    • HIST 001: Survey of American History: Provides a broad approach to the social, constitutional, economic, and political history of the U.S., emphasizing key events, issues, and their backgrounds. 
    • HIST 002: Survey of World History: Offers an overview of world history, examining major civilizations, cultures, and global interactions from ancient times to the present.

    • HIST 010: History of California: Explores the history of California from its indigenous peoples to the present, focusing on social, political, and economic developments.

    Specific prerequisites may vary by course. It's recommended to consult the SJCC course catalog or speak with an academic advisor to determine any required prerequisites before enrolling.

    Graduates are prepared for roles such as history educators, researchers, archivists, museum curators, and positions in public history, education, and governmental agencies. The program equips students with critical thinking, research, and communication skills relevant to various careers.