History

This curriculum is designed to provide an opportunity for the History major to achieve an Associate in Arts Degree in History for Transfer (AA-T in History) which completes the first and second year requirements for transfer to a four-year public California institution. While at least a baccalaureate degree is recommended preparation for those considering professional careers, completion of this curriculum will demonstrate commitment to the field and provide comprehensive preparation for further academic study through upper-division course work. This curriculum specifically prepares the prospective transfer student for upper division coursework in History or a similar major at a California State University (CSU) campus. Students should consult a counselor, the Transfer Center and the catalog of the transfer college or university to plan a specific program of study to meet the college or university’s requirements. Note: Courses that fulfill major requirements for an Associate Degree for Transfer at Cypress College might not be the same as those required for completing the major at all transfer institutions offering a Baccalaureate Degree. The Student Transfer Achievement Reform Act (Senate Bill 1440, now codified in California Education Code sections 66746-66749) guarantees admission to a California State University (CSU) campus for any community college student who completes an "associate degree for transfer", a newly established variation of the associate degrees traditionally offered at a California community college. The AA-T is intended for students who plan to complete a bachelor's degree in a similar major at a CSU campus. Students completing these degrees (AA-T) are guaranteed admission to the CSU system, but not to a particular campus or major. Students transferring to a CSU campus that does accept the AA-T will be required to complete no more than 60 units after transfer to earn a bachelor's degree (unless the major is designated "high-unit" major). This degree may not be the best option for students intending to transfer to a particular CSU campus or to a university or college that is not part of the CSU system. Students should consult with a counselor when planning to complete the degree for more information on university admission and transfer requirements. History is the study of change over time. Historians analyze cause and effect, construct narratives from primary sources, and try to explain the actions of people in the past. Students in history courses learn more than dates, names, and events. They also learn how to interpret, debate, and draw conclusions. History majors acquire a broad perspective on the human experience and appreciate how the past has shaped the present. While a baccalaureate degree is still recommended, completion of this degree is excellent general preparation for careers in education, law, historical research, historical preservation, government, journalism, media, and communication. To earn an AA-T in History students must complete the following requirements: (1) a minimum of 18 semester units or 27 quarter units in the History major with a grade of C or higher; AP(Pass) grade is an acceptable grade for a course in the major only if the P is defined to be equivalent to a C or better (2) California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC) requirements; (3) elective courses to complete a minimum of 60 units of CSU transferable coursework; (4) have an overall GPA of 2.0. This degree requires a total of 18 units in the major, in addition to general graduation requirements.