HIS 110 (3) WORLD CIVILIZATIONS I–GE
A survey of world societies from the earliest Eurasian civilizations to the era of European expansion in the 16th century. Offered every fall and spring.
HIS 111 (3) WORLD CIVILIZATIONS II–GE
A survey of world societies from the era of European voyages of discovery to the formation of a global civilization in the late 20th century. Offered every fall and spring.
HIS 270 (4) RESEARCH METHODS
An introduction to historical methods and the skills necessary for upper division work in history. While writing several short papers and one major research paper, students practice a wide range of research skills such as analyzing primary and secondary texts, working in archives and libraries, editing and revising, note taking, and documentation. In addition, class readings on contemporary historiography and new methods such as cultural studies and material culture acquaint students with the wide range of approaches to history. Students also visit local libraries, archives, and museums, and are encouraged to investigate the opportunities available for internships and career development during their student years.
Upper-Division
HIS 306 (4) BIRTH OF EUROPE
Beginning with the decline of the Roman Empire and rise of Europe in the West, this course focuses on the political and intellectual rise of Western Christendom and what would become France, Germany, and England. Emphasis is placed on the development of education, monasticism, papacy, cities, kingship, law, and the continuing legacy of the Roman Empire.
HIS 308 (4) EARLY MODERN EUROPE
Political, cultural, and intellectual development in continental Europe from 1648-1789. Emphasis is on the Scientific Revolution and Enlightenment, European expansion, and the social transformation of Europe leading to the French Revolution.
HIS 311 (4) EUROPEAN INTELLECTUAL HISTORY
An upper-division seminar on the intellectual history of Europe from the 1780s through the end of the 19th century. Readings analyze the rise of the national intellectual traditions in England and on the Continent, including Rousseau, Kant, Hegel, Schopenhauer, Mill, Nietzsche, Freud, and others. Emphasis on the rise of philosophical irrationalism within the context of post-Enlightenment thought. Also crosslisted as Philosophy 311.
HIS 316 (4) COLONIAL AND REVOLUTIONARY AMERICA
North American history from initial Indian, Spanish, French, and British attempts to create working relationships to the fracturing of the French and Indian War, Revolutionary War, and War of 1812. The course emphasizes the diverse political experiments and struggles that characterize 17th and 18th-century North America, especially the intellectual roots and contemporary ideas manifested in the United States Constitution.
HIS 320 (4) United STates History, 1815-1914
An analysis of the political leadership of Andrew Jackson and Abraham Lincoln; the ideas of liberalism, nationalism, expansion, and industrialization; the social impact of religious revivals, slavery, and feminism; and the cataclysmic impact of the Mexican, Civil, and Spanish-American wars as the nation hurtled toward world power status after World War I.
HIS 340 (4) RUSSIA TO 1900
A history of Russia from the establishment of Kievan Rus to the end of the 19th century, emphasizing the factors involved in the rise and development of the Russian Empire.
HIS 342 (4) TWENTIETH CENTURY RUSSIA AND THE SOVIET UNION
Beginning with the Revolution of 1905, this course examines the cataclysmic changes which have taken place in the Russian Empire and the Soviet Union during the 20th century.
HIS 350 (4) ISLAMIC CIVILIZATION
This course surveys the history of the Islamic world from the birth of Muhammad to 1800, with special focus on the religion of Islam and its impact on diverse Muslim societies.
HIS 355 (4) MODERN MIDDLE EAST
This course is a history of the Middle East since 1800, focusing on European imperialism, colonialism, nationalism, Arab-Israeli conflicts, and Islamic revival movements.
HIS 356 (4) Early EAST ASIA
An introduction to the societies and cultures of pre-modern China, Japan, and Korea, three of the countries that make up the geographical and cultural unit of East Asia.
HIS 360 (4) MODERN SOUTH ASIA
The Indian subcontinent from the Early Modern period to the present, with emphasis on the interaction between South Asia and the wider world, especially the modern West.
HIS 365 (4) Modern Japan and Korea
This course explores the forces of continuity and change in the transformation of Japan and Korea since the mid-16th century; examines each country's role in the other's "modernization;" and explores the region's interaction with the West in the run-up to the "Pacific Century."
HIS 368 (4) Modern China Through Film
This is a lecture class on films reflecting critically on historical interpertations of modern China. Emphasis is on the analysis of social and poilitical themes reflected in the historical periods, the explication of cultural aspects, and the discussion of the narrative structure that develops a human tragedy or comedy through modern Chinese history.
HIS 369 (4) China in Revolution
China in Revolution introduces the epic sweep of China's modern transformations. The class examines the uneasy relationship between past and present in modern China. The changing understandings of China's cultural and political pasts and the problems and paradoxes of Chinese modernity are the themes of this course.
HIS 370 (4) CALIFORNIA HISTORY
A comprehensive survey of California from prehistory through Spanish exploration, Mexican rule, and evolution as an American state since 1850. Emphasis is placed on comparing myth to reality, new directions in interpretation, and demonstrating how past social, economic, and political events have had an impact on the present. Offered every fall and summer and every spring of odd-numbered years.
HIS 372 (2) TWO YEARS BEFORE THE MAST AND THE HISTORY OF COASTAL CALIFORNIA
While sailing on the
Californian, a replica of an 1847 Revenue Cutter that patrolled the coast of California, the course uses R.H. Dana’s
Two Years Before the Mast as the focal point for studying the multi-cultural history of the California coast before the 1850s. Summer only.
HIS 375 (3) AFRICAN CULTURES AND HISTORIES
An interdisciplinary examination of the social and cultural histories of Africa with emphasis on the contact between Africans and Europeans since the late Nineteenth Century. Crosslisted with Sociology 375. Offered fall of odd years.
HIS 380 (4) AMERICA IN THE 1960’S
The study of this pivotal decade focuses on many social, economic, political, and military themes, including the Vietnam War, assassinations, Cold War, civil rights, the war against poverty, the space race, women’s rights, urban riots, student unrest, music, and other cultural manifestations of alienation from the prevailing American culture.
HIS 390 (3-15) OFF-CAMPUS COOPERATIVE PROGRAMS
This course provides history credit for participation in an off-campus studies program approved by the department, such as historical and archaeological programs offered through other colleges and universities or those offered on a special basis by Point Loma. Application for approval is made to the departmental office.
HIS 413 (4) NINETEENTH-CENTURY EUROPE
A survey of European society and politics from 1789 to 1914. Emphasis is placed on the French Revolution, the industrial revolution, national unification, and the European balance of power until 1914.
HIS 414 (4) TWENTIETH-CENTURY EUROPE
A survey of European history since World War I. Special attention is given to the rise of fascist regimes, the Cold War, and the opening of Eastern Europe since 1989.
HIS 415 (4) EUROPE AND THE WORLD
European imperialism since 1800 with an emphasis on the British Empire in India and the European scramble for Africa. Lectures and readings compare different national approaches to colonialism and Empire, assess the impact of Empire on the cultural and political developments of the European nations, and consider the legacy of colonialism in the 20th century.
HIS 425 (4) UNITED STATES Since 1914
Beginning with the outbreak of World War I, analyzes in detail the kaleidoscopic nature of contemporary American life. Emphasizes the shift from traditional values to modern relativism and secularism, the benefits and liabilities of being a world power, and the impact of great personalities as the nation threaded its way through depression, wars, scandals, and technological advance.
HIS 435 (4) Asian-American History: 1800 to THE Present
This course introduces the field of Asian American history, which examines the experiences of people of Chinese, Japanese, Korean, South Asian, Filipino, and Southeast Asian ancestry in the United States.
HIS 436 (4) America in East Asia: 1800 to THE Present
This course is designed to acquaint students with the on-going interchange between the U.S. and East Asian countries. Although several units of the course are devoted to China, Japan, and Korea, attention is also given to such Southeast Asian countries as Vietnam and the Philippines. Among the themes explored in the course are tradition and modernization, collisions between East and West, democracy and authoritarianism, imperialism and nationalism, and interdependence and independence.
HIS 460 (1-4) INTERNSHIP IN HISTORY
A learning experience in a work environment at selected sites. Students are under the supervision of an on-site supervisor and a faculty academic advisor.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
HIS 473 (4) THEMES IN HISTORY
An intensive study of a selected historical theme in either American or world history based, in part, on the usage of primary sources. May be repeated for a maximum of eight units.
HIS 475 (4) TOPICS IN WOMEN’S HISTORY–WS
This seminar explores themes in the field of women’s history. Women’s roles and historical contributions, the context of gender relations, and methodologies of social and intellectual history studied within a specific era or topic in American or world history.
HIS 480 (4) SEMINAR IN SAN DIEGO HISTORY
Students in this seminar focus on a significant social, economic, or political theme in local history. Most of the research uses to best advantage the wide range of primary sources located in San Diego area archives. Working with the professor and fellow students, research papers are prepared to professional standards which may lead to publication in a historical journal.
HIS 487(4) THE ANCIENT HISTORIANS
An intensive reading seminar using translations of ancient histories, this course focuses on the history of the Fertile Crescent and the Mediterranean from the beginnings of the Persian Empire to the fall of the Western Roman Empire as told by ancient historians. Use of evidence, conceptions of time and purpose, and the responsibilities of the historian are emphasized along with the narrative presented by historians such as Moses, Herodotus, Livy, Plutarch, Luke, Eusibius, and Tacitus.
HIS 490 (1-4) SPECIAL STUDIES IN HISTORY
An individualized study of a special topic or an internship applying the critical skills of the historian. The project must be approved and supervised by a department faculty member. May be repeated for a maximum of eight units.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Lower-Division
POL 101 (3) INTRO TO POLITICAL SCIENCE–GE
A survey of the major elements of the political world. The course focuses on important concepts of political philosophy and behavior, structures of government, and the people and processes of politics. Offered every fall and spring.
POL 165 (4) AMERICAN GOVERNMENT
A study of American political ideas, governmental institutions, and political processes at the national, state, and local levels. The study also describes and evaluates the major policy commitments of the national government. Meets the United States Constitution requirement to obtain a California teaching credential. Offered every spring.
POL 190 (4) THE POLITICS OF RACE, CLASS, AND GENDER–GE/WS
An introduction to politics, using an interdisciplinary approach to contemporary controversies surrounding issues of ethnicity, socioeconomic class, and gender. The course includes historical, legal, and political perspectives. Offered every fall.
POL 230 (4) INTRODUCTION TO INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
An investigation of the structures of international relations with reference to conflict and cooperation. Topics include the national interest, alliances, the causes of war, conflict resolution, diplomacy, and international law. Offered every spring.
POL 270 (4) SCOPE AND METHODS OF POLITICAL SCIENCE
An examination of the scope of the discipline of political science and the methodological skills used in the study of political phenomena. Offered every fall.
POL 290 (3) WORLD REGIONAL GEOGRAPHY
A survey of the six major geographical regions of the world, and the interaction between the geological and geographical environments and the social and cultural structures of the peoples of those regions.
Upper-Division
POL 301 (4) EUROPEAN GOVERNMENTS AND EUROPEAN UNION
This course explores the governments and politics of the major democratic European nations and the nations of Eastern Europe in transition to democracy. The regional integration movement in Europe embodied in the European Community is also analyzed.
POL 320 (4) U.S. CONSTITUTION AND CIVIL LIBERTIES LAW
A survey of the basic tenets of constitutional law with an emphasis on civil liberties embodied in the Bill of Rights and major Supreme Court decisions.
POL 321 (4) WESTERN POLITICAL THOUGHT
Study of canonical texts by important political thinkers throughout the history of Western civilization, such as Plato, Aristotle, Hobbes, Locke, Marx, and Foucault. Issues of enduring interest to political philosophers, such as freedom, justice, and authority are discussed.
POL 325 (4) AMERICAN POLITICAL THOUGHT
Foundations of democratic theory and the development of political thought in the American experience, from its Enlightenment roots to postmodern challenges.
POL 330 (4) THE DEVELOPMENT OF FEMINIST THOUGHT–WS
A survey of the development of various strands of feminist thought, and engagement in current conversations within and about feminism.
POL 341 (4) CAMPAIGNS AND ELECTIONS IN AN ELECTRONIC AGE
This course analyzes the American electoral process with regard to the history of the political party system, recent trends in partisanship and vote choice, basic techniques of political advertising, and the role of television news, the Internet, and other electronic media in campaigns.
POL 350 (2) REBUILDING DEVASTATED STATES
Political collapse and humanitarian disaster are increasingly resulting from exploited economies, internal war, and policies of repression and genocide. Using such cases as Armenia, Somalia, Rwanda, and Mozambique, this course explores the efforts to demobilize and reconcile the country, reconstruct social structures, and create democratic politics and capitalistic economies. Special attention is also given to the theories of democratization, the efforts of the international donor community, and the relief and rebuilding activities of non-governmental organizations. Offered on a Quad basis.
POL 351 (4) WAR AND PEACE STUDIES
The first part of this course explores traditional theories and modern scientific studies of war. The course then moves to an analysis of the Vienna and Versailles Peace Conferences, alternative peace paradigms, and then methods of peace research and avenues of policy action.
POL 360 (4) CALIFORNIA GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS
The course explores the state and local government of California, the political dynamics of the state, and the contemporary issues of both the state and local levels such as water policy, urban planning, and redevelopment.
POL 370 (4) Comparative Politics
An introduction to the political processes and institutions within countries, with a focus on comparing these across regions. Topics include forms of governance, revolutions, ethnic conflict, and development. A different region of the world will be highlighted to explore these issues each year. Offered every spring.
POL 380 (4) CONGRESS AND THE PRESIDENCY
A study of the legislative and executive branches of American government. Topics include the structure and functions of the United States Congress and the presidency, relations between the branches, and the role of interest groups in influencing legislators and executives.
POL 390 (9) AMERICAN CAPITALS PROGRAM
This three-course sequence of classes in political issues and governmental processes is taken in either Sacramento, California, or Washington, D.C. The sequence is taken in conjunction with Political Science 460 and together the courses provide students with politically contextualized study and experience in government. Available only through the Sacramento Semester Program in Sacramento, or the American Studies or Washington Semester Program in Washington, D.C.
POL 391 (9) WORLD CAPITALS PROGRAM
This sequence of classes in political issues and governmental processes is taken in the national capital of another country. The sequence is taken in conjunction with Political Science 460 and together they provide students interested in world or comparative politics the opportunity for politically contextualized study and experience.
POL 415 (4) WOMEN AND POLITICS–WS
An examination of women’s role in political life. The content includes analysis of gender as a legitimate category of political inquiry, gender-based social movements, women’s political participation, and the impact of political systems and public policy on women.
POL 420 (4) UNITED STATES FOREIGN POLICY
A study of the policy-making process, including the roles of public opinion and the president, the United States Congress, and the bureaucracy. The course also investigates the challenges and opportunities facing the United States in the new post-Cold War world of economic competition.
POL 435 (4) GLOBAL GOVERNANCE
This course reviews and evaluates the evolving mechanisms for global order and justice. Primary attention is given to the United Nations system, international law, and the expansion of international regimes.
POL 437 (4) INTERNATIONAL ECONOMICS
This course presents detailed treatment of theories and models of international trade, rationale for barriers to trade, government trade policies, international trade agreements and organizations, balance of payments, exchange rate regimes, currency unions, and foreign debt issues. Crosslisted as Economics 410.
Prerequisites: Economics 101 and 102 or consent of instructor.
POL 438 (4) International Law
This course introduces advanced undergraduate students to the development and content of international law, in particular its role in the current practice of international relations. Topics include laws of war, use of force, minority rights, enivronmental law, and the future of international law.
Prerequisite: Political Science 435 or consent of instructor.
POL 441 (4) ISSUES IN PUBLIC POLICY
A study of the policy-making process in the United States, illustrated by an in-depth study of a contemporary public policy issue.
POL 442 (4) CONTEMPORARY ISSUES IN WORLD POLITICS
An in-depth study of selected issues in contemporary world politics, such as arms control issues, environmental issues, convergence issues, and virtual diplomacy.
POL 444 (4) Contemporary Political IdeolOgies
This course examines political ideologies that shape beliefs, values, and actions of political movements and regimes. Topics include totalitarianism, authoritarianism, socialism, and democracy. Includes an in-depth study of democratic theory and practice globally.
POL 450 (2) ISSUES OF GLOBAL HUMAN RIGHTS
This course reviews the causes of such gross violations of human rights as genocide, torture, and “ethnic cleansing,” the corpus of international human rights law, and emerging areas of human rights concern.
POL 455 (4) Social Movements and RelIgion in World Politics
This course explores the influence and action of non-state actors in world politics, focusing in particular on networks of actors and the ideas that motivate these movements. Topics include globalization, the development of global civil society, north-south relations, religious violence and nationalism, and the role of religion within and among states. Offered spring 2009.
POL 460 (2-4) INTERNSHIP IN POLITICAL SCIENCE
A learning experience in a work environment at a selected governmental or public advocacy site. Students are under the supervision of an on-site supervisor and an academic advisor.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
POL 490 (1-4) SPECIAL STUDIES IN POLITICAL SCIENCE
An individualized study of a topic applying the special skills of a political scientist. The project must be approved and supervised by an academic advisor. May be repeated up to a total of eight units.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.