Department of History and Political Science
The American Historical Society describes the study of history as “an encompassing discipline. Its essence is in the connectedness of historical events and human experiences . . . [in] understanding the nature of continuity and change in human experiences. Contemporary issues, ideas and relationships take on new meanings when they are explored from historical perspectives. History, therefore, plays an integrative role in the quest for liberal learning. . . .”
Study in the History and Political Science Department aims at enabling students to come to grips with the world around them through an understanding of the past and the perspectives that this provides on societies and cultures in different times and places. Students are encouraged to read, think, discuss and write critically and effectively as they learn to ‘do history’ through historical inquiry, explanation and argument. Because of the integrative nature of history, interdisciplinary approaches are used in many courses in the department. Students are also encouraged to explore basic values and worldviews of their own and other cultural traditions, and in turn, to articulate their personal values, faith and worldview.
Program in History, Political Science, Pre-Law, History - Education, and International and Development Studies
Students who choose history as a major for the bachelor of arts degree will complete HS 115, 116, 211, 212, 222, 261; PS 111; one course from HS 322, 411, 434, or 477; one course from HS 318, 344, 361, 385, 456, or 463; one course from HS 346, 373, or 376; and six additional hours in history which must be in courses numbered 300 or above. PS 111 may be counted as one of the social science requirements in the core curriculum. Students are strongly encouraged to complete 12 hours of foreign language study in a modern language.
Students who choose political science as a major for the bachelor of arts degree will complete HS 115, 116, 211, 212, 222, 261; PS 111, 171, 344, 434; two courses from PS 318, 322, 346, 373, 376, 385, 456, 463, 477, and 495; and PL 260. PS 111 may be counted as one of the social science requirements in the core curriculum, and PL 260 may be counted as the philosophy requirement in the core curriculum. Students considering graduate study in political science should take MA 151 as their core math requirement. Students who intend to take the LSAT (Law School Admission Test) as part of an application to law school should take PL 240 Logic. Students are strongly encouraged to complete 12 hours of foreign language study in a modern language.
Students who choose history with an emphasis in pre-law for the bachelor of arts degree will complete HS 115, 116, 211, 212, 222, 261; PS 105, 111; one course from HS 322, 411, 434, or 477; one course from HS 318, 344, 361, 385, 463, or 456; one course from HS 346, 373, or 376; and six additional hours in history which must be in courses numbered 300 or above. PS 111 may be counted as one of the social science requirements in the core curriculum. Students who choose political science with an emphasis in pre-law for the bachelor of arts degree will complete HS 115, 116, 211, 212, 222, 261; PS 105, 111, 171, 344, 434; two courses from PS 318, 322, 346, 373, 376, 385, 456, 463, 477, and 495; and PL 260. PS 111 may be counted as one of the social science requirements in the core curriculum, and PL 260 may be counted as the philosophy requirement in the core curriculum. Pre-law students are encouraged to select their general electives from history and political science courses at the 300 level or above, as well as BA 351; CO 370, 381; and SO 292, 333, and 345. Students who intend to take the LSAT (Law School Admission Test) as part of an application to law school should take PL 240 Logic. Students are strongly encouraged to complete 12 hours of foreign language study in a modern language.
Students who choose history - education as a major for the bachelor of science degree can be licensed in Indiana to teach history, government and geography in a middle or high school setting. The major requires HS 115, 116, 211, 212, 222, 261; EB 211; PS 111, 344; one course from HS 322, 411, 434, or 477; one course from HS 318, 361, 385, 456, or 463; one course from HS 346, 373, or 376; three additional hours in political science chosen from PS 318, 322, 346, 373, 376, 456, 463, or 477; PY111; and SO 111. To add a content concentration in economics, students also complete EB 212 and one additional 300 or 400-level EB course. To add a content concentration in psychology, students also complete PY 211 and six additional hours in psychology. To add a content concentration in sociology, students also complete SO 292, 321, and three additional hours in sociology. Refer to the Department of Education for education courses required for teacher licensing.
Students who choose international and development studies as a major for the bachelor of arts degree will complete the following core curriculum courses: HS 115, 116, SO 111, EB 211, and BT 331. In addition, students are required to complete HS 261, PS/SO 171, CO 322/MI 321, PS 395ID (3 hours), and at least 15 hours of electives from the following three concentrations. (Students must take at least one elective from each concentration and eight hours must be at 300 level or above.)
Politics and Environment: AG 111, 241, ES 211/L, EB 461, PS 111, 346, 373, 376, 463, or 456
Service and Culture: MI 233CO, 233LA, 233RS, 365, SS 202, TE 233, or 234
People and Society: PY 211, 215, 230, 341, 351, SO 141, 321, 333, 413, or 421
Students who choose archaeology as a minor will complete HS 395ARC/495ARC, BT 320, HS 373, SO 141, at least one skills course (AR 101, 107, 111, 241I, 241ID, 241P, 441, DM 115, 155), and one cultural course (AR 371, 381, BT 331, GR 111, 121, HS 115, 116) plus electives to total 18 credit hours. Students will choose elective hours to complete the minor from the courses listed above and/or independent studies, as approved by the archaeology advisor. Students intending to complete an internship (495ARC) without an archaeological method/skills component will be encouraged to complete an archaeological practicum (395ARC).
Students who choose history as a minor will complete HS 115, 116, 222, and nine additional hours in history.
Students who choose legal studies as a minor will complete PS 105, 111; HS 222; BA 351 (or CJ 345); and six additional hours in courses approved by the pre-law advisor for a total of 18 credit hours. Other credit may apply from internships, independent studies, or PS 391 as approved by the pre-law advisor.
Students who choose museum studies as a minor will complete HS 115, 116; BA 252; three hours of AR/HS 495; and six hours from HS 211, 212, 222, 261, 373, AR 371 and 381. Students interested in interning and eventually working in an art museum should select both AR 371 and 381.
Students who choose political science as a minor will complete PS 105, 111, and 171; HS 222; and six additional hours in political science courses.
Students who choose refugee studies as a minor will complete PS 171, 395RE (1-3 hours); CO 322/MI 321; and at least nine hours from BT 331, HS 261, MI 233CO, 233LA, 233RS, NU 310, 450, 451, PS 346, 373, 376, 456, PY 211 (or 215 or 230), 341, 351, SN 111, 121, SO 111, 141, 321, 333, 413, 421, SS 202, TE 233, or 234 for a total of 18 hours in the minor.
Customized Academic Program
The Customized Academic Program (CAP) permits students to design individualized, interdisciplinary majors. Students who are interested in pursuing CAP as their major may contact the Department of History and Political Science or the Office of the Registrar for assistance in the application and approval process.
Courses in History
This course provides an introduction to the theory and practice of historical scholarship, or the "nuts and bolts" of doing history at an advanced level. Students examine and discuss key documents and themes in the history of Western civilization from the Ancient Near East to the Early Modern Period in Europe. Students explore problems in advanced historical investigation and become acquainted with the tools of historical analysis. Attention is given to Christian perspectives on historical development and progression.
The course surveys key documents and themes in the history of Western civilization from the Early Modern Period in Europe to the very recent past in continuation of HS115.
Prerequisite: HS 115
Students observe the daily routines and activities of employed professionals and see how skills and knowledge acquired in class are applied in the history field.
Prerequisite: Consent
A survey of the origins, development and meaning of American history and heritage from the earliest European discovery and the birth of the United States to the Civil War and Reconstruction.
A continuation of the survey of American history from the Reconstruction era to the present. Emphasis is given to the role of social, economic and political factors in understanding American development as well as to the role played by the United States in international life.
An introduction to the nature, scope and practice of historical research methods, tasks and writing, concentrating on the principles and problems relevant to organized scholarly study and the presentation of the results. The logic of historical inquiry, explanation and argument is also thoroughly examined.
This course surveys the history of the British Empire from the mid-19th century to the retreat from empire following the Suez Crisis (1956). It seeks to explain the Empire's growth and the early stages of its contraction in Africa, the Middle East and South and Southeast Asia.
Prerequisite: HS 116
African-American History (1789 to present) examines the African-American experience in the United States through such media as print, music, film, and the visual arts. The course will examine the policies, events, and people who helped write the African-American story. Students will consider the perspectives of prominent African-American figures and discover the way African-American cultural expressions have impacted the United States.
Identical with PS 318.
Prerequisite: HS 115 or 116
In-depth study of selected topics in European history from the Reformation era through the French Revolution. Utilizes complex role-playing games to examine historically significant sources, both primary and secondary, and to acquaint students with the essential historiography and interpretive problems of the period.
Identical with PS 322.
Prerequisite: HS 115
An in-depth study of the structures and processes of American governance. Topics include the origins of the U.S. constitutional system, the development of party organizations, the role of interest groups and grassroots movements, election campaigns and voter behavior, and the administration of the federal government.
Identical with PS 344.
Prerequisite: HS 211 or 212
This course introduces students to the political, economic and social history of Cambodia. It explores Cambodia's struggle for independence, involvement in the Vietnam War, revolution, genocide, rehabilitation and reconciliation, and environmental history since 1945.
Identical with PS 346.
Prerequisite: HS 116
This course examines the religious history of the American people from the colonial period to the present, with reference to the theology, liturgy and polity of different religious traditions. Special emphasis is given to the history of the Christian churches and to the nature of the evangelical strain of Protestantism.
This class studies the political rise and material culture of the ancient Angkor civilization within Southeast Asia. The Angkor Empire was deeply influenced by the art and religion of India. The class, therefore, focuses on the cross-cultural connection and transfer of sculpture, temple structures and people groups within mainland Southeast Asia.
Identical with AR 373 and PS 373.
The study of Kashmiri and Cambodian society from periods of contested sovereignties, to consolidated legitimacies, and to collaborative authorities within colonial statecraft 1800-1950. Students examine the relationship between indigenous kingship and European Empires with specific reference to religion (Hinduism/Islam/Buddhism), power, and authority, within "Indianized" kingdom spaces.
Identical with PS 376.
Prerequisite: HS 116
This course examines an important epoch in American history, including the rise of sectionalist tension beginning in the late 1840s; the war with its battles and its profound political, economic and social influence on the nation; and the postwar struggles to rebuild the nation.
Prerequisite: HS 211
This course addresses the military, intellectual, social, political, economic and cultural dimensions of the movement for American independence. Topics include the preconditions and precipitants of the American Revolution, the military history of the conflict, internal problems in Britain and the rebellious colonies, the divergence of British and American political theory and constitutional practice, the growth of American national consciousness and the consequences of the war for world history.
Identical with PS 385.
Prerequisite: HS 211
A practice learning experience that offers exposure to the field of history. Students are expected to work closely with a professional or an organization, and to reflect on their experiences through conferences and assignments with a faculty supervisor.
Prerequisite: Consent
A practice learning experience that offers exposure to the field of archaeology. Students are expected to work closely with a professional or an organization, and to reflect on their experiences through conferences and assignments with a faculty supervisor.
Prerequisite: Consent
This course will examine topics in European history from the Late Antiquities with the decline of the Roman Empire through the development of powerful Western European cultural and political forms, including the Latin Church, intellectual development such as the rise of universities, the Crusades and the challenges posed by natural disaster and war in the thirteenth through fifteenth centuries.
Prerequisite: HS 115
In-depth study of the classic political texts in the Western tradition from Ancient Greece to modern times. The course will examine how these texts answer the major theoretical questions about the need for and purpose of government.
Identical with PS 434.
Prerequisites: HS 222 and PS 111
The course examines the key factors concerning United States involvement in the Vietnam War. It investigates American involvement in relation to European decolonization, Cold War politics, congress and public opinion. The unit considers the impact of the Vietnam War on American foreign policy since 1975 and - using film, literature and oral histories - the way in which it continues to affect the United States today.
Identical with PS 456.
Prerequisite: HS 116
This course explores the changing relationship between people and their natural environments in American history from the colonial era to the present. Topics include native American ecology, ideas and practices of settler colonialism, the emergence of modern industrial and agricultural development, conservation and preservation movements, and contemporary conflicts over natural resources and environmental health.
Identical with PS 463.
Prerequisite: HS 115 or 116
An in-depth study of selected topics in modern European history from the early 19th century to the present. Utilizes complex role-playing games to examine historically significant sources, both primary and secondary, and to acquaint students with the essential historiography and interpretive problems of the period.
Identical with PS 477.
Prerequisite: HS 116
Designed for the advanced student of history. The study of a problem, project or research paper on the subject of mutual interest to the student and instructor.
Prerequisite: Consent
A field experience in history which provides an opportunity for the student to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. Student maintains close cooperation with the supervisory personnel in the field.
Prerequisite: Consent
A field experience in archaeology which provides an opportunity for the student to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. Student maintains close cooperation with the supervisory personnel in the field.
Prerequisite: Consent
Courses in Political Science
Survey of the fields of criminal law and criminal procedure, civil law and civil procedure, torts, business and contract law, property and constitutional law. Attention is given to preparation for law school and aspects of the legal profession.
Identical with CJ 105.
A study of public policy - broadly defined - and public policy issues in the American context. Focusing on current and perennial questions of national concern, the course will examine issues involved in public policy formation, existing policies and proposals for reforming or changing those policies.
This course examines the various political, economic, cultural and environmental factors that are critical to sustaining healthy, vibrant communities. Healthy communities facilitate "persistence in place" and promote the long-term stability of human populations. Through various case studies, students will explore factors that result in community deterioration and ultimately, dispersal of human populations. This course is intended to develop practical skills and academic competencies for further academic and professional work in international affairs, immigrant and refugee studies and community development.
Identical with SO 171.
African-American History (1789 to present) examines the African-American experience in the United States through such media as print, music, film, and the visual arts. The course will examine the policies, events, and people who helped write the African-American story. Students will consider the perspectives of prominent African-American figures and discover the way African-American cultural expressions have impacted the United States.
Identical with HS 318.
Prerequisite: HS 115 or 116
A study of the political economy with a focus on public policies related to government spending and taxation. Political ideologies related to funding government and providing public goods are examined. Current issues in social welfare, defense and security, public infrastructure, energy and education are studied.
Identical with EB 321.
Prerequisite: EB 211
In-depth study of selected topics in European history from the Reformation era through the French Revolution. Utilizes complex role-playing games to examine historically significant sources, both primary and secondary, and to acquaint students with the essential historiography and interpretive problems of the period.
Identical with HS 322.
Prerequisite: HS 115
An in-depth study of the structures and processes of American governance. Topics include the origins of the U.S. constitutional system, the development of party organizations, the role of interest groups and grassroots movements, election campaigns and voter behavior, and the administration of the federal government.
Identical with HS 344.
Prerequisite: HS 211 or 212
This course introduces students to the political, economic and social history of Cambodia. It explores Cambodia's struggle for independence, involvement in the Vietnam War, revolution, genocide, rehabilitation and reconciliation, and environmental history since 1945.
Identical with HS 346.
Prerequisite: HS 116
This class studies the political rise and material culture of the ancient Angkor civilization within Southeast Asia. The Angkor Empire was deeply influenced by the art and religion of India. The class, therefore, focuses on the cross-cultural connection and transfer of sculpture, temple structures and people groups within mainland Southeast Asia.
Identical with AR 373 and HS 373.
The study of Kashmiri and Cambodian society from periods of contested sovereignties, to consolidated legitimacies, and to collaborative authorities within colonial statecraft 1800-1950. Students examine the relationship between indigenous kingship and European Empires with specific reference to religion (Hinduism/Islam/Buddhism), power, and authority, within "Indianized" kingdom spaces.
Identical with HS 376.
Prerequisite: HS 116
This course addresses the military, intellectual, social, political, economic and cultural dimensions of the movement for American independence. Topics include the preconditions and precipitants of the American Revolution, the military history of the conflict, internal problems in Britain and the rebellious colonies, the divergence of British and American political theory and constitutional practice, the growth of American national consciousness and the consequences of the war for world history.
Identical with HS 385.
Prerequisite: HS 211
This practicum gives students the opportunity to research, prepare and advocate for opposing sides of a current public policy issue by engaging in an annual, campus-wide public debate.
Prerequisite: Consent
Simulation of a civil or criminal trial using materials and procedures from organized mock trial associations. Students develop knowledge of legal concepts and practices while acquiring skills in public speaking and legal advocacy.
Prerequisite: Consent
A practice learning experience that offers exposure to the field of political science. Students are expected to work closely with a professional or an organization, and to reflect on their experiences through conferences and assignments with a faculty supervisor.
Prerequisite: Consent
A practice learning experience that offers exposure to the field of international development. Students are expected to work closely with a professional or an organization, and to reflect on their experiences through conferences and assignments with a faculty supervisor.
Prerequisite: Consent
A practice learning experience that offers exposure to the field of refugee policy or services. Students are expected to work closely with a professional or an organization, and to reflect on their experiences through conferences and assignments with a faculty supervisor.
Prerequisite: Consent
In-depth study of the classic political texts in the Western tradition from Ancient Greece to modern times. The course will examine how these texts answer the major theoretical questions about the need for and purpose of government.
Identical with HS 434.
Prerequisites: HS 222 and PS 111
The course examines the key factors concerning United States involvement in the Vietnam War. It investigates American involvement in relation to European decolonization, Cold War politics, congress and public opinion. The unit considers the impact of the Vietnam War on American foreign policy since 1975 and - using film, literature and oral histories - the way in which it continues to affect the United States today.
Identical with HS 456.
Prerequisite: HS 116
This course explores the changing relationship between people and their natural environments in American history from the colonial era to the present. Topics include native American ecology, ideas and practices of settler colonialism, the emergence of modern industrial and agricultural development, conservation and preservation movements, and contemporary conflicts over natural resources and environmental health.
Identical with HS 463.
Prerequisite: HS 115 or 116
An in-depth study of selected topics in modern European history from the early 19th century to the present. Utilizes complex role-playing games to examine historically significant sources, both primary and secondary, and to acquaint students with the essential historiography and interpretive problems of the period.
Identical with HS 477.
Prerequisite: HS 116
An individualized study of a problem, a research paper or a project related to the political science field.
Prerequisite: Consent
A field experience in politics or government, which provides an opportunity for the student to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. Students will engage in career development activities as they search for internship opportunities, assisted by the department. Students may satisfy the internship requirement for political studies by completing the CCCU's American Studies Program in Washington, DC.
Prerequisites: Junior standing and consent