Liberal Arts - History A.A. Degree
The program in History at Middlesex explores ideas, institutions, and patterns of behavior that develop over time. We believe an understanding of the historical context of human existence is central to a liberal arts education. Studying history requires the ability to interpret texts and documents of great variety, and to develop critical evaluation and writing skills. These skills are highly valued in today’s job market.
Many Middlesex History majors pursue further study in fields such as history, sociology, law and international relations, education, ethnic studies, and political science.
Upon completion of this program students will be able to:
- Articulate their place in human culture and the global society from a multi-disciplinary perspective acquired through the study of the social sciences, humanities, history, natural sciences, mathematics, arts, and languages.
- Recognize cultural, religious, artistic, economic, political and social forces that have shaped society up to present times
- Analyze change over time as it relates to key events, ideologies, or themes (cultural, religious, economic, political and social) in various geographic areas.
- Apply basic historical research skills to locate primary and secondary sources, including (as appropriate) the effective use of libraries and databases
- Evaluate the reliability of primary and secondary sources using the historian’s methods.
- Create an historical argument using both primary and secondary
SEMESTER I
Short Title : English Composition I
Course Code : ENG-121
Department Description : English
Course Description :
Through a variety of writing projects requiring competence in clear, correct, and effective English, students use inferential and critical skills in the process of composing documented essays. Extensive reading materials serve as structural models and as the bases for discussion and for the writing of essays involving response, analysis, and synthesis.
Prerequisites :
A passing score on the College Placement Test; or a grade of "C" or better in ENG-010 and RDG-011 (RDG-011 can be a co-requisite; or a grade of "C" or better in ESL-097 and ESL-098.
Co requisites :
RDG-011 may be taken as a co-requisite if not previously completed with a grade of "C" or better.
- Credit : 3
Short Title : History Elective
Course Code : HIS-EL2
Department Description : History and Social Science
- Credit : 3
Select one of the following History sequences:
HIS-121 and HIS-122 OR HIS-131 and HIS-132 OR HIS-221 and HIS-222
Short Title : Statistics I
Course Code : MAT-123
Department Description : Mathematics
Course Description :
Familiarizes students with mathematical models that occur in more advanced courses and in the areas of business, science and the social sciences using exploratory data analysis and statistical methods. Topics include descriptive statistics linear regression, probability and probability distribution, confidence intervals, and an introduction to hypothesis testing.
Prerequisites :
MAT-013 or appropriate score on the College placement test
Co requisites :
MAT-090
Corequiste Exemption: Proficiency at the Level of Algebra II
- Credit : 3
Short Title : Introduction to Philosophy
Course Code : PHI-121
Department Description : History and Social Science
Course Description :
Introduces the major topics, problems, and methods of philosophy and surveys the writings of major historical figures in the field. Topics of discussion include the nature of philosophy; the nature and limits of human knowledge; the scope and limits of human freedom; the differences between right and wrong conduct; the nature of the good life; and the meaning and value of human existence.
- Credit : 3
OR
Short Title : Logic and Critical Thinking
Course Code : PHI-122
Department Description : History and Social Science
Course Description :
An examination of the logical experience through speech and images. Students will explore the elements of sound reasoning, the nature of arguments, and analyze rhetorical strategies and fallacies. The course enhances students’ critical thinking and promotes academic inquiry across all disciplines.
- Credit : 3
OR
Short Title : Social and Political Philosophy
Course Code : PHI-232
Department Description : History and Social Sciences
Course Description :
An examination of the principles that establish and justify a society and determine the rights and responsibilities of individuals. Students will consider the application of these principles to such issues as justice, human rights, political and social institutions, and the world community. The general theme of this course will center on the relationship between the development of civilization and the improvement of human beings (morally, socially, and politically).
Prerequisites :
- Credit : 3 - 3
- Lecture Hours : 3
Select SPE-121 or SPE-123. SPE-123 - Discussion and Debate is recommended.
Short Title : Fundamentals of Public Speaking
Course Code : SPE-121
Department Description : Visual, Performing and Media Arts
Course Description : Introduction to the theory and practice of public address; the study of representative public addresses and the preparation and delivery of short speeches.
- Credit : 3
- Lecture Hours : 3
OR
Short Title : Discussion and Debate
Course Code : SPE-123
Department Description : Visual, Performing and Media Arts
Course Description : The development of clear, logical and effective speech communication is the goal of this basic discussion and debate course. The focus will be on reasoned decision making with the context of a free society. Topics will draw upon social values, personal responsibility and/or ethical behavior. Speech presentations will include large group discussions, panel discussions and debates that emphasize the ability to work in a team environment.
- Credit : 3
- Lecture Hours : 3
SEMESTER 2
Short Title : English Composition II
Course Code : ENG-122
Department Description : English
Course Description :
Through a variety of writing projects requiring competence in clear, correct, and effective English, students use inferential and critical skills in the process of composing argument synthesis essays. Students engage in formal written argumentation based on extensive reading and analysis of complex texts. Through the research process, students will locate, analyze, and synthesize scholarly sources to advance their own informed positions on relevant issues in the composition of a formal research paper.
Prerequisites :
A grade of “C” or better in ENG-121
- Credit : 3
Short Title : History Elective
Course Code : HIS-EL2
Department Description : History and Social Science
- Credit : 3
Select one of the following History sequences:
HIS-121 and HIS-122 OR HIS-131 and HIS-132 OR HIS-221 and HIS-222
Short Title : GE Mathematics or Science Elective
Course Code : GE MathSci
Department Description : General Education
- Credit : 3
Choose one 3-credit GE Mathematics or Science course designated in the course descriptions as General Education MST (GE MST). Students may elect to take a 4-credit GE Mathematics or Science Elective in consultation with an academic advisor.
Short Title : GE Social Science Elective
Course Code : GE SS
Department Description : GE Social Science Elective
- Credit : 3
Take one of the following GE Sociology Courses - SOC-121, SOC-122, SOC-123 or SOC-131.
Short Title : Art History: Ancient to Renaissance
Course Code : ART-123
Department Description : Visual, Performing and Media Arts
Course Description :
Examines developments in painting, sculpture and architecture from prehistory to the High Renaissance in Western art. Significant periods emphasized through slides and films. Field trips required.
- Credit : 3
OR
Short Title : Art History: Renaissance to Modern
Course Code : ART-124
Department Description : Visual, Performing and Media Arts
Course Description :
Examines developments in painting, sculpture and architecture from the High Renaissance to the twentieth century in Western art. Significant artists and their contributions to techniques. Field trips required.
- Credit : 3
SEMESTER 3
Short Title : History Elective
Course Code : HIS-EL2
Department Description : History and Social Science
- Credit : 3
Short Title : GE - Language Elective
Course Code : LAN-EL1
Department Description : ESL/Languages and Culture
- Credit : 3
Choose one course designated in the course descriptions as General Education Humanities (GE HUM). Choose two modern language courses in sequence from either: CHN, FRE, GER, HIN, ITA or SPA. For students who completed at least two years of high school study in one modern language, their level of language will be determined by a placement test (excluding SPA-242).
Short Title : History Elective
Course Code : HIS-EL2
Department Description : History and Social Science
- Credit : 3
Short Title : Introduction to African Civilizations
Course Code : AFS-123
Department Description : History and Social Science
Course Description :
The historical development of African civilizations from earliest times to the present. Focuses on the cultural, political, social and economic factors which shaped Africa and its people.
- Credit : 3
OR
Short Title : African American History
Course Code : AFS-231
Department Description : History and Social Science
Course Description :
This course surveys the history of the African Americans in the United States from African origin to the present. Special attention will be given to the social, political, economic experiences and events that have helped shape the African-American community.
- Credit : 3
OR
Short Title : History of Women
Course Code : HIS-258
Department Description : History and Social Science
Course Description :
This course is designed to enable both women and men to understand the background of women in the Western World. Emphasis is placed upon the roles of women in various societies and upon the contributions made by women. Several women's movements will be studied in detail.
- Credit : 3
Short Title : GE Laboratory Science Elective
Course Code : Laboratory Science
Department Description : Laboratory Science
- Credit : 4
Choose one 3-credit GE Lab Science course designated in the course descriptions as General Education MST (GE MST). Students may elect to take a 4-credit GE Lab Science Elective in consultation with an academic advisor.
SEMESTER 4
Short Title : GE - Language Elective
Course Code : LAN-EL1
Department Description : ESL/Languages and Culture
- Credit : 3
Choose one course designated in the course descriptions as General Education Humanities (GE HUM). Choose two modern language courses in sequence from either: CHN, FRE, GER, HIN, ITA or SPA. For students who completed at least two years of high school study in one modern language, their level of language will be determined by a placement test (excluding SPA-242).
Short Title : History Elective
Course Code : HIS-EL2
Department Description : History and Social Science
- Credit : 3
Short Title : GE Social Science Elective
Course Code : GE SS
Department Description : GE Social Science Elective
- Credit : 3
Choose one course designated in the course descriptions as General Education Social Science (GE SS).
Short Title : GE Technology Elective
Course Code : GE-MST
Department Description : General Education
- Credit : 3
Short Title : Divisional Elective
Course Code : DIV-EL1
Department Description : Division/Dept Hour
- Credit : 3
Choose one course from the following areas: AFS, AGD, ART, ASL, BIO, CHM, CHN, CJU, COM, COR, CPT, DAN, DMA, EDU, ENG, FRE, FSC, GER, GLS, HCS, HED, HIN, HIS, IDC, ITA, JOU, LNC, MAD, MAT, MUS, PCP, PED, PHI, PHY, POL, POS, PSY, SCI, SOC, SPA, SPE, SSD and THE.
HED-150 or HED-200 recommended.
Program Outcomes
Graduates of the Program will be able to::
- Articulate their place in human culture and the global society from a multidisciplinary perspective acquired through the study of the social sciences, humanities, history, natural sciences, mathematics, arts, and languages.
- Recognize cultural, religious, artistic, economic, political, and social forces that have shaped society up to present times.
- Analyze change over time as it relates to key events, ideologies, or themes (cultural, religious, economic, political, and social) in various geographic areas.
- Apply basic historical research skills to locate primary and secondary sources, including (as appropriate) the effective use of libraries.
- Evaluate the reliability of primary and secondary sources using the historian’s methods.
- Create an historical argument using both primary and secondary sources.
Contact Information
Contact Name: Timothy Hack, department chair
Contact Phone: 732.906.2590
Contact Email: HSS@middlesexcc.edu
Department Web: https://www.middlesexcc.edu/history-social-science/
Frequently Asked Questions
Why study the Liberal Arts?
A Liberal Arts education is a broad-based program of study that exposes students to the Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Mathematics, and Technology. The study of the Liberal Arts empowers students for success in transfer and a career in the diverse, ever-changing 21st century workplace. A Liberal Arts education equips students with invaluable employability skills including the ability to analyze and construct arguments, think critically, communicate effectively, and appreciate diverse cultures and perspectives. The cross-cultural knowledge, problem solving, and research and information literacy skills prepare students for civic engagement, life-long learning, and professional success.
Are there any requirements that must be satisfied before taking courses in the major?
Algebra I is a prerequisite for all majors. Competency in Algebra I may be verified with a passing score on the College’s placement test or by completion of the appropriate course. Students must also have a grade of “C” or better in one year of high school laboratory science.
How long will it take to complete this degree?
Once students complete required developmental coursework (if any), the degree can be completed in two years of full-time study. Students may shorten the amount of degree completion time by taking courses in the summer and winter sessions.
Transfer Information
Our students transfer to 4-year colleges and universities around the globe. We’ve had students transfer to every state, including Alaska and Hawaii.
The Statewide Transfer Agreement for New Jersey ensures that students who earn an A.A. or A.S. degree at a community college will have those credits fully transferable to a New Jersey public four-year institution, will have completed half of the credits required for a basic four-year degree and will have completed all lower division general education requirements. In addition, articulation agreements are being worked out with institutions granting baccalaureate degrees to facilitate the transfer process. Students should discuss the transfer process with an advisor.
Are you interested in transferring to a school in New Jersey? You can use the tools at NJTransfer.org to see which of your MCC courses will transfer to a specific college.
