About The Program
Unleash your passion for history and social studies in the classroom with a B.S.Ed. in Secondary Education and Teaching with a concentration in History Education that prepares you to teach students in grades six through 12. Beyond schools, you’ll be ready to lead as an educator in community settings. Our innovative curriculum engages you in experiential learning, blending a double major in History with courses in political science, geography, and economics to build the skills and knowledge needed to deliver dynamic, standards-aligned lessons in history and social studies.
Career Paths
- History/Social Studies Teacher (Middle or High School)
- Civics Education Specialist
- Museum Educator
- Curriculum Developer (Social Studies)
- Community History Program Coordinator
- Political Science Instructor
- Geography Educator
- Debate Team Coach
- Archival Assistant
- Cultural Heritage Advocate
- Mock Trial Advisor
- Historical Reenactment Coordinator
- Academic Tutor (History)
- Youth Leadership Facilitator
- Educational Tour Guide
At a Glance
Degree Earned
Bachelor of Science in Education (B.S.Ed.)
Credits: 120
Application Deadlines
November 1: scholarship consideration
January 16: priority deadline for first-year students
March 15: priority deadline for transfer students
Program Entry / Delivery Mode
Fall or Spring
In-person
Estimated Completion Time
Full-time (at least 12 credits): average completion in 4 years for first year students; 2 years for transfer students
Part-time (11 credits or less): average completion in 4-6 years for first year or transfer students
Our program meets initial licensure requirements in Virginia.
Special requirements
- Students must successfully complete all initial licensure milestone requirements.
- Students enrolled in this program are required to declare a second major in their content area
Degree requirements for Secondary Education and Teaching, Bachelor of Science in Education (B.S.Ed.) with a concentration in history education
| Course | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| General education | ||
| Select 30 credits of general education courses in consultation with an adviser. | 30 | |
| Major requirements | ||
| • Major core requirements | ||
| EDUS 202 EDUS 202. Diversity, Democracy and Ethics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. This course engages students in critical exploration of public education in the United States within sociocultural, historical and philosophical contexts. It examines the relationships between an increasingly diverse society and education in a democracy. Students will be taught the ethical obligations of educational professionals and how to become active agents for democratic, equity-oriented schools. In addition, the course will explore legal and policy aspects of education. | Diversity, Democracy and Ethics | 3 |
| EDUS 301 EDUS 301. Human Development and Learning. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. A study of human development through the life span with special emphasis on child and adolescent psychology, the nature of learning and basic concepts of learning theories. | Human Development and Learning | 3 |
| SEDP 405 SEDP 405. Collaborative Practices to Support Inclusion for Children and Youth with Disabilities. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. This course is designed to help prospective educators, early interventionists and clinicians develop an understanding of collaborative and communication strategies, models and techniques to meet needs of children with disabilities. Skills in consultation, case management and collaboration, including coordination of service delivery with related services providers, administrators, parents, students and other professionals (e.g., paraprofessionals, community agencies) in collaborative work environments will be emphasized. Students will learn essential teamwork skills, reflect on the application of those skills and practice a variety of instructional and organizational techniques for adapting inclusive environments to address the needs of children with disabilities. | Collaborative Practices to Support Inclusion for Children and Youth with Disabilities | 3 |
| SEDP 452 SEDP 452. Supporting Multilingual Learners With Disabilities. 1 Hour.
Semester course; 1 lecture hour (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 1 credit. Corequisite: TEDU 452. This course focuses on instruction for multilingual learners who have disabilities. Teacher candidates will learn how these intersectional identities can impact students and will emphasize how to combine asset-based, culturally sustaining instruction for multilingual learners with evidence-based practice for children and youth with disabilities. | Supporting Multilingual Learners With Disabilities | 1 |
| TEDU 412 TEDU 412. Curriculum and Assessment: ____. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid) 3 credits. Corequisites: TEDU 469 and TEDU 470. The course examines contemporary approaches to secondary education with an integrated focus on assessment, curriculum design and inclusive teaching practices. Students will explore the background and objectives of modern secondary education while developing expertise in assessment literacy and instructional planning that addresses diverse learning needs, including those of students with disabilities and multilingual students. Students must contact their adviser for information regarding which section to register for based on their program. | Curriculum and Assessment: ____ | 3 |
| TEDU 452 TEDU 452. Teaching Multilingual Learners. 2 Hours.
Semester course; 2 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 2 credits. Prerequisite: TEDU 413 or SEDP 405. This course is designed to help teachers who plan to teach English and other content areas to PK-12 students who are speakers of other languages. The course includes attention to social and cultural contexts, the diversity of multilingual learners in the United States, legal and policy contexts, models of ESL programs and advocacy for students. Students will also develop skills in lesson preparation and delivery for multilingual learners within ESL classrooms as well as in other content area classrooms. | Teaching Multilingual Learners | 2 |
| TEDU 510 TEDU 510. Instructional Technology in PK-12 Environments. 2 Hours.
Semester course; 2 lecture hours (delivered online). 2 credits. Prerequisite: EDUS 301, PSYC 301 or PSYC 304 with a minimum grade of C. An introduction to effectively integrating technology into pK-12 instruction to improve student learning outcomes. Students will have hands-on experiences with a variety of current instructional technologies and learn how to integrate these technologies into their practice using research-driven theoretical frameworks. This online course models effective virtual teaching methods that can be utilized in hybrid and fully online environments. Students will design technology-rich instructional modules that can be utilized to improve student learning in their content areas, as well as develop personal learning networks that will continue to provide them with informal and independent learning opportunities well after the conclusion of the course. | Instructional Technology in PK-12 Environments | 2 |
| TEDU 562 TEDU 562. Reading Instruction in the Content Areas. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. Prepares teachers to apply skills and methods of reading instruction to content areas in elementary, middle and secondary school curricula. Includes theoretical bases and methodology for incorporating reading skills and strategies within content areas of instruction. | Reading Instruction in the Content Areas | 3 |
| TEDU 588 TEDU 588. Classroom Management. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. Designed to assist teachers in becoming effective classroom managers. Emphasis on application of classroom management, motivational and instructional theories. Models of classroom management explored; personal management plans developed. | Classroom Management | 3 |
| Secondary education | ||
| TEDU 311 TEDU 311. Middle School Practicum. 2 Hours.
Semester course; 2 lecture hours. 2 credits. Corequisite: TEDU 537. Restricted to students admitted to the Extended Teacher Preparation Program. A field placement that precedes student teaching/internship. Includes planned observations, tutorials and small-group involvement. Graded pass/fail. | Middle School Practicum | 2 |
| TEDU 312 TEDU 312. High School Practicum. 1 Hour.
Semester course; 1 lecture hour. 1 credit. Pre- or corequisite: TEDU 311; corequisite: TEDU 540, 545, 547 or 548. Restricted to students admitted to the M.T. program with concentrations in secondary education. A field placement that precedes student teaching/internship. Includes planned observations, tutorials and small-group involvement. Course graded as pass/fail. | High School Practicum | 1 |
| TEDU 469 TEDU 469. Secondary Internship I. 4 Hours.
Semester course; 4 practicum hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 4 credits. The internship serves as the teacher candidate’s culminating clinical experience. It provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned during their professional academic preparation. In addition, it serves as an opportunity for public school and VCU personnel to evaluate and strengthen a teacher candidate's application of theory to practice in a secondary classroom. Teacher candidates complete a full-time seven to eight week placement in a secondary classroom. | Secondary Internship I | 4 |
| TEDU 470 TEDU 470. Secondary Internship II. 4 Hours.
Semester course; 4 practicum hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid) 4 credits. The internship serves as the teacher candidate’s culminating clinical experience. It provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned during their professional academic preparation. In addition it serves as an opportunity for public school and VCU personnel to evaluate and strengthen a teacher candidate's application of theory to practice in a secondary classroom. Teacher candidates complete a second full-time seven to eight week placement in a secondary classroom. | Secondary Internship II | 4 |
| TEDU 547 TEDU 547. Teaching Secondary School Social Studies. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. Examines demands involved in secondary social studies instruction; preparatory approaches to using academic and professional insights in confronting the demands; formulating and implementing appropriate methodological approaches. | Teaching Secondary School Social Studies | 3 |
| Concentration requirements | ||
| HIST 361 HIST 361. Americans from Africa. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of the history and culture of blacks in the United States, designed to analyze some of the most important aspects of black life and the attitudes of the dominant society within which blacks lived. The second semester emphasizes the changing status, expectations and ideologies of black Americans in the 20th century. First semester: to 1877. Second semester: since 1877. Crosslisted as: AFAM 361. | Americans from Africa 1 | 3 |
| Economics: | ||
| ECON 203 ECON 203. Introduction to Economics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. A survey of economic principles, institutions and problems. The course is designed to provide basic economic understanding for students who do not expect to major in economics or in the School of Business. Not applicable for credit toward economics and business majors. Students may receive credit toward graduation for only one of the following three courses: ECON 203, ECON 205 or ECON 210. | Introduction to Economics 2 | 3 |
| or ECON 210 ECON 210. Principles of Microeconomics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. A course designed to acquaint the student with a theoretical and practical understanding of the economic institutions and problems of the American economy with a focus on microeconomics. Students may receive credit toward graduation for only one of the following three courses: ECON 203, ECON 205 or ECON 210. | Principles of Microeconomics | |
| or ECON 211 ECON 211. Principles of Macroeconomics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. Prerequisite: ECON 203 with a minimum grade of B, ECON 205 with a minimum grade of B or ECON 210. A course designed to acquaint the student with a theoretical and practical understanding of the economic institutions and problems of the American economy with a focus on macroeconomics. | Principles of Macroeconomics | |
| Geography (select two courses from the list below): 1 | 6 | |
HIST 338 HIST 338. World War I in the Middle East. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Explores WWI and its aftermath from the perspective of the Ottoman Empire and its diverse populations. The topics to be considered are the socioeconomic and cultural effects of total mobilization on the populations of the Middle East; famines, genocides and population exchanges; international politics; the mandate system and anti-colonialist movements; and the creation of nation-states in the post-WWI Middle East. | World War I in the Middle East | |
HIST 340 HIST 340. The Middle East, 600-1600. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Explores two transformative historical events that took place in the Middle East between the sixth and 16th centuries: 1) the emergence of Islam and the development of the Islamic Empire and its social, cultural and political legacy in the Middle East (seventh to 10th centuries) and 2) the influx of outsiders to the region, such as the Turkish-speaking tribes, the crusaders and the Mongols, and the role these newcomers played in shaping the Middle East starting in the 10th century. | The Middle East, 600-1600 | |
HIST 341 HIST 341. Modern Middle East. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Analysis of the history, problems and prospects of the nations and peoples of the Middle East with emphasis on developments since the Balfour Declaration of 1917. | Modern Middle East | |
HIST 342 HIST 342. The Ottoman Empire I (1300-1750). 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Explores the history of the Ottoman Empire from the 14th century until roughly the mid-18th century. Examines the Ottoman Empire as a Euro-Mediterranean polity, exploring its social, cultural, economic and political history from a global perspective. | The Ottoman Empire I (1300-1750) | |
HIST 343 HIST 343. The Ottoman Empire II (1750-1923). 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Explores the transformations of the late-Ottoman state and society by organizing the material around several historical processes and frameworks, such as the phenomenon of the gunpowder empires, integration of the empire to the global market, the decline paradigm, impact of colonialism and imperialism, Tanzimat reforms, the shift from subjecthood to citizenship, modernity, transformation of religious identities, state and nation formation, nationalism, secularism, gender and war mobilization. | The Ottoman Empire II (1750-1923) | |
HIST 345 HIST 345. American Colonies, 1450-1776. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. An examination of the development of the 13 original colonies; the establishment and growth of society, politics and the economy; and modification in the relationship between the provinces and Great Britain. | American Colonies, 1450-1776 | |
HIST 354 HIST 354. Native Americans in the South. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Examines the history of Native Americans in the American South and how colonial encounters with Europeans impacted life in indigenous towns, villages and farmsteads. | Native Americans in the South | |
HIST 358 HIST 358. History of the American Frontier. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of the western movement in the United States from the time the first outposts were established to the end of the frontier in the 19th century. Particular attention to the influence of the frontier upon the American mind and ideals. | History of the American Frontier | |
HIST 359 HIST 359. The History of Latin American Cities. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. An examination of Latin American cities from Buenos Aires to the U.S.-Mexico border that explores how cities have represented social, political, cultural and environmental change. The course also considers interactions between city, countryside and hinterlands in order to gather a more complete picture of the dynamics of Latin American history. | The History of Latin American Cities | |
HIST 368 HIST 368. Colonialism in Africa. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Examines colonial land and labor policies using case studies from Kenya, the Belgian Congo and South Africa, and the struggles against the apartheid system in South Africa. Topics include colonial land policies, the diverse methods adopted by colonial authorities to incorporate Africans into the wage economy, local response and the broad impact of these policies on Africans and the movement toward independence in South Africa. | Colonialism in Africa | |
HIST 374 HIST 374. Andean History Since 1800. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A critical view of the historical process of the Andean region from independence from Spain to the present. Focuses mainly on the core of the region, which currently comprises the territories of Bolivia, Ecuador and Peru. Special attention to the indigenous population of the Andes -- also known as "Indians," "Andeans" or "Amerindians" -- and their interactions with other ethnic groups (Europeans, Criollos and Mestizos, as well as Africans and their descendants) in the political, economic, social and cultural realms. | Andean History Since 1800 | |
HIST 378 HIST 378. Atlantic Slavery. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Examines social and economic aspects of slavery in the Atlantic world, principally Africa, the Caribbean, the United States and Canada. | Atlantic Slavery | |
HIST 381 HIST 381. History of West Africa to 1800. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of the transformation of West African societies from early times to 1800, with emphasis on the rise of states and empires, the introduction, spread and impact of Islam, the Atlantic slave trade and its effects, and colonialism. Crosslisted as: AFAM 387. | History of West Africa to 1800 | |
| International political science: | ||
| POLI 105 POLI 105. International Relations. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. An introductory analysis of interstate relations and world affairs. Attention focuses on theories of international politics, military capabilities and their application, international organizations, global economic trends, domestic sources of state behavior and other selected issues as appropriate. Crosslisted as: INTL 105. | International Relations 3 | 3 |
| or POLI 109 POLI 109. Comparative Politics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Introduces students to the ways in which societies around the world govern themselves. Covers such topics as the historical evolution of the political system, political processes and institutions, and key issues in contemporary public policy for a globally representative group of 10 to 15 countries. | Comparative Politics | |
| or POLI 351 POLI 351. Middle Eastern Government and Politics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A comparative analysis of political systems in the Middle East including the study of contemporary aspects of traditionalism, the political nature of transition, the instruments of political modernization, and evolution and revolution in the political process of Middle Eastern states. The course will explore the primary bases of cleavage and conflict and the principal forces that shape the policies and political dynamics of the region. Crosslisted as: INTL 351. | Middle Eastern Government and Politics | |
| or POLI 352 POLI 352. European Governments and Politics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A comparative study of the political systems of selected western and eastern European countries. Crosslisted as: INTL 352. | European Governments and Politics | |
| or POLI 353 POLI 353. Latin American Governments and Politics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of politics characteristic of Latin American systems, including democratic reformism, military authoritarianism and revolutionary socialism. The course also examines the contemporary problems of fledgling democracies as they cope with economic and debt crises and various opposition challenges. Crosslisted as: INTL 353. | Latin American Governments and Politics | |
| or POLI 354 POLI 354. Russian and Eurasian Government and Politics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of the origins, institutions, processes and disintegration of the Soviet political system and the ongoing reform efforts during the post-Soviet period. Special emphasis is placed on the politics of the transition to a democratic political system and a market economy. Other topics include nationality issues, social problems and foreign policy. Crosslisted as: INTL 354. | Russian and Eurasian Government and Politics | |
| or POLI 355 POLI 355. Asian Governments and Politics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A comparative analysis of the politics and governments of major Asian states, with a focus on Japan, China and India. Crosslisted as: INTL 355. | Asian Governments and Politics | |
| or POLI 356 POLI 356. African Government and Politics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. This course will introduce students to the basic outlines of government and politics in Africa. The course will consider such topics as colonialism, elitism, and nationalism and modernization strategies. Using the comparative approach, the course will primarily focus on West, East and Central Africa. Crosslisted as: AFAM 356/INTL 356. | African Government and Politics | |
| or POLI 358 POLI 358. Issues in Comparative Politics: ____. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated with a different topic for a maximum of six credits. Introduces concepts and theories used in the study of political systems. Topics include democratization and democratic governance, the role of the state, one-party and military regimes, revolution, and economic and political development. Crosslisted as: INTL 358. | Issues in Comparative Politics: ____ | |
| or POLI 360 POLI 360. China in Transition. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Traces how China is making the transition from a planned to market economy, and what implications this transition has on the political, social and urban landscape. Class discussions are grounded on a basic understanding of China's modern history and regional geography. Crosslisted as: INTL 480. | China in Transition | |
| or POLI 361 POLI 361. Issues in World Politics: ____. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated with a different topic for a maximum of six credits. An exploration of several significant issues in world politics. Topics may include peacekeeping and collective security, international economic competitiveness, global environmental politics as well as selected others. Topics will vary with current events and trends in the international arena. Crosslisted as: INTL 361. | Issues in World Politics: ____ | |
| or POLI 362 POLI 362. International Organizations and Institutions. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of the background development structure and operations of organizations and institutions such as the United Nations, the European Community and the Organization of American States. Crosslisted as: INTL 362. | International Organizations and Institutions | |
| or POLI 363 POLI 363. U.S. Foreign Policy. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. An analytical survey of processes and practices in the formulation of U.S. foreign policy, including an introduction to the goals, problems of implementation and current challenges faced by policy makers. Crosslisted as: INTL 363. | U.S. Foreign Policy | |
| or POLI 364 POLI 364. Vietnam. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. An analysis of the complete record of the conflict in Vietnam. The primary focus will be on the period of U.S. involvement. The course will examine closely how and why the U.S. became involved in Vietnam and what impact the Vietnam War has had on political institutions and behavior. In particular, the course will examine what impact the period of U.S. involvement has had upon U.S. foreign policy. The course also will consider additional topics including public opinion and the war, the relationship between the president and Congress in light of the war, and contemporary U.S. politics as a backlash against the political movements of the 1960s. Crosslisted as: INTL 364. | Vietnam | |
| or POLI 365 POLI 365. International Political Economy. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of both theoretical and current policy issues in international political economy. Theories to be covered include liberalism, mercantilism, Marxism, regionalism, world systems theory and others. Policy issues include differing styles of capitalism in the industrialized world, the political economy of development, the politics of international corporate alliances and others. Crosslisted as: INTL 365. | International Political Economy | |
| or POLI 366 POLI 366. Women and Global Politics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of women and global politics, providing both a feminist re-examination of traditional international-relations theories and a comparative analysis of the political, legal and economic status of the world's women. The impact of women on global political institutions such as the United Nations will be addressed as well as other feminist and grass roots means of taking political action. Crosslisted as: GSWS 366/INTL 368. | Women and Global Politics | |
| or POLI 367 POLI 367. Terrorism. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of the modern problem of terrorism with an emphasis on the political nature of terrorist acts. Examines the history of terrorism, domestically within the U.S. and internationally, the role of religion, the structures and operations of terrorist organizations, as well as counterterrorism policies and policy-making. Crosslisted as: HSEP 301. | Terrorism | |
| or POLI 380 POLI 380. Human Security. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of the key elements of human security: the positive and negative impacts of globalization, the rise and impact of civil violence within many nations, the dilemmas of the aid industry, the impact of non-state actors, and issues related to chronic poverty, food security and water security. | Human Security | |
| or POLI 381 POLI 381. The Politics of Genocide. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. An examination of genocide as a recurring social and political phenomenon. The course begins with a study of the Holocaust within the context of transnational dynamics including colonialism, antisemitism and racial theory. | The Politics of Genocide | |
| or POLI 382 POLI 382. Politics of Global Health. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered hybrid). 3 credits. A survey of the basic principles of international and comparative health, as well as the national and international institutional structures in place to address health challenges. It focuses on the political, economic, social and individual burdens of inadequate health for societies and the international community. | Politics of Global Health | |
| or POLI 383 POLI 383. The Middle East and North Africa in Transition. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. An examination of the political, social and economic aspects of the “new” Middle East and North Africa after what has come to be known as “The Arab Spring.” Topics addressed include a historical and geographical overview of the Arab world prior to the mass uprisings, an examination of the political and economic motivations for popular unrest in several Arab countries, the role of women and youth movements as well as social media in mass demonstrations that happened in several Arab countries, the wider regional and global impact of the uprisings, and an assessment of the Arab world today. | The Middle East and North Africa in Transition | |
| or POLI 384 POLI 384. International Law. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Covers the rules and practices of international law as a vehicle for exploring the relations among states, international organizations and individuals within the international system. | International Law | |
| or POLI 385 POLI 385. International Security. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Explores the theoretical and policy structures underlying international relations -- specifically international security relationships -- between and among nation-states. | International Security | |
| or POLI 386 POLI 386. Environmental Security. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Focuses on how the availability of natural resources affect human civilization and how political power artificially determines their accessibility. | Environmental Security | |
| or POLI 387 POLI 387. Politics of the European Union. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Exposes students to the history, institutions and policies of the European Union alongside key issues facing the EU and its member states. | Politics of the European Union | |
| or POLI 388 POLI 388. International Relations Theory. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Explores the international theoretical and policy structures underlying international relations and specifically how to make general explanations across world politics. It will provide a conceptual understanding of international relations theories, international politics, the role of logic and evidence in crafting explanations and, ultimately, how to square conflicting explanations of international systems. | International Relations Theory | |
| U.S. political science: | ||
| POLI 103 POLI 103. U.S. Government and Politics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. A study of American national government focusing on its underlying political ideas, constitutional basis, major institutions and their interaction in the determination of public policy. | U.S. Government and Politics (or equivalent) 4 | 3 |
| POLI 301 POLI 301. U.S. Parties and Elections. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. An overview of U.S. political parties and elections. Topics will include the history, organization and methods of U.S. political parties, presidential nominations and elections; Congressional elections. | U.S. Parties and Elections | 3 |
| or POLI 302 POLI 302. Politics of the Civil Rights Movement. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. The main objectives of the course are to introduce and examine the personalities and activities of the modern Civil Rights Movement. The course provides the historical background leading up to the peak years of the struggle for racial equality in America. It has special focus on the events of the 1960s and particularly their implication for the current state of U.S. Civil Rights. Crosslisted as: AFAM 302. | Politics of the Civil Rights Movement | |
| or POLI 304 POLI 304. Presidential Primaries. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Enrollment is restricted by permission of the instructor. The course explores the historical and political contexts of the U.S. presidential primary campaigning. It investigates how the primary process impacts the types of candidates who run for office, how it impacts the strategies those candidates adopt in the early stages of their campaigns versus later stages and how it impacts the ways candidates seek out money, media coverage and grassroots organizing in order to gain momentum in a primary campaign. | Presidential Primaries | |
| or POLI 305 POLI 305. Political Campaigns and Communication. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. An examination of political campaigns focusing on presidential elections. Analysis includes the study of electoral contexts, political mobilization, campaign organizational structures and strategies, campaign rhetoric, and the evolution of campaign-related technology such as polling and social media. | Political Campaigns and Communication | |
| or POLI 306 POLI 306. The Congress. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of the behavior of legislators and the structures and processes of legislative decision making in the U.S. Congress. Analysis will include both the internal and external environment of congressional policy making, and an assessment of the impact of congressional policy. | The Congress | |
| or POLI 307 POLI 307. Political Behavior. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Introduces students to the major theoretical approaches and empirical research in the field of mass political behavior, with a particular emphasis on how individuals develop their ideologies and party identifications, as well as how those and other factors shape political decisions. | Political Behavior | |
| or POLI 308 POLI 308. U.S. Presidency. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A political and institutional study of the chief executive, focusing especially on the presidential personality and relations with Congress, the bureaucracy, the courts and the shaping of domestic and foreign policy. | U.S. Presidency | |
| or POLI 309 POLI 309. Bureaucratic Politics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits.
An analysis of the nature of bureaucracy and bureaucratic phenomena in American governments; the role and involvement of the bureaucracy in politics and the policy-making process. Primary focus on theories and approaches to understanding the central role of bureaucracy in modern society and its use and abuse of power. | Bureaucratic Politics | |
| or POLI 310 POLI 310. Public Policy. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. An analytical survey of policy formulation and implementation in the United States, together with an examination of the impact of policy upon individuals and groups in American society. | Public Policy | |
| or POLI 311 POLI 311. Politics of the Environment. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. An exploration of the current controversy about environmental politics and the issues and crises it centers on. Special attention will be given to the constitutional, political and geographical factors in the development of environmental policy and the organized effort to deal with governmental actions and inaction and its impact on policy outcomes. Crosslisted as: ENVS 311. | Politics of the Environment | |
| or POLI 312 POLI 312. Media and Politics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Provides a general overview of how media influence political attitudes and political behavior. Students will analyze the role of new media, soft media and infotainment and how it mediates political messages to the general public. Students will also explore the effects of various types of communications on Americans' attitudes and behaviors, including the rise of "fake news," partisan media, mis- and disinformation, and fact-checking. | Media and Politics | |
| or POLI 313 POLI 313. U.S. Constitutional Law: Civil Rights and Civil Liberties. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of the major provisions of the U.S. Constitution concerning civil rights and civil liberties as interpreted by the U.S. Supreme Court. Topics to be covered include how the federal courts enforce individual rights found in the Constitution, limitations on governmental actions and the use of the Constitution as a starting point for discussions of the nation’s need to balance competing interests of individuals, government and societal values. | U.S. Constitutional Law: Civil Rights and Civil Liberties | |
| or POLI 314 POLI 314. U.S. Constitutional Law: Structure of Government. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of the development of the Constitution as it pertains to the structure of U.S. government. Topics to be covered include an introduction to the operation of the Supreme Court, separation of powers, decisions on federalism, the powers of Congress, the president, the judiciary and judicial review. | U.S. Constitutional Law: Structure of Government | |
| or POLI 315 POLI 315. Courts and Politics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of theories and models of judicial decision-making in the Supreme Court, focusing on judicial structure and procedures, policy-making analysis, political ideology, and judicial activism. | Courts and Politics | |
| or POLI 316 POLI 316. Women and the Law. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. This course will introduce students to the history, politics and status of women under the American legal system. Topics to be covered may include equal protection, sexual violence, the particular rights of women of color and lesbians, reproductive rights of women of color and lesbians, reproductive rights, women criminals and women in the legal profession. Crosslisted as: GSWS 316. | Women and the Law | |
| or POLI 318 POLI 318. Politics of Race, Class and Gender. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of the racial, class and gender influences on the history and development of political values, conflicts, processes, structures and public policy in the United States. Crosslisted as: AFAM 318/GSWS 318. | Politics of Race, Class and Gender | |
| or POLI 319 POLI 319. Women and American Politics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. This course analyzes the participation of women in American politics. Attention is given to both women's historical and contemporary roles in politics, their participation as voters and citizens, and their behavior as candidates and office holders. Additional topics may include workplace, family and education issues and reproductive rights. Crosslisted as: GSWS 319. | Women and American Politics | |
| or POLI 321 POLI 321. Urban Politics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. An examination of urban political power and influence, governance, and public policy. Topics include: power and influence, governmental structures and the political process, public policy, and service delivery. | Urban Politics | |
| or POLI 322 POLI 322. State and Local Government and Politics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. An examination of the politics and governance of states and localities. Attention is devoted to political culture, interest groups, political parties, the legislative, executive and judicial components of state government, along with the structure and political processes of local governments. | State and Local Government and Politics | |
| or POLI 323 POLI 323. Virginia Government and Politics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. An examination of Virginia state government and politics, with appropriate attention given to political culture, interest groups, political parties, the media and the legislative, executive and judicial branches of government. | Virginia Government and Politics | |
| or POLI 330 POLI 330. Lobbying. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Provides students with a practical overview of lobbying in the U.S. system, including its historical context; how different types of groups use lobbying as a tactic to influence government; and regulations and ethical considerations. Students will have a working knowledge of the American lobbying industry; the types of groups that employ lobbying as a political strategy to attain their organizational goals; and how money is used within the American system. | Lobbying | |
| or POLI 331 POLI 331. Public Administration. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of the concepts and practices of public administration in the United States. Particular attention will be given to the administrative procedures and practices of the national government and of the government in Virginia. | Public Administration | |
| or POLI 332 POLI 332. Administrative Law. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Survey of the major functions of the modern administrative state as interpreted by the U.S. Supreme Court. Topics to be covered include the constitutional and legal authority of bureaucratic agencies, rulemaking and adjudication, and judicial review of agency action. Emphasizes the tensions found in the administrative process, how administrators try to address them while performing their jobs and how the environment surrounding administrative behavior affects administrators trying to do their work. | Administrative Law | |
| or POLI 339 POLI 339. Politics in Film. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Addresses how political ideas and concepts are created and propagated in film. Views the film industry as a critically important agent of political socialization. | Politics in Film | |
| or POLI 341 POLI 341. Classical to Modern Political Thought. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of leading political ideas of the ancient and medieval periods. This course is intended to introduce students to the fundamental concepts and questions of political theory and to engage students with the works of a number of ancient and medieval political philosophers. | Classical to Modern Political Thought | |
| or POLI 342 POLI 342. Modern to Contemporary Political Thought. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of leading political ideas of modern and contemporary thought. This course is intended to introduce students to the fundamental concepts and questions of political theory and to acquaint students with the works of several modern political philosophers. | Modern to Contemporary Political Thought | |
| or POLI 343 POLI 343. Black Political Thought. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. An historical and sociological perspective on the political and social ideas of black thinkers from David Walker to the present. Crosslisted as: AFAM 343. | Black Political Thought | |
| or POLI 344 POLI 344. Contemporary Political Theory. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. This course provides a survey of recent trends in political theory. It examines updates of the major ideological traditions, arguments about the nature of modernity and recent developments in environment, feminist and non-Western thought. | Contemporary Political Theory | |
| or POLI 345 POLI 345. African-American Politics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. In this course, students will discuss and analyze the dynamics of the black experience in the American political system. The status of African-Americans in the United States and the struggle for racial equality will be examined, as will the manner in which American institutions have responded to these phenomena. Students will examine the race/class metric in African-American politics, particularly policies of Affirmative Action as a black progress strategy. Crosslisted as: AFAM 345. | African-American Politics | |
| or POLI 346 POLI 346. Black Political Activism. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Introduces students to the long history of Black political activism in the United States, focusing on racial justice and anti-racist movements. Utilizes historical, social scientific and legal frameworks. | Black Political Activism | |
| or POLI 347 POLI 347. Black Queer Politics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credit hours. Examines the history, key issues and contemporary scholarship of Black queer politics. Focuses on themes of justice, equity, gender, sexuality and race. | Black Queer Politics | |
| or POLI 369 POLI 369. U.S. National Security. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of key issues in U.S. national security including national security decision-making, the use of force, military intervention, nuclear strategy and strategic arms control, ballistic missile defense, the transformation of war due to technology and globalization, defense policy, planning and budgeting, the impact of technology on strategy from airpower to cyberspace and robotics, and critical regional issues. | U.S. National Security | |
| History/double major | ||
| HIST 300 HIST 300. Introduction to Historical Study. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Enrollment is restricted to history majors. This introduction to the historical discipline is required of all history majors, who must earn a minimum grade of C to complete the major requirements. The course emphasizes historical research, writing and study skills in order to increase student appreciation of, and performance in, advanced courses within the history major. | Introduction to Historical Study | 3 |
| HIST 490 HIST 490. Senior Seminar in History. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated for a maximum of 9 credits. Prerequisite: HIST 300 with a minimum grade of C. Research and analysis of a selected historical topic in a seminar setting. See the Schedule of Classes for each semester's offerings. | Senior Seminar in History | 3 |
| or HIST 493 HIST 493. Internship. 2-4 Hours.
Semester course; 2-4 hours; 2-4 credits. May be repeated for a maximum total of 6 credits. Prerequisite: HIST 300 with a minimum grade of C. Enrollment generally open to students with senior standing. Students receive credit for work on historical projects with approved agencies. Determination of the amount of credit and permission of departmental internship coordinator must be procured prior to registration for the course. | Internship | |
| Historical survey courses (100-level HIST) | 12 | |
| Junior seminar course (select from HIST 401 HIST 401. Studies in Ancient History: ____. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated once, with a different topic, for credit. Prerequisite: HIST 300 or permission of instructor. Courses taught under this heading provide advanced study and analysis of the theory and field of ancient history. HIST 422. Studies in Public History: ____. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated with different thematic content for a maximum of six credits. Prerequisites: HIST 300 with a minimum grade of C; and HIST 323. Studies in a selected topic, method, approach or issue in history which is produced for, by and/or with the public, outside of the classroom context. Includes the historical content and relevant analytical skills needed to examine the specific course theme. | 3 | |
| Additional upper-level HIST courses (HIST 301 HIST 301. The Ancient Near East. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of the ancient Near Eastern civilizations from the preliterary period to the end of Kassite rule in Babylonia (c. 1160 B.C.). Crosslisted as: RELS 315. HIST 492. Independent Study. 2-4 Hours.
Semester course; variable hours. 2-4 credits per semester. Maximum total of 6 credits. Open generally to students of only junior and senior standing who have acquired 12 credits in the departmental disciplines. Determination of the amount of credit and permission of instructor and department chair must be procured prior to registration of the course. HIST 490. Senior Seminar in History. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated for a maximum of 9 credits. Prerequisite: HIST 300 with a minimum grade of C. Research and analysis of a selected historical topic in a seminar setting. See the Schedule of Classes for each semester's offerings. | 6 | |
| Open electives | 8-14 | |
| B.S.Ed. open electives will be fufilled by double major/endorsement courses. | ||
| Total Hours | 120 | |
Credits earned satisfy upper-level HIST courses.
ECON 203 ECON 203. Introduction to Economics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. A survey of economic principles, institutions and problems. The course is designed to provide basic economic understanding for students who do not expect to major in economics or in the School of Business. Not applicable for credit toward economics and business majors. Students may receive credit toward graduation for only one of the following three courses: ECON 203, ECON 205 or ECON 210. ECON 210. Principles of Microeconomics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. A course designed to acquaint the student with a theoretical and practical understanding of the economic institutions and problems of the American economy with a focus on microeconomics. Students may receive credit toward graduation for only one of the following three courses: ECON 203, ECON 205 or ECON 210.
POLI 105 POLI 105. International Relations. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. An introductory analysis of interstate relations and world affairs. Attention focuses on theories of international politics, military capabilities and their application, international organizations, global economic trends, domestic sources of state behavior and other selected issues as appropriate. Crosslisted as: INTL 105.
Satisfies general education BOK for social/behavioral sciences and AOI for diversities in the human experience.
The minimum number of credit hours required for this degree is 120.
What follows is a sample plan that meets the prescribed requirements within a four-year course of study at VCU. Please contact your adviser before beginning course work toward a degree.
Recommended course sequence/plan of study
| Freshman year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall semester | Hours | |
| POLI 103 POLI 103. U.S. Government and Politics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. A study of American national government focusing on its underlying political ideas, constitutional basis, major institutions and their interaction in the determination of public policy. | U.S. Government and Politics (satisfies BOK for social/behavioral sciences and AOI for diversities in the human experience) | 3 |
| UNIV 111 UNIV 111. Focused Inquiry I. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. Utilizes contemporary themes to give students opportunities and practice in writing, critical thinking, oral presentation, collaborative learning, information retrieval and evaluation, and social and civic responsibilities. Incorporates common reading materials and course activities across all sections.  Play course video for Introduction to Focused Inquiry: Investigation and Communication | Introduction to Focused Inquiry: Investigation and Communication (satisfies general education UNIV foundations) | 3 |
| Additional requirements waived for students who double major in history and secondary education (HUMS 202 HUMS 202. Choices in a Consumer Society. 1 Hour.
Semester course; 1 lecture hour (delivered online). 1 credit. Corequisite: UNIV 111 or UNIV 112. Provides a framework for understanding the nature of choices made in a consumer society, with an emphasis on the financial consequences of those choices. Students will gain the practical knowledge needed to make informed personal financial decisions as they address immediate, short-term and long-term consumer choices. Administered primarily as a self-paced, computer-aided instructional course. | ||
| General education course (select from quantitative foundations) | 3 | |
| General education course (select any AOI) | 3 | |
| Historical survey course (select from HIST 101 HIST 101. Survey of European History. 3 Hours.
Semester courses; 3 lecture hours. 3, 3 credits. A survey of European civilization from the ancient world to the present, emphasizing the events, ideas and institutions that have shaped, influenced and defined Europe's place in the world. First semester: to 16th century. Second semester: 16th century to the present. HIST 112. Survey of the Middle East II. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of the history of the Middle East from 16th century to the present emphasizing the events, historical agents, ideas and institutions that have dynamically shaped the Middle East and its place in the world. | 3 | |
| Term Hours: | 15 | |
| Spring semester | ||
| ECON 203 ECON 203. Introduction to Economics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. A survey of economic principles, institutions and problems. The course is designed to provide basic economic understanding for students who do not expect to major in economics or in the School of Business. Not applicable for credit toward economics and business majors. Students may receive credit toward graduation for only one of the following three courses: ECON 203, ECON 205 or ECON 210. or ECON 210 ECON 210. Principles of Microeconomics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. A course designed to acquaint the student with a theoretical and practical understanding of the economic institutions and problems of the American economy with a focus on microeconomics. Students may receive credit toward graduation for only one of the following three courses: ECON 203, ECON 205 or ECON 210. or ECON 211 ECON 211. Principles of Macroeconomics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. Prerequisite: ECON 203 with a minimum grade of B, ECON 205 with a minimum grade of B or ECON 210. A course designed to acquaint the student with a theoretical and practical understanding of the economic institutions and problems of the American economy with a focus on macroeconomics. | Introduction to Economics (ECON 203 ECON 203. Introduction to Economics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. A survey of economic principles, institutions and problems. The course is designed to provide basic economic understanding for students who do not expect to major in economics or in the School of Business. Not applicable for credit toward economics and business majors. Students may receive credit toward graduation for only one of the following three courses: ECON 203, ECON 205 or ECON 210. ECON 210. Principles of Microeconomics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. A course designed to acquaint the student with a theoretical and practical understanding of the economic institutions and problems of the American economy with a focus on microeconomics. Students may receive credit toward graduation for only one of the following three courses: ECON 203, ECON 205 or ECON 210. or Principles of Microeconomics or Principles of Macroeconomics | 3 |
| EDUS 202 EDUS 202. Diversity, Democracy and Ethics. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. This course engages students in critical exploration of public education in the United States within sociocultural, historical and philosophical contexts. It examines the relationships between an increasingly diverse society and education in a democracy. Students will be taught the ethical obligations of educational professionals and how to become active agents for democratic, equity-oriented schools. In addition, the course will explore legal and policy aspects of education. | Diversity, Democracy and Ethics | 3 |
| UNIV 112 UNIV 112. Focused Inquiry II. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. Prerequisite: UNIV 111 or equivalent. Builds on skills introduced in UNIV 111 by providing practice in expository essays, argument and contextual analysis. Focuses on practice in writing in a variety of genres, framing writing according to both purpose and audience and identifying academically valid sources. Students must earn a minimum grade of C to receive credit for this course. Play course video for Focused Inquiry II | Focused Inquiry II (satisfies general education UNIV foundations) | 3 |
| Additional requirements waived for students who double major in history and secondary education (HUMS 202 HUMS 202. Choices in a Consumer Society. 1 Hour.
Semester course; 1 lecture hour (delivered online). 1 credit. Corequisite: UNIV 111 or UNIV 112. Provides a framework for understanding the nature of choices made in a consumer society, with an emphasis on the financial consequences of those choices. Students will gain the practical knowledge needed to make informed personal financial decisions as they address immediate, short-term and long-term consumer choices. Administered primarily as a self-paced, computer-aided instructional course. | ||
| General education course (select BOK for natural sciences and AOI for scientific and logical reasoning) | 3 | |
| Historical survey course (select from HIST 101 HIST 101. Survey of European History. 3 Hours.
Semester courses; 3 lecture hours. 3, 3 credits. A survey of European civilization from the ancient world to the present, emphasizing the events, ideas and institutions that have shaped, influenced and defined Europe's place in the world. First semester: to 16th century. Second semester: 16th century to the present. HIST 112. Survey of the Middle East II. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of the history of the Middle East from 16th century to the present emphasizing the events, historical agents, ideas and institutions that have dynamically shaped the Middle East and its place in the world. | 3 | |
| Term Hours: | 15 | |
| Sophomore year | ||
| Fall semester | ||
| UNIV 200 UNIV 200. Advanced Focused Inquiry: Literacies, Research and Communication. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. Prerequisite: UNIV 112 or HONR 250 with a minimum grade of C. Asks students to consider real-world applications of writing and research. Students will develop critical analysis, inquiry-based research skills, communication of argument and research across media. Work represents the culmination of foundational ConnectED competencies developed in UNIV 111 and UNIV 112. Students must earn a minimum grade of C to receive credit for this course. | Advanced Focused Inquiry: Literacies, Research and Communication (satisfies general education UNIV foundations) | 3 |
| General education course (select AOI for global perspectives) | 3 | |
| General education course (select BOK for humanities/fine arts and AOI for creativity, innovation and aesthetic inquiry) | 3 | |
| Historical survey course (select from HIST 101 HIST 101. Survey of European History. 3 Hours.
Semester courses; 3 lecture hours. 3, 3 credits. A survey of European civilization from the ancient world to the present, emphasizing the events, ideas and institutions that have shaped, influenced and defined Europe's place in the world. First semester: to 16th century. Second semester: 16th century to the present. HIST 112. Survey of the Middle East II. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of the history of the Middle East from 16th century to the present emphasizing the events, historical agents, ideas and institutions that have dynamically shaped the Middle East and its place in the world. | 3 | |
| International political science course (refer to list in degree requirements table)(POLI 105 POLI 105. International Relations. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. An introductory analysis of interstate relations and world affairs. Attention focuses on theories of international politics, military capabilities and their application, international organizations, global economic trends, domestic sources of state behavior and other selected issues as appropriate. Crosslisted as: INTL 105. | 3 | |
| Term Hours: | 15 | |
| Spring semester | ||
| EDUS 301 EDUS 301. Human Development and Learning. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. A study of human development through the life span with special emphasis on child and adolescent psychology, the nature of learning and basic concepts of learning theories. | Human Development and Learning | 3 |
| HIST 300 HIST 300. Introduction to Historical Study. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. Enrollment is restricted to history majors. This introduction to the historical discipline is required of all history majors, who must earn a minimum grade of C to complete the major requirements. The course emphasizes historical research, writing and study skills in order to increase student appreciation of, and performance in, advanced courses within the history major. | Introduction to Historical Study | 3 |
| General education course (select any AOI) | 3 | |
| Historical survey course (select from HIST 101 HIST 101. Survey of European History. 3 Hours.
Semester courses; 3 lecture hours. 3, 3 credits. A survey of European civilization from the ancient world to the present, emphasizing the events, ideas and institutions that have shaped, influenced and defined Europe's place in the world. First semester: to 16th century. Second semester: 16th century to the present. HIST 112. Survey of the Middle East II. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A survey of the history of the Middle East from 16th century to the present emphasizing the events, historical agents, ideas and institutions that have dynamically shaped the Middle East and its place in the world. | 3 | |
| U.S. political science course (refer to list in degree requirements table) | 3 | |
| Term Hours: | 15 | |
| Junior year | ||
| Fall semester | ||
| TEDU 562 TEDU 562. Reading Instruction in the Content Areas. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. Prepares teachers to apply skills and methods of reading instruction to content areas in elementary, middle and secondary school curricula. Includes theoretical bases and methodology for incorporating reading skills and strategies within content areas of instruction. | Reading Instruction in the Content Areas | 3 |
| Geography course (refer to list in degree requirements table)(satisfies an upper-level HIST course) | 3 | |
| Upper-level HIST course (select any 300-level) | 3 | |
| Open electives | 6 | |
| Term Hours: | 15 | |
| Spring semester | ||
| SEDP 405 SEDP 405. Collaborative Practices to Support Inclusion for Children and Youth with Disabilities. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. This course is designed to help prospective educators, early interventionists and clinicians develop an understanding of collaborative and communication strategies, models and techniques to meet needs of children with disabilities. Skills in consultation, case management and collaboration, including coordination of service delivery with related services providers, administrators, parents, students and other professionals (e.g., paraprofessionals, community agencies) in collaborative work environments will be emphasized. Students will learn essential teamwork skills, reflect on the application of those skills and practice a variety of instructional and organizational techniques for adapting inclusive environments to address the needs of children with disabilities. | Collaborative Practices to Support Inclusion for Children and Youth with Disabilities | 3 |
| TEDU 311 TEDU 311. Middle School Practicum. 2 Hours.
Semester course; 2 lecture hours. 2 credits. Corequisite: TEDU 537. Restricted to students admitted to the Extended Teacher Preparation Program. A field placement that precedes student teaching/internship. Includes planned observations, tutorials and small-group involvement. Graded pass/fail. | Middle School Practicum | 2 |
| TEDU 510 TEDU 510. Instructional Technology in PK-12 Environments. 2 Hours.
Semester course; 2 lecture hours (delivered online). 2 credits. Prerequisite: EDUS 301, PSYC 301 or PSYC 304 with a minimum grade of C. An introduction to effectively integrating technology into pK-12 instruction to improve student learning outcomes. Students will have hands-on experiences with a variety of current instructional technologies and learn how to integrate these technologies into their practice using research-driven theoretical frameworks. This online course models effective virtual teaching methods that can be utilized in hybrid and fully online environments. Students will design technology-rich instructional modules that can be utilized to improve student learning in their content areas, as well as develop personal learning networks that will continue to provide them with informal and independent learning opportunities well after the conclusion of the course. | Instructional Technology in PK-12 Environments | 2 |
| TEDU 588 TEDU 588. Classroom Management. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. Designed to assist teachers in becoming effective classroom managers. Emphasis on application of classroom management, motivational and instructional theories. Models of classroom management explored; personal management plans developed. | Classroom Management | 3 |
| Geography course (refer to list in degree requirements table)(satisfies an upper-level HIST course) | 3 | |
| Junior seminar course (select from HIST 401 HIST 401. Studies in Ancient History: ____. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated once, with a different topic, for credit. Prerequisite: HIST 300 or permission of instructor. Courses taught under this heading provide advanced study and analysis of the theory and field of ancient history. HIST 422. Studies in Public History: ____. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated with different thematic content for a maximum of six credits. Prerequisites: HIST 300 with a minimum grade of C; and HIST 323. Studies in a selected topic, method, approach or issue in history which is produced for, by and/or with the public, outside of the classroom context. Includes the historical content and relevant analytical skills needed to examine the specific course theme. | 3 | |
| Term Hours: | 16 | |
| Senior year | ||
| Fall semester | ||
| HIST 361 HIST 361. Americans from Africa. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. A study of the history and culture of blacks in the United States, designed to analyze some of the most important aspects of black life and the attitudes of the dominant society within which blacks lived. The second semester emphasizes the changing status, expectations and ideologies of black Americans in the 20th century. First semester: to 1877. Second semester: since 1877. Crosslisted as: AFAM 361. | Americans from Africa (satisfies an upper-level HIST course) | 3 |
| HIST 490 HIST 490. Senior Seminar in History. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. May be repeated for a maximum of 9 credits. Prerequisite: HIST 300 with a minimum grade of C. Research and analysis of a selected historical topic in a seminar setting. See the Schedule of Classes for each semester's offerings. or HIST 493 HIST 493. Internship. 2-4 Hours.
Semester course; 2-4 hours; 2-4 credits. May be repeated for a maximum total of 6 credits. Prerequisite: HIST 300 with a minimum grade of C. Enrollment generally open to students with senior standing. Students receive credit for work on historical projects with approved agencies. Determination of the amount of credit and permission of departmental internship coordinator must be procured prior to registration for the course. | Senior Seminar in History or Internship | 3 |
| TEDU 312 TEDU 312. High School Practicum. 1 Hour.
Semester course; 1 lecture hour. 1 credit. Pre- or corequisite: TEDU 311; corequisite: TEDU 540, 545, 547 or 548. Restricted to students admitted to the M.T. program with concentrations in secondary education. A field placement that precedes student teaching/internship. Includes planned observations, tutorials and small-group involvement. Course graded as pass/fail. | High School Practicum | 1 |
| TEDU 547 TEDU 547. Teaching Secondary School Social Studies. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 3 credits. Examines demands involved in secondary social studies instruction; preparatory approaches to using academic and professional insights in confronting the demands; formulating and implementing appropriate methodological approaches. | Teaching Secondary School Social Studies | 3 |
| Upper-level HIST course (select any 300- or 400-level) | 3 | |
| Open elective | 2 | |
| Term Hours: | 15 | |
| Spring semester | ||
| SEDP 452 SEDP 452. Supporting Multilingual Learners With Disabilities. 1 Hour.
Semester course; 1 lecture hour (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 1 credit. Corequisite: TEDU 452. This course focuses on instruction for multilingual learners who have disabilities. Teacher candidates will learn how these intersectional identities can impact students and will emphasize how to combine asset-based, culturally sustaining instruction for multilingual learners with evidence-based practice for children and youth with disabilities. | Supporting Multilingual Learners With Disabilities | 1 |
| TEDU 412 TEDU 412. Curriculum and Assessment: ____. 3 Hours.
Semester course; 3 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid) 3 credits. Corequisites: TEDU 469 and TEDU 470. The course examines contemporary approaches to secondary education with an integrated focus on assessment, curriculum design and inclusive teaching practices. Students will explore the background and objectives of modern secondary education while developing expertise in assessment literacy and instructional planning that addresses diverse learning needs, including those of students with disabilities and multilingual students. Students must contact their adviser for information regarding which section to register for based on their program. | Curriculum and Assessment: ____ | 3 |
| TEDU 452 TEDU 452. Teaching Multilingual Learners. 2 Hours.
Semester course; 2 lecture hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 2 credits. Prerequisite: TEDU 413 or SEDP 405. This course is designed to help teachers who plan to teach English and other content areas to PK-12 students who are speakers of other languages. The course includes attention to social and cultural contexts, the diversity of multilingual learners in the United States, legal and policy contexts, models of ESL programs and advocacy for students. Students will also develop skills in lesson preparation and delivery for multilingual learners within ESL classrooms as well as in other content area classrooms. | Teaching Multilingual Learners | 2 |
| TEDU 469 TEDU 469. Secondary Internship I. 4 Hours.
Semester course; 4 practicum hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid). 4 credits. The internship serves as the teacher candidate’s culminating clinical experience. It provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned during their professional academic preparation. In addition, it serves as an opportunity for public school and VCU personnel to evaluate and strengthen a teacher candidate's application of theory to practice in a secondary classroom. Teacher candidates complete a full-time seven to eight week placement in a secondary classroom. | Secondary Internship I | 4 |
| TEDU 470 TEDU 470. Secondary Internship II. 4 Hours.
Semester course; 4 practicum hours (delivered online, face-to-face or hybrid) 4 credits. The internship serves as the teacher candidate’s culminating clinical experience. It provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned during their professional academic preparation. In addition it serves as an opportunity for public school and VCU personnel to evaluate and strengthen a teacher candidate's application of theory to practice in a secondary classroom. Teacher candidates complete a second full-time seven to eight week placement in a secondary classroom. | Secondary Internship II | 4 |
| Term Hours: | 14 | |
| Total Hours: | 120 | |
The minimum number of credit hours required for this degree is 120.
The VCU Bulletin is the official source for academic course and program information.
The School of Education (SOE) degree programs that lead to professional licensure are designed to prepare students to meet the requirements for professional licensure in the Commonwealth of Virginia as outlined by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE). The SOE has determined that the curriculum includes applicable educational prerequisites for the following professional licensure(s) and/or certification(s) as outlined on this page of our website.