History Department

Why Choose History at TMCC?

It is imperative in today's global economy for you to understand the history of your community, state, nation and the world. Through the study of history, you will develop an appreciation of the contributions made by all nations as the humanities are integrated with political science, economics and geography. Knowledge of your roots and a sense of your place in humanity allow you to have the fullest sense of self and shared community on which both personal development and responsible citizenship depend.

Knowledge of history is required if you wish to have political intelligence. Without history, individuals share no common memory of where they have been, what their core values are, or what decisions of the past account for present circumstances. Without history, you cannot undertake any sensible inquiry into the political, economic or social issues of today. Historical knowledge and inquiry contribute to the skills necessary to be informed citizens, who function effectively in the democratic process of a diverse society.

Benefits to studying History at TMCC include:

• The TMCC History degree can be completed 100% online if you prefer the flexibility of online learning
• Courses are offered online and in person with a variety of schedule options to meet your needs
• Small class sizes ensure that you can get individual help and attention when you need it
• The History degree is designed as a transfer degree so that you can complete your first two years at TMCC and your bachelor’s degree at UNR or another four-year institution of your choice

What Will I Study?

Courses range from introductory survey courses in American, European and Nevada history, to special topics in history such as the History of U.S. Involvement in Vietnam, the History of the Civil War, Mexican History, Gender and History, and African American History. The History degree combines a well-rounded general education curriculum, a solid foundation in history, additional special topic history course options to choose from so you can focus on areas of interest to you, as well as the opportunity to choose electives to round out your liberal arts degree.

Our department offers courses at the 100 and 200 levels. All of TMCC's 100-level courses (also History 217) are identical to those courses offered at the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) and will transfer to UNR. Generally, you will take classes such as History 101 and History 102 as a freshman. The 200-level courses are generally taken as a sophomore. UNR has approved some of TMCC's 200-level courses to satisfy UNR's diversity requirement; for example, TMCC's gender and history course and African American history courses will satisfy this requirement.

We highly recommend that you take history courses in chronological order although it is not required. Taking history courses in order helps you to better understand the development and evolution of human societies. For example, it would be difficult to fully comprehend the 20th century civil rights movement in the United States without an understanding of the institution of slavery.

As a History student, you should take a realistic look at your time before signing up for a course so that you don't over-schedule your time. History students spend at least two hours outside of class for every hour spent in class because History requires a large amount of reading and thinking about class materials. Be honest about your reading and writing skills, and seek help if your skills are lacking in these areas. There are great support services available at the Tutoring and Learning Center. You can receive free, one-on-one tutoring for several history courses, and you can develop the writing skills that will help you succeed in your TMCC History courses.

Through the study of history, we can better understand and appreciate the world’s peoples and their cultures, learn about our past – our mistakes and successes, focus on shared interests, and work together for a better future. We have right here at TMCC some of the most outstanding history professors I could imagine anywhere, from personal enrichment course instruction to preparation for transfer to a four-year institution. They are passionate, caring, and accessible. Through their guidance, I have learned to think critically about the past and to write as objectively as possible about historical topics that have relevance and importance in today’s world.

Mark E., TMCC History Major

Career Paths

Historians can have many backgrounds, ranging from economic historians to those who study the historical contexts of environmental change. Historians may also specialize in social, political, intellectual, diplomatic and cultural experiences. Career paths can vary by areas of your interest but may include:

• Educator (elementary, secondary, higher education)
• Public policy worker
• Regional planning specialist
• Special interest advocate
• Historical preservationist
• Museum curator
• Historical association manager
• Cultural heritage researcher
• Archivist
• Records administrator

You May Also Be Interested In

• Anthropology
• Economics
• Political Science