Welcome to the History Department
Understanding history is key to understanding important events and issues in the world today. The De Anza College History Department offers a variety of interesting courses that can lead to an A.A.-T. degree and help fulfill General Education and transfer requirements. These courses include
- U.S. History
- World History
- Western Civilization
- African American History
- African History
- Asian History
- California History
- Latin American History
- Women's History
Asian History class to be offered in Winter Quarter 2025:
Careers for History Majors
A history degree can prepare students for many different careers in areas such as law, journalism, business and teaching, as well as government service, museum work, filmmaking and nonprofit organizations. Please see our Careers in History page.
History A.A.-T. Degree
The history department offers the Associate in Arts for Transfer (A.A.-T.) degree in history. Please see our Degree Requirements webpage to learn more.
Courses and Transfer Requirements
For more information about the the range of history courses offered by our dedicated faculty members, who have expertise and research interests in a wide variety of subjects, please visit our Course Information page and our Faculty Directory.
To see which General Education requirements and transfer requirements are fulfilled by various history courses, please see our Degrees page, and scroll down on that page.
U.S. history courses at De Anza College may possibly be counted for both a General Education requirement and a graduation requirement in American history at the CSU and the UC. Please check with the institutions to which you plan to transfer for more details about eligible courses as well as the requirements which you may need to fulfill, and also see the Degree Requirements page.
Please check the college's posted schedule each quarter for the days and times that these courses are being offered.
The Importance of History
The field of history explores how diverse cultures and civilizations have changed profoundly over time. It also illustrates the many significant ways in which the past continues to impact the present.
History reveals, as well, the struggles of people in various times and places who have tried "to make their own history." Learning about such historical events and ideas can provide a deeper and richer understanding of our own lives, the larger world, and the values and institutions which are important to maintaining a democratic society.
The knowledge and skills acquired in studying history -- thinking critically, evaluating evidence, and writing with force and clarity -- can prepare students for careers in many different fields.
- For more information about careers for history majors and for a list of historical organizations focused on specific fields of study and diverse groups, please see our Careers in History page.
- For a list of museums, archives, and helpful study tools, please visit our Historical Resources page.
Resources for Students
