History and Political Science

The History and Political Science degree program offers a unique opportunity to understand the past while shaping the future, blending the study of historical events with the analysis of political systems.

You will explore how societies have evolved, how governments function and how power and policies impact the world today.

Because of the college’s proximity to the state capital and the rich history of the Capital Region, opportunities for internships within New York State government and related organizations are available for students who wish to pursue them.

As part of the SUNY Transfer Path, this degree is especially ideal for those interested in pursuing a baccalaureate degree in history or political science at a SUNY four-year college or university.

Students will work closely with academic advisors to select courses that align with their field of study to obtain junior in their chosen transfer program.

This program is offered by the Education and Social Sciences Department.

Program Learning Outcomes

Program Requirements

Program Entrance Requirements

Courses
Algebra and Geometry or 2 units of equivalent academic math and 1 unit of any lab science (70 or above in each course)

Entry Term
Fall and Spring

Special Notes
Strongly recommend Algebra II, Biology, Chemistry and physics. Courses of study in: behavioral and social sciences, foreign studies, journalism, political science and other specialized areas.

High School Average
70 or above

Major Requirements*

Total Credits Required: 61

*or specific course equivalents as approved by the department chairperson.
** Required of first time full-time students.

FORM 102 College Forum Credits: (1) **

ENGL 101 English Composition I Credits: 3

ENGL 102 English Composition II Credits: 3
OR
ENGL 104 English Composition II: Writing About Literature Credits: 3

ENGL 115 Library Skills for Research Credits: 1

HIST 100 Western Civilization and The World I Credits: 3
OR
HIST 101 Western Civilization and The World II Credits: 3

HIST 110 Interpretations of American History I Credits: 3
OR
HIST 111 Interpretations of American History II Credits: 3

POLS 105 American National Government Credits: 3

(1) Mathematics Elective Credits: 3
(2) Fine Arts Elective Credits: 3
(3) Humanities Elective Credits: 3
(4) Laboratory Science Elective Credits: 3
(5) World Language elective Credits: 3
(6) English Electives Credits: 6
(7) Mathematics OR Science Elective Credits: 3
(8) DEISJ Elective Credits: 3
(9) Health OR Physical Education Electives Credits: 2
(10) History or Political Science Focus Credits:16

(1) Mathematics Elective Credits: 3
Course must be designated as both "SUNY General Education Mathematics" and "HVCC Liberal Arts and Sciences Mathematics" course.

(2) Arts Elective Credits: 3
Course must be designated as both "SUNY General Education Arts" and "HVCC Liberal Arts and Sciences Humanities" course.

(3) Humanities Elective Credits: 3
Course must be designated as both "SUNY General Education Humanities" and "HVCC Liberal Arts and Sciences Humanities" course.

(4) Laboratory Science Elective Credits: 3
Course must be designated as both "SUNY General Education Natural Science" laboratory and "HVCC Liberal Arts and Sciences Science" course.

(5) World Language Elective Credits: 3
Courses must be designated as both "SUNY General Education World Language" and "HVCC Liberal Arts and Sciences Humanities" course.

(6) English Electives Credits: 6

ENGL 120 Communication Credits: 3
ENGL 125 Public Speaking Credits: 3
ENGL 126 Honors Public Speaking Credits: 3
ENGL 130 Journalism Credits: 3
ENGL 136 Media and Culture Credits: 3
ENGL 137 Writing for The Media Credits: 3
ENGL 151 Creative Writing: Short Fiction Credits: 3
ENGL 152 Creative Writing: Poetry and Song Credits: 3
ENGL 153 Creative Writing: Stage and Screen Credits: 3
ENGL 154 Creative Writing: Non-Fiction Credits: 3
ENGL 156 Creative Writing Workshop Credits: 3
ENGL 200 English Literature I Credits: 3

(7) Mathematics OR Science Elective Credits: 3
Course must be designated as either "HVCC Liberal Arts and Sciences Mathematics or Science" course.

(8) Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Social Justice Elective Credits: 3
Course must be designated as a SUNY-GER "Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Social Justice (DEISJ)" and either a "HVCC Liberal Arts and Sciences, Humanities or Social Sciences" course.

(9) Health or Physical Education Elective Credits: 2
Course(s) must be HLTH or PHED course.

(10) Focus courses Credits: 16
Depending on student's transfer goals, they choose the history or political science focus.

History Focus - Credits: 16

HIST 202 Modern Global History Credits: 3
OR
History Survey in another world region or country. HIST 120, HIST 121, HIST 140, HIST 145, or HIST 150.
Electives as advised. Credits: 13
Recommended courses include additional History courses including HIST 290 internship, ECON 100, ECON 101, or ANTH 100.

Political Science Focus - Credits: 16

POLS 101 Introduction to International Politics Credits: 3
POLS 102 Introduction to Political Theory Credits: 3
Additional Electives as advised. Credits: 10
Recommended courses include additional political science courses, ECON 100, ECON 101, CRJS 110, CRJS 210, and SOCL 100.

Anthony Cervera, Alex Jambunathan and Tommy White on stairs at Legislative Office Building in Albany

Trio Gain Valuable Experience as NYS Assembly Interns

Three Hudson Valley Community College students are getting a front-row seat to state politics through prestigious internships at the New York State Assembly.

NOTE: Additional educational requirements and/or certifications may be needed for some careers.

Student in graduation attire in the classroom

Transfer and Career Services and Resources

The Center for Careers and Transfer provides career resources and services and help in identifying your skills and interests and how they connect to career possibilities. Transfer counseling services are also available and a list of transfer agreements are posted.

$Gabriela Paix\u00E3o e Kelly sitting on a bench on campus$