A few days ago
Jeff W

Do I need to take US history?

I’m a Taiwanese student with a Canadian passport studying in Tianjin, China in an American-curriculum-based school. If I hadn’t taken US history, and I’m going to be a senior this fall, do I need to take it? I’ve taken World History and Economics for history courses. I’m thinking of applying to UC Berkeley. Help.

Top 3 Answers
A few days ago
Anonymous

Favorite Answer

That is up to the school you are currently attending. If its graduation requirements state American History is necessary, then yes you need to take it.

I will tell you that American History is a requirement for most 4 year degree programs in the U.S. — at least one semester — and it will be a lot easier for you if you have had a high school level version.

(BTW: What passport you hold has no bearing what-so-ever on this issue).

0

A few days ago
catgirl
I can’t speak to the requirements of your high school; however, I disagree with the other posters. US History is not a required course in most universities/colleges in the US. I’ve taught at or attended 4 colleges/universities so far and it has never been a required course. They may require that you take a certain amount of credits in the humanities or social sciences but it is rare to dictate what those credits must be.

That being said, taking US history isn’t a bad idea, especially if you want to study in the US.

1

A few days ago
Anonymous
Well, I can’t comment on all of the technical details about taking US History (meaning, whether or not it’s required for your school, graduation, etc).

BUT I will say that for most American students, U.S. history is both a requirement in high school, and in college.

It might not be a requirement for you to graduate high school, OR to be admitted to some U.S. colleges as an International Student, but you’ll probably have to take it in college anyway.

And even if you don’t, it will be helpful, since many other classes (English, social studies, etc) will have references to U.S. history anyway.

0