History and Social Science - Dual Enrollment

U.S./VA Government (DE) teachers the political structure, processes, institutions, and a policymaking of the U.S. national government. Students will focus on the three branches of government, their interrelationships, and how they shape policy. The courses will address federalism; civil liberties and civil rights; political socialization and participation; public opinions and the media; interest groups; political parties; elections; and policymaking. Students will demonstrate well-rounded knowledge of American government and politics; demonstrate an understanding of how political scientists analyze and interpret the foundations, institutions, processes, and actors that constitute American government and politics; and demonstrate critical thought about American government and politics. Successful completion of the course equates to PLS 135 U.S. Government and Politics (3 credit) at NOVA.

U.S./VA History encompasses HIS 121 United States History to 1877 in the Fall and HIS 122 United States History Since 1865. In HIS 121, students will be introduced to the history of the United States from its origins to 1877. This includes European exploration; development of the American colonies and their institutions: the Revolution; major political, social, and economic developments; geographical expansion; the Civil War, and Reconstruction. In HIS 122 students will be introduced to the history of the United States from 1865 to present. This includes major political, social, and economic developments since 1865; overseas expansion, the two world wards; the Cold War, and the post-Cold War era. Students will reach a basic understanding of the historical development of the United States through a combination of educational methods including lecture, document analysis, and historical methodology. These changes will be considered from the perspective of the multiple and diverse historical groups of people driving them and effected by them. Successful completion of this course equates to HIS 121 United States History to 1877 and HIS 122 United States History since 1865.