What degree programs does the department offer?

The Department of History & Global Cultures offers undergraduate degrees in History, Anthropology, Global Studies, and History-Social Science Teacher Preparation, along with an MA in History. Students can also pursue accelerated FAST 4+1 programs, minors in History, Anthropology, and Global Studies, and a certificate in Public History and Cultural Heritage.

Explore Our Degree Programs

Can I complete my degree online?

Yes! Our department offers fully online, hybrid, and on-campus learning options, depending on the degree program.

• Fully Online: Complete coursework asynchronously, without required live class meetings. Available for undergraduate programs in History, History and Social Science Teaching, Anthropology, and Global Studies.

• Hybrid: Combine online coursework with in-person classes at the Hayward campus.

• On Campus: Attend classes in person and engage directly with faculty and fellow students.

The History MA is an in-person program at the Hayward campus. 

Can I transfer courses from another college?

Yes. Many courses completed at accredited colleges and universities may count toward your degree, including courses in History, Anthropology, and Global Studies. Our faculty advisors can help you understand how previous coursework applies to your chosen major and develop a personalized degree plan.

Students transferring from California community colleges can also explore Associate Degrees for Transfer (ADT).

How long will it take to complete my degree?

Completion time depends on your program, previous coursework, and enrollment status. Our faculty advisors work with students to develop individualized degree plans designed to support timely graduation.

Students entering as first-year students typically plan for four years, while transfer students entering with appropriate coursework may complete their bachelor's degree in approximately two years.

What can I do with a degree in History, Anthropology, or Global Studies?

Our programs develop research, analytical, writing, communication, and cross-cultural skills that are valuable in a wide range of careers.

Graduates pursue opportunities in education, business, government, law, museums, cultural heritage, public service, international organizations, and other fields. Some careers require additional education or professional training.

Are internships and research opportunities available?

Yes! Students have opportunities to participate in faculty research, internships, museum projects, historical publishing, community engagement, and other hands-on experiences.

Opportunities include working with the Clarence E. Smith Museum of Anthropology, participating in archaeological fieldwork and public history projects, and gaining editorial and publishing experience through East Bay Historia, our student-run scholarly journal. Students can also pursue internships with museums, archives, historical societies, schools, and community organizations throughout the Bay Area, as well as international internships or study abroad opportunities.

Students are also encouraged to present their research at the annual Wanda Washington Student Conference, gaining valuable experience in scholarly communication and professional development.

Can I add a minor or certificate to my degree?

Yes! Our department offers minors in History, Anthropology, and Global Studies, along with a certificate in Public History and Cultural Heritage. These programs allow students to explore additional interests, develop specialized skills, and complement their major.

Some courses may fulfill requirements for both your major and minor, subject to university policies and program requirements.

Does the department offer scholarships?

Yes! Students in the Department of History & Global Cultures benefit from generous donor support through the Friends of History & Global Cultures, with nearly $30,000 in scholarships and awards distributed annually.

Our departmental scholarships primarily support undergraduate and graduate History students, including those pursuing History-Social Science Teacher Preparation. Opportunities recognize academic achievement, financial need, and interests in areas such as public history, teaching, and historical research. Several scholarships also give special consideration to transfer students and first-generation college students.

Students can also earn departmental awards recognizing outstanding research, writing, and academic achievement. Scholarship eligibility and application deadlines vary, and students are encouraged to explore available opportunities and contact the department for guidance.

Can I earn a bachelor's and master's degree through the FAST 4+1 program?

Yes! Our FAST program allows eligible students majoring in History, Anthropology, or Global Studies to begin graduate coursework while completing their bachelor's degrees.

Eligible transfer students may complete both degrees in as little as three years after transferring to Cal State East Bay, while students beginning as first-year students may complete the pathway in five years.

Can I prepare to become a teacher through your department?

Yes. Our History-Social Science Teacher Preparation program prepares students to pursue a California Single Subject Teaching Credential in Social Science.

The program includes interdisciplinary coursework in history, government, economics, geography, and ethnic studies. Students who complete the approved subject matter preparation program can satisfy the subject matter competency requirement without taking the Social Science CSET, subject to applicable credentialing requirements. A separate teaching credential program is required to become a credentialed teacher.

Do I need an undergraduate degree in History to apply to the History MA?

No. Our History MA welcomes applicants from a variety of undergraduate disciplines. Students can pursue graduate study through four capstone pathways: Generalist, Teaching, Public History, and University Thesis.

How do I connect with a faculty advisor?

Our department provides personalized faculty advising to help students plan their coursework, explore academic opportunities, and prepare for their careers.

Prospective students can contact Dr. Jason Daniels, Department Chair, at jason.daniels@csueastbay.edu, or the department office at history@csueastbay.edu to connect with the appropriate program advisor.

When should I apply?

Application deadlines vary by semester and degree program. Visit the CSU Application Dates and Deadlines page for current information.

If you're concerned about meeting a deadline, contact Student Outreach Counselors for assistance. Graduate applicants should also review the History MA program's specific deadlines.