required classes

Research and Fieldwork
HMUS-52o (2 credits)
Instructor: Faculty
Students will develop a research project and learn how to locate, analyze, and interpret a wide variety of written, oral and visual sources. A research prospectus and bibliography and shorter assignments are required. The course will also introduce students to the techniques and practice of oral history, including research in the field, weekly readings and group projects. Enrollment is limited to first-year students in the Cooperstown Graduate Program.
Required, first semester, Fall

history and research - electives

American Cultures I
HISC 502 (3 credits)
Instructor: Faculty
This course will explore the development of American thought, culture and society from the period of encounter through the outbreak of the Civil War. Students read and discuss critical documents and historical and cultural works that illuminate the major themes and tensions in American life before Emancipation. The course includes two field trips to historic locations in central New York and work with collections in the Fenimore Art Museum, Iroquis Storage Facility, and NYSHA Research Library. Students comment on the readings in journal entries, lead class discussions, and write a review essay of historical literature on a topic of their choice.
Elective, Fall

American Cultures II
HISC 503 (3 credits)
Instructor: Faculty
A continuation of American Cultures I, this course examines the political, cultural and social issues and conflicts confronting the United States from the Civil War to the present day. Readings explore the development of race and ethnic relations since slavery and the rise of the United States as an economic, cultural and foreign policy superpower during the "American Century." The course includes two field trips to historic locations in central New York and work with collections in the Fenimore Art Museum, Iroquis Storage Facility, and NYSHA Research Library. Students write critical response essays and develop a research prospectus and class presentation on a potential thesis project.
Elective, Spring

Class, Race and Gender
HISC-530 (2-3 credits)
Instructor: Faculty
This course explores how popular portrayals and critical interpretations of class, race, ethnicity, and gender have developed throughout the course of American history. Students read and discuss documents, historical and cultural works, and museum exhibitions and websites that illuminate the experiences and perspectives of a wide range of communities. Class activities emphasize the potential of museums and historic sites to work closely and effectively with the diverse populations they serve. Assignments include short review essays, a class presentation, and a historiographical review on a topic of the student’s choice.
Elective, Spring

Topics in History
HISC-550 (1–3 credits)
Instructor: Faculty
Students may request a course pertinent to the Program's areas of interest but not regularly offered. The course will be given only if three or more students request it, and if a faculty member is able and willing to offer it.
Elective, Fall or Spring

Independent Study: History
HISC-551 (1–3 credits)
Instructor: Faculty
Students may take up to three hours of Independent Study per semester. Students must design the study in consultation with the appropriate faculty member and complete an Application for Independent Study form and have it signed by the instructor before registering for the course. Each credit hour requires at least 15 hours (of 50 minutes each) of instruction and at least 30 hours of supplementary assignments.
Elective, Fall or Spring