California State University Dominguez Hills: A Legacy of History, Diverse Programs, and Vibrant Campus Life
California State University-Dominguez Hills (CSUDH) stands as a beacon of education in the greater Los Angeles area. As a 4-year public university within the Cal State system, CSUDH boasts six colleges that collectively grant undergraduate degrees in over 40 academic majors. Renowned for its diverse student body, CSUDH enrolls more African American students than any other public university in California and holds the esteemed designation of a Hispanic-Serving Institution. This article delves into the history programs offered at CSUDH, campus life and student activities, and other essential aspects of the university.
History Programs at CSUDH: A Journey Through Time
The History Department at CSUDH offers a comprehensive undergraduate major and minor in history, providing a robust foundation for students interested in understanding the past. The program delivers essential history subject matter content for teachers in Liberal Studies and secondary education, as well as undergraduate subject matter for college history teaching. Furthermore, it prepares students for advanced studies in history graduate programs.
Curriculum Overview
High school students aspiring to study history are encouraged to pursue broadly based humanities and social science courses. Students transferring from community colleges can apply relevant lower-division courses, particularly those in world civilization, toward their major requirements. The history program at CSUDH encompasses a wide array of topical and area courses. Lower-division survey courses enable students to establish connections between historical events and figures while honing their skills in finding and evaluating evidence. Upper-division courses delve into specific eras and topics with greater depth.
Core Courses
All history majors are required to complete three core courses: HIS 300, HIS 400, and HIS 490. These courses provide a solid understanding of the terms, methods, and theories employed by historians in their study of the past. They also equip students with the tools to engage in historical inquiry on topics of personal interest. History courses are valuable as general electives or as components of interdisciplinary majors.
Major Requirements
The standard History Major requires the completion of 45 units, equivalent to 15 courses:
Read also: Comprehensive Guide to KSU Printing
- Two lower-division courses in World Civilization (HIS 120 and 121)
- Three core courses (HIS 300, 400, and 490)
- A three-course concentration in non-United States history (with a limit of two courses per continent) from courses numbered 305, 310-319, 360-369, and 395 (when the subject is appropriate)
- A three-course concentration in United States history, including two period courses selected from courses numbered 330-336 and one topical course selected from courses numbered 340-359 or 395 (when the subject is appropriate)
- Four electives, with at least one being a topical course
Social Science Education Option
History students aiming to obtain authorization in History/Social Science Single Subject Matter, which allows them to teach history and social science in junior high or high school, should declare this option as their major. Both new and continuing students are encouraged to enroll in or switch to this option.
History Minor
The History Minor requires the completion of 15 units. Students can choose any five upper-division courses to fulfill their minor requirements.
Mission Statement
The History Department at CSUDH is committed to providing excellent educational opportunities, emphasizing diversity, and transforming students into lifelong learners. Guided by the American Historical Association's standards, the department practices history with integrity, documents sources meticulously, and respects diverse viewpoints. The goal is to establish CSUDH as a distinguished center for teaching, learning, and research.
Campus Life at CSUDH: A Vibrant and Engaging Community
CSUDH offers a rich and diverse campus life with numerous opportunities for students to engage in activities, build communities, and develop their skills.
Student Organizations
CSUDH boasts a wide array of student organizations that cater to various interests and needs:
Read also: UW-Madison Tuition Requirements
- Associated Students, Incorporated (ASI): The official student voice of CSUDH, ASI promotes student growth, advocacy, leadership, and guidance through various commissions and events.
- Cultural Resource Centers: These centers provide cultural homes for API, Black/Afrikan/American, Latinx, and Queer students, fostering community, belonging, learning, and engagement.
- E.N.G.AG.E. Health Science Student Alliance Club: Supports students majoring in related fields.
- Teach One Reach One (TORO): Assists new first-year students in achieving academic success.
- M.E.Ch.A.: Aims to support Muslim students with their spiritual, social, and intellectual goals.
- National Society of Collegiate Scholars: Recognizes students ranked in the top 20 percent of their class.
- Pi Theta Epsilon, Gamma Gamma Chapter: A national honor society in occupational therapy, promoting quality health care services through scholarly activities.
- Psi Chi: A national honor society in psychology.
- A.L.P.F.A.: Dedicated to developing leaders and uniting the Latino community.
- IEEE CLAS CSUDH Computer Society Student Branch: Fosters technological innovation and excellence.
- Christians on Campus: Focuses on spreading the message of Jesus Christ.
- Boxing Club: Promotes fitness and well-being among students.
- E.M.P.O.W.E.R.: Dedicated to the needs and concerns of the community, promoting unity, honesty, integrity, and leadership.
- Phi Iota Alpha: Develops leaders and creates innovative ways to unite the Latino community.
- Sigma Pi Fraternity International: Establishes a diverse and academically oriented brotherhood.
- Lambda Theta Nu: Promotes and fosters Latina leaders through educational and professional development, relationship building, and community involvement.
- Sigma Lambda Gamma: Promotes standards of self-excellence in morality, ethics, and education.
- The Women⁺s Resource Center: Advances gender equity, social justice, and an inclusive campus climate through various programs and services.
Campus Facilities
CSUDH offers a range of facilities to support student life and activities:
- Loker Student Union: A central hub for student activities, featuring the ASI Office and various meeting spaces.
- Child Development Center (CDC): Provides affordable and dependable childcare for CSUDH students, faculty, and staff.
- Athletic Facilities: Include the Torodome (gymnasium), fitness center, swimming pool, tennis courts, track, and all-purpose field, available for use by enrolled students, faculty, and staff.
- University Housing Services: Offers furnished apartments on campus with amenities such as community rooms, laundry facilities, and Wi-Fi access.
Student Activities and Events
Throughout the year, CSUDH hosts numerous events and activities to engage students and foster a sense of community:
- Toro Tuesdays: A campus-wide celebration of school spirit.
- Pizza with the President: An opportunity for students to interact with the university president.
- Commuter Outreach: Programs and services designed to support commuter students.
- Fitness Classes: A variety of fitness classes are offered to promote health and wellness.
- Intramural Sports: Provides students, faculty, and staff the opportunity to participate in inner-campus athletic competitions and fitness classes.
- Music Department Concerts: Features recitals by guest artists, faculty programs, and performances by student ensembles.
- Toro Forensics Team: Provides students with the practice and experience they need to sharpen their speech communication and oral interpretation skills.
- Honors Program: Offers academically enriched and socially supportive environment that inspires students in all disciplines to become creative and critical thinkers as well as leaders in their fields.
Housing
University Housing Services provides CSUDH students a safe and inclusive living experience that promotes independent living, maximizes their educational experience, and facilitates their personal development through well-maintained housing facilities. Enrolled students are encouraged to live on campus in one of the 164 furnished apartments located on the northeast corner of campus.
Academics at CSUDH: Excellence and Innovation
CSUDH is committed to academic excellence and offers a variety of programs and resources to support student success.
Academic Calendar
The academic calendar is based on a semester system.
Read also: Westfield State University Legacy
Learning Options
CSUDH provides various learning options to accommodate different student needs, including:
- Online classes
- Online undergraduate degrees
- Summer sessions
- Combined institution double degree programs
- Some programs require co-op/internship
- ROTC Army and Air Force
- Study abroad programs
- Honors Program
- Teacher Certification
Research Opportunities
The Urban Community Research Center (UCRC) offers students hands-on applied research experience in collaboration with community organizations and agencies. Faculty and students conduct research on urban community conditions and problems, contributing to the improvement of the Los Angeles basin.
Affordability and Financial Aid
CSUDH is committed to making education accessible and affordable for all students.
Tuition and Fees
Tuition for in-state students is \$7,454, while out-of-state tuition is \$20,054. Additional costs include room and board (\$18,444) and books and supplies (\$1152).
Financial Aid
CSUDH offers various forms of financial aid to students, including:
- Federal grants
- State grants
- Institutional grants
- Scholarships
- Student loans
In a recent year, CSUDH awarded \$143,950,000 in total needs-based scholarships and grants.
Admissions
CSUDH has a rolling admissions policy.
Key Admissions Stats
- Institution Type: Not for Profit
- Coed
- Need Blind: This school does not consider an applicant’s financial situation when deciding admission
- Level of Institution: 4 Year
- Campus Setting: Small city
Admissions Requirements
- Transcript: Yes
- SAT Subject Tests: Yes
- AP Course Credit: Yes
- Dual Enrollment: Yes
Important Deadlines
- Fall Regular Decision Application Deadline: December 4
- Application Fee: \$55 (Fee waivers available)
Diversity
CSUDH is a diverse institution, enrolling more African American students than any other public university in the state and is also a designated Hispanic-Serving Institution.
Student Body
The student body at CSUDH is diverse, with a significant percentage of first-generation students (59%).
History Bachelor’s Program Diversity
During a recent academic year, 28 history majors earned their bachelor's degree from CSUDH. Of these graduates, 82% were men and 18% were women. The majority of the bachelor's degree graduates for this major are Hispanic or Latino.
Safety
CSUDH prioritizes campus safety and security.
Primary Campus Safety Measures
- 24-HR security patrol: No
- Campus emergency phones: No
- 24-HR escort safety rides: No
- Mobile campus emergency alert: No
tags: #cal #state #university #dominguez #hills #history

