Navigating the Landscape of Historical Inquiry: A Comprehensive Guide to UCI's Religious Studies and History Curricula

The study of history and religion offers a profound lens through which to understand the complexities of human civilization, its diverse cultures, and the evolution of thought and practice across time and geographies. At the University of California, Irvine (UCI), the School of Humanities provides a rich and interdisciplinary environment for students to delve into these critical fields. This article explores the offerings within the Religious Studies (REL STD) and History (HISTORY) departments, highlighting their interconnectedness and the diverse pathways available for academic exploration, with a particular focus on the global reach of these disciplines, encompassing Asian and Middle Eastern studies, as well as European and American historical trajectories.

Foundations in Religious Studies: Understanding Belief and Practice

The Religious Studies program at UCI is designed to foster a critical understanding of the world's diverse religious traditions, their historical development, and their impact on societies. The core of the undergraduate curriculum is built around a series of foundational courses that provide a broad overview of global religious landscapes.

REL STD 5A: World Religions I and REL STD 5B: World Religions II offer a comprehensive survey of major religious traditions, examining their beliefs, practices, and historical-cultural contexts. These courses are crucial for building a foundational understanding of the internal diversity and ongoing evolution of various wisdom traditions. REL STD 5C: Religious Dialogue, also listed as HISTORY 16C, directly engages with the concept of interfaith understanding and the practice of cross-cultural dialogue on complex topics. This course challenges simplistic notions of "religion" and encourages students to multiply their perspectives through a critical analysis of multiple global traditions using diverse interdisciplinary theories and methods.

For students seeking a more specialized focus, the department offers a range of upper-division electives. REL STD 17 (An Economic Approach to Religion), also designated as ECON/REL STD 17, explores the intersection of economic principles and religious phenomena. REL STD 21 (Philosophy and Religion), cross-listed with PHILOS/REL STD 21, delves into the philosophical underpinnings of religious thought.

The curriculum also features courses that delve into specific religious traditions and themes. REL STD 60 (Global Themes in Sikh Studies), cross-listed with ANTHRO/REL STD 60, provides an interdisciplinary approach to Sikhism, drawing from anthropology, religious studies, ethnic studies, and South Asian diaspora studies. REL STD 61 (Gender and Religion), also listed as GEN&SEX 60C/REL STD 61, examines the complex interplay between gender roles and religious doctrines and practices.

Further specialization is available through courses like REL STD 100 (Topics in the Study of Religion) and REL STD 103 (Topics in the Philosophy of Religion), both of which are repeatable as topics vary, allowing for in-depth exploration of emerging or specialized areas of study. REL STD 110W (Thinking about Religion: Theories and Methodologies) is a critical course for any Religious Studies major, focusing on the theoretical frameworks and methodological approaches used in the academic study of religion. This course requires satisfactory completion of the Lower-Division Writing requirement and gives first consideration for enrollment to Religious Studies majors.

The department also offers specialized courses such as REL STD 120 (Topics in Asian Religious Traditions), REL STD 122 (Ancient India) (cross-listed with ART HIS 155A/HISTORY 170A/REL STD 122), REL STD 123 (Medieval India) (cross-listed with ART HIS 155B/HISTORY 170B/REL STD 123), REL STD 124 (Topics in Modern Indian Religion), REL STD 125 (Jain History, Culture, and Ethics), and REL STD 126 (Topics in Jain Studies). These courses highlight the program's commitment to exploring the rich tapestry of religious traditions in Asia.

For those interested in the Abrahamic faiths and Middle Eastern traditions, REL STD 130 (Jewish, Islamic, and Middle Eastern Religious Traditions) provides a crucial link to historical and cultural studies. Furthermore, REL STD 140 (Early Western Religious Traditions) and REL STD 150 (Religion in the Americas) round out the departmental offerings, ensuring a broad geographical and historical scope.

Certificates and Interdisciplinary Connections in Religious Studies

Beyond the major, UCI offers two certificates within the Religious Studies program: the Certificate in Religions and Cultures and the Certificate in Jain Studies & Nonviolence.

The Certificate in Religions and Cultures is accessible to undergraduate and graduate students across all schools. It emphasizes engagement with diverse wisdom and cultural traditions, fostering critical thinking about the nature and function of religion. This certificate equips students with adaptive skills such as navigating diverse sources, practicing cross-cultural dialogue, and considering religion through various lenses including history, evolution, ritual, politics, and lived practice. These skills are highly valuable for careers in multicultural communities, nonprofit leadership, mediation, counseling, education, journalism, technology, business, or graduate studies in law, medicine, public health, and diplomacy. The foundational courses for this certificate include the REL STD 5A, 5B, and 5C series.

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The Certificate in Jain Studies & Nonviolence provides a focused exploration of Jainism and its ethical principles. To complete this certificate, students must critically analyze multiple global traditions and may combine their Religious Studies major or minor with other disciplines such as chemistry, neurobiology, psychology, mathematics, business administration, political science, history, art, and more. The program encourages students to select a third relevant course from any program or school, provided it meaningfully overlaps with Jain Studies and nonviolence, with a brief rationale submitted to Professor Brianne Donaldson.

The Breadth of Historical Inquiry at UCI

The History Department at UCI offers an expansive array of courses that span global history, from ancient civilizations to contemporary issues. The curriculum is structured to provide both breadth and depth, allowing students to explore diverse regions, time periods, and thematic concerns.

Global and Regional Histories:

The department offers extensive coverage of various world regions. HISTORY 15C (Asian American Histories) and HISTORY 15D (History of Sexuality in the US) provide critical perspectives on American history, examining the experiences of specific communities and social phenomena. The curriculum also includes significant offerings in Asian history, such as HISTORY 280 (Topics in Asian History), which is repeatable as topics vary. This is further complemented by courses like HISTORY 16A (World Religions I) and HISTORY 16B (World Religions II), demonstrating the intrinsic link between historical study and the understanding of global belief systems.

The Middle East is a significant area of focus, with courses like HISTORY 132B (The Emergence of the Modern Middle East), HISTORY 132C (Women and Gender in the Middle East), and HISTORY 132H (Topics in Middle Eastern History). The department also offers HISTORY 270 (Topics in Middle Eastern History), which is repeatable. The history of specific communities within the Middle East is also explored, including HISTORY 130C (Topics in the Jewish History), HISTORY 130D (History of Antisemitism), and HISTORY 130F (Jews and Power). The rich history of Persia is covered through HISTORY 131A (History of Zoroastrianism), HISTORY 131B (Ancient Persia), HISTORY 131C (Medieval Persia), and HISTORY 131D (Modern Iran). Furthermore, Armenian history is addressed in HISTORY 132D (Armenians and Armenia in Ancient to Early Modern World History) and HISTORY 132E (Armenians and Armenia in Modern World History).

European history is another core component, with courses such as HISTORY 110D (Topics in Early Modern Europe), HISTORY 112D (Topics in Early Modern Europe), HISTORY 114 (Topics in Modern European History), and HISTORY 230 (Topics in European History). Specific national histories are also explored, including HISTORY 123D (Topics in Spanish History) and HISTORY 120D (War and Empire: France and the World in the 20th Century). The pivotal era of HISTORY 126B (The Era of World War II: 1933-45) is also a key offering. Women's history in Europe is addressed in HISTORY 128C (Topics in the History of Women in Europe).

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African history is covered through HISTORY 134A (Africa: Societies and Cultures) and HISTORY 134C (Topics in the History of Africa). The diaspora and specific regional histories are explored in HISTORY 134E (History of the African Diaspora) and HISTORY 134D (Topics in South African History). Latin American history is represented by HISTORY 250 (Topics in Latin American History).

Thematic and Interdisciplinary Approaches:

Beyond regional studies, the History Department offers a variety of thematic courses. HISTORY 102B (Topics in Environmental History) and HISTORY 135E (Topics in the History of Science and Technology) explore the crucial intersections between human societies and their environments, as well as the development of scientific and technological advancements. HISTORY 135A (The Scientific Revolution) and HISTORY 135G (Language Origins: Evolution, Genetics, and the Brain) delve into specific historical periods and scientific inquiries.

The history of medicine and health is a growing area of interest, with HISTORY 136D (Topics in the History of Medicine and Health Care) and HISTORY 137 (Surviving Epidemics). The latter course has prerequisites including the Lower-Division Writing requirement and is restricted to Juniors, Sophomores, and Seniors.

The department also provides courses that engage with historical representation and interpretation. "What to Eat?" (Ib), listed as HISTORY 15F, suggests an exploration of food history, a topic that offers insights into culture, economics, and social practices. The essay by Stephen Jay Gould on "juicy faults" in Jurassic Park is referenced in the context of a course examining cinematic representations of the European Renaissance and early modernity. This course looks at "juicy faults" about the European Renaissance in movies from the 1940s to the early 21st century, in conversation with primary and secondary historical and literary texts. It investigates the role of cinematic representations of the European Renaissance and European early modernity (c. 1500-1650) in shaping modern and post-modern political, religious, cultural, and scientific identities in the West from the Cold War up through the aftermath of 9/11 (c. 1945-2007). Topics include the persecution of witches, female leadership, Machiavellianism, the Reformation, Dutch and Italian Renaissance art history, contact with the Muslim Ottoman Empire, and European wars. Production elements, director bios, and film marketing are also discussed.

Advanced Study and Research Opportunities

For students pursuing advanced study in history, UCI offers a robust sequence of research seminars and independent study options.

HISTORY 193 (Advanced Research Seminar I) and HISTORY 194 (Advanced Research Seminar II) are designed for History majors who have completed the Lower-Division Writing requirement. These seminars provide intensive training in historical research methodologies and the development of scholarly arguments. HISTORY 194 has HISTORY 193 as a prerequisite.

HISTORY 197 (Internships in Public History) offers practical experience in applying historical knowledge in professional settings. This course is graded on a Pass/Not Pass basis and is restricted to History majors. HISTORY 199 (Independent Reading) allows students to pursue specialized topics under the guidance of a faculty member, and it can be taken an unlimited number of times.

At the graduate level, the department offers HISTORY 200 (History and Theory), which is repeatable. The First-Year Research Seminar (HISTORY 202A and 202B) and the Second-Year Research Seminar (HISTORY 204A and 204B) are specifically designed for History majors to hone their research skills. HISTORY 202B requires HISTORY 202A with a minimum grade of B-, and HISTORY 204B requires HISTORY 204A with a minimum grade of B-. HISTORY 205 (Approaches to History) provides a broad overview of historical methodologies.

The History in the Professions series (HISTORY 210A, 210B, and 210C) offers practical insights into pursuing history in graduate school and beyond. These courses are 1.3 units each and are graded on a Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory basis.

The department also offers numerous Topics courses at the graduate level, including HISTORY 230 (Topics in European History), HISTORY 240 (Topics in World History), HISTORY 250 (Topics in Latin American History), HISTORY 260 (Topics in American History), HISTORY 270 (Topics in Middle Eastern History), and HISTORY 280 (Topics in Asian History). All of these are repeatable as topics vary. HISTORY 290 (Special Topics) is also available and repeatable.

HISTORY 291 (Directed Reading) and HISTORY 297 (History Internship) provide further opportunities for specialized study and practical experience at the graduate level. HISTORY 297 is graded Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory and is repeatable. HISTORY 298 (Experimental Group Study) and HISTORY 299 (Dissertation Research) are for advanced graduate students engaged in extensive research and scholarly writing. HISTORY 299 is graded Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory.

The School of Humanities: An Interdisciplinary Hub

The School of Humanities at UCI is internationally recognized for its outstanding programs in history, languages, philosophy, and literature, film, and the arts. Its core mission is to equip students with analytical tools to understand, describe, and critically engage with the world. A liberal arts education in the humanities prepares students to examine diverse written and visual forms and to communicate effectively.

All Humanities students are introduced to writing, philosophy, history, visual culture, literature, and a language other than English. This interdisciplinary approach fosters a deep understanding of various traditions and cultures, developing students' ability to comprehend and make sense of other people and their societies. The School places a strong emphasis on language study and composition, recognizing language as the humanist's essential tool. Programs in more than a dozen languages other than English are offered, crucial for fostering critical thinking, self-reflection, and international awareness.

The School houses distinguished programs in creative writing, literary journalism, and the Program in Global Languages and Communication. Interdisciplinary study is a hallmark of the Humanities Honors Program and many undergraduate degree programs. Humanities majors are exceptionally well-prepared for careers that demand analysis, judgment, argumentation, and communication, including business, medicine, law, education, politics, public policy, academia, new media, and journalism. Employers increasingly seek graduates who can communicate effectively across cultures, think critically, and adapt to new challenges.

The School offers academic counseling through the Office of Undergraduate Study and graduate degrees in a wide range of disciplines, often leading to a Ph.D. with a Master's degree awarded along the way. Standalone M.A. programs are available in English, European Languages and Studies, and History. The School also offers three 4+1 M.A. programs (B.A. and M.A. in five years) in Art History, Asian American Studies, and European Thought and Culture. Additionally, the Department of English administers the M.F.A. Program in Writing.

Graduate emphases within the School include Asian American Studies, Critical Theory, Feminist Studies, Film and Media Studies, Latin American Studies, Medical Humanities, and Visual Studies. Specializations in Ancient Iran and the Premodern Persianate World, and Persian/Iranian Studies are also offered.

Honors and Experiential Learning

The Humanities Honors Program, directed by Jeffrey Wasserstrom, is a two-year, upper-division program designed for exceptional students. It provides opportunities for intellectual growth in an interdisciplinary setting, with small seminars, individual faculty attention, peer support, and independent research. Honors students critically examine the meaning and value of humanistic inquiry, honing their skills as thinkers, writers, and global citizens. The program involves an interdisciplinary Proseminar (HUMAN H120) in the junior year, exploring topics like borders of human life, crime and punishment, or "Stories That Matter: Narratives of Past and Present." In the senior year, students engage in a Senior Honors Seminar (HUMAN H140), followed by a Senior Honors Thesis (HUMAN H141) and Senior Honors Colloquium (HUMAN H142W), culminating in an independent research project.

Humanities Experiential Learning opportunities enrich undergraduate education and complement classroom learning. These include internship preparation, career development classes, mentored undergraduate research, digital project work, study abroad, and support for graduate and professional school applications. The Director of Experiential Learning facilitates these programs, helping students build strong professional portfolios.

The Humanities Peer Mentor Program addresses the academic, cultural, and social needs of freshmen, particularly first-generation college students. It aims to develop leadership skills through a two-tiered mentoring system, with upper-division students mentoring freshmen, and these student mentors working with faculty and staff. The program also encourages student mentors to pursue graduate studies. Workshops cover topics such as communication, study skills, time management, and imposter syndrome, alongside social events.

Specialized Centers and Initiatives

UCI's commitment to interdisciplinary research and community engagement is further exemplified by several specialized centers and initiatives housed within or affiliated with the School of Humanities.

The Center for Critical Korean Studies (CCKS) focuses on Korea-specific critical theory related to race, borders, ecology, and contemporary popular culture. It promotes learning Korean, critical thinking about Korea's relationship to the Pacific Rim and the world, and a deeper historical understanding of Korea.

The Center for the Study of the Americas aims to engage Orange County communities of Latin American ancestry through public programs, conferences, film screenings, and musical events that explore the history and cultures of Latin America and its influence globally. The Department of Spanish and Portuguese administers a minor and graduate emphasis in Latin American Studies.

C-LAB (Research Justice in the Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences) identifies research questions, explores methodologies, and experiments with diverse publication dissemination methods to advance social justice, striving to create a "research justice university."

The Interdisciplinary Center for the Study of the Humanities, Arts, and Sciences (ICWT) fosters interdisciplinary research projects bridging arts, humanities, engineering, medicine, and sciences. It sponsors campus and community events such as lectures, performances, and film screenings. Courses in language, literature, history, art history, music, and culture are central to its academic mission. The Program in Global Languages and Communication offers courses in Persian language, while the Department of History administers courses in ancient, medieval, and modern Persian history. Modern Persian literature and the literature of the Iranian diaspora are offered through the Department of Comparative Literature. Art history courses on ancient Iran and Iranian visual culture are available through the Department of Art history, and Persian music courses are housed within the Department of Music.

The International Center for Writing and Translation (ICWT), founded by NgÅ©gÄ© wa Thiongâo, emphasizes the transformative power of translation in forging new bonds, awakening understanding, and inciting critical social change. It celebrates writing and thinking across languages.

Language Proficiency and Academic Progression

The School of Humanities has specific policies regarding language proficiency for all UCI students taking language other than English courses. Progression within beginning and intermediate language sequences requires a grade of at least C (or Pass) to advance. Students cannot repeat lower-level courses for credit once a more advanced level has been successfully completed, nor can they enroll in multiple levels of the same language concurrently.

Placement tests are mandatory for Arabic, Armenian, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Persian, Russian, Spanish, and Vietnamese. Placement tests are recommended but not required for French and German. The purpose of these tests is to ensure student success in UCI language courses. Students with prior high school language training are generally placed based on years of study, with one year of high school work equating to one quarter of UCI work. Students who wish to "go back" one quarter to reinforce their learning will earn credit. Students will not receive credit for repeating language courses for which they received transfer credit. If a language course is exempted due to transfer credit or Advanced Placement, an approved substitute course must be completed for Humanities majors or minors. For Advanced Placement, students cannot earn units or grade points for exempted courses, but they may elect to take a higher-level course for credit.

Native speakers of languages other than English are defined by the University as those who attended the equivalent of secondary school in another country.

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