Aug 11, 2025  
2025-2026 Catalog 
    
2025-2026 Catalog

General Education - Area 4: Social and Behavioral Sciences


Six (6) semester units. Courses shall be completed in two different disciplines.

Through the study of American history, democratic institutions, and ideals, students will learn how American democracy functions at federal, state, and local levels. Students will examine the United States Constitution, the evolution of American political institutions, and the principles of representative government. This knowledge will prepare students to participate actively in American democracy as informed and engaged citizens.

Courses used for Subject Area 4 can double count with the U.S. History, Constitution, and American Ideals (American Institutions) graduation requirement.
The American Institutions requirement consists of three areas:

US-1: Historical development of American institutions and ideals
US-2: United States Constitution and government
US-3*: California state and local government

Subject Area 4H: United States History (3 units)

The following Area 4H courses also meet American Institutions area US-1.

Select one course from:

Subject Area 4C/4G: United States Constitution and California Government (3 units)

The following Area 4C/4G courses also meet American Institutions areas US-2 and US-3*.

Select one course from:

*US-3: California Government

*Students transferring from other accredited institutions who have completed a course on United States government and the Constitution of the United States (without the California state and local government component/US-3) may satisfy the American Institutions area US-3 by taking one of the following courses:

 

Check the Class Schedule or Degree Planner for the most up-to-date list of courses satisfying this requirement.