HIST 300: Introduction to Historical Method

HIST 300-001: Hist Medicine & Public Health
(Spring 2027)

01:30 PM to 04:10 PM T

Horizon Hall 3223

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Section Information for Spring 2027

This seminar is an introduction to the theory and practice of history. Students will learn to develop research questions, find and analyze primary and secondary sources, organize their thoughts into arguments that are supported by evidence, and present those arguments effectively in both written and oral forms.

 

Our thematic focus will be the histories of medicine and public health in the 19th-20th centuries. Discussion topics will include the historical and social constructions of disease and wellness; cultural components of illness; politics of public health and hygiene; social determinants of health; medical technologies and their ethical, social, and cultural implications. Through independent research investigations, students will explore how to use different kinds of sources to reconstruct the past, and think critically about ways of writing history.

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Course Information from the University Catalog

Credits: 3

Introduces research skills and methods, as well as historical interpretation, culminating in written and oral presentations. Notes: Topics vary according to instructor. History majors strongly urged to take HIST 300 as soon as possible after reaching 30 credits. Grade of C or better is required to graduate with BA in history. Students may repeat HIST 300 only with permission from the Department of History and Art History and repetitions are limited. Offered by History & Art History. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Mason Core, Synthesis, Writing Intensive in Major
Specialized Designation: Mason Impact., Topic Varies
Recommended Prerequisite: History majors with 30 credits or permission of instructor.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a major in History.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

The University Catalog is the authoritative source for information on courses. The Schedule of Classes is the authoritative source for information on classes scheduled for this semester. See the Schedule for the most up-to-date information and see Patriot web to register for classes.