History and Culture

  • Explores Varying Interpretations of Historic Events
  • Identifies Patterns and Trends
  • Provides Lively Discussion and Debate

To understand the present, we first must know the past. These courses focus on the origins of civilization, explore the causes and effects of world events, and debate conflicting interpretations of past events. From the world stage to New York City’s five boroughs, examine how history impacts our lives today.

This semester, study in-person or from anywhere in the world from the safety and comfort of your home through online or remote instruction.

The Glorious Country Houses and Palaces of Scotland

Discover the many impressive houses and palaces of Scotland that have played a significant role in history and popular culture.

2023 Spring
1 section

The Next New York City

Explore New York City’s role as a “World City” and how it will change in the future.

2023 Spring
2 sections

US Foreign Relations: 1600s to 1970s

Trace the development of the United States as a superpower, from the 19th century to the Vietnam War.

2023 Spring
1 section

New York City: From "Mannahatta" Through the Gilded Age

Study New York City’s history, from the earliest European encounters with Native Algonquian peoples to the Gilded Age.

2023 Spring
1 section

Vietnam and the Road to Watergate: Lessons from the Johnson and Nixon Tapes

Gain new insights into the Vietnam War and Watergate by examining recorded conversations.

2023 Spring
1 section

21st Century Saudi Arabia: The Politics of Cultural Heritage Preservation

Explore the archeological sites of Saudi Arabia and their role in Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry today.

2023 Spring
1 section

Exploring the Two CRTs: Critical Race Theory and Culturally Responsive Teaching

Understand what CRT really means and explore the debate around Critical Race Theory and Culturally Responsive Teaching.

2023 Spring
1 section

Central Europe 1848-1948: From Empires and Revolutions to the Dawn of the Cold War

Register for this Fall 2022 course on the new NYU SPS Academy of Lifelong Learning website. This course will analyze the geopolitical...

Georgian England: Cities of Elegance and Art

Explore England’s historic cities and discover the splendors of the Georgian era.

 

The Supreme Court and Issues of Church and State

Explore the Religion Clauses of the First Amendment and the Supreme Court’s decisions about religion in recent years.

The United States Supreme Court in the 21st Century

Explore the United States Supreme Court’s major decisions during the last 20 years.