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 City and the Book: Florence, Venice, London, New York
Explore the history of books from the illuminated manuscripts of the Renaissance to the mass market paperbacks of...
Tudor England: The Great Country Houses
Explore the great country houses of 16th century Tudor...
A Holistic Look at Iran: Economics, Religion, Politics, and More
Take a holistic look at the various aspects of Iran: environment, ethnolinguistic composition, religious proclivities, economics, and politics.
Consequential and Controversial Presidential Decisions
Analyze the electoral process, including the anger and venom that have been part of US presidential elections since 1796.
Exuberant Splendors: The Baroque Palaces and Mansions of 17th-century Europe
Explore magnificent palaces and mansions in England, France, Italy, Holland, and Sweden, to reveal the architecture, interiors, and decorative...
International Relations
Gain an in-depth understanding of the post-Cold War world order and the Cold War’s impact on current geopolitical and economic landscapes.
Preserving Historic Neighborhoods
Gain a community-based view of how neighborhoods use the New York City Landmarks Law to determine the future of their communities.
The Evolution of American Free Speech
Explore the key free speech debates that have demarcated the boundaries of what can—and cannot—be said in the United States.
The History of Controversial Supreme Court Cases
Explore the history of controversial Supreme Court cases and the country’s reaction to them.
The Immigration Act of 1924: 100 Years Later
The Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Oscar Handlin famously wrote, “Once I thought to write a history of the immigrants in America. Then I...
From Manors to Museums: Discovering the Treasures of Victorian England
Explore the fascinating architecture, interiors, decorative arts, and fine arts of Victorian...
Great Trials in American History
Examine influential and controversial trials and decisions that have affected American history.
Spies at War: Fact vs. Fiction
Register for this Fall 2023 course on the new NYU SPS Academy of Lifelong Learning website. World War II was a critical challenge...
Global Hotspots Through Foreign Film
Watch powerful foreign films that serve as catalysts for post-screening discussions about present-day issues in the associated geopolitical regions.