History at Glendale Community College

Glendale Community College's Associate of Arts in History is a worthwhile investment, particularly for students planning to transfer to a four-year university or seeking to develop foundational analytical and research skills. The program's cost is significantly lower than a bachelor's degree, with annual tuition and fees for public two-year students averaging around $3,990. While direct career outcomes with an associate's degree are often entry-level, the skills gained are highly transferable. For instance, graduates can pursue roles like Research Assistant or Paralegal, with potential entry-level salaries ranging from $35,000 to $50,000. The true value often lies in its role as a cost-effective stepping stone towards a bachelor's degree, which opens up a wider array of higher-paying career opportunities and a stronger long-term return on investment.

With an Associate's degree in History from Glendale Community College, you can pursue various entry-level positions or use it as a foundation for further education. Potential job titles include Research Assistant, where you'd support data collection and analysis; Paralegal, assisting lawyers with legal research and documentation; Archivist Assistant, helping to manage and preserve historical records; and Museum Technician, supporting museum operations and collections. These roles are found in industries such as law firms, government agencies, educational institutions, libraries, archives, museums, and non-profit organizations. The median salary for these types of roles can range from $45,000 to $65,000, depending on the specific position and location.

Earnings for History graduates vary significantly based on the credential level and career path. For those holding an associate's degree, entry-level positions might typically earn between $35,000 and $50,000 annually. As graduates gain experience and potentially pursue further education (like a bachelor's or master's degree), mid-career salaries can range from $55,000 to $85,000. Senior-level roles, often requiring advanced degrees and specialized expertise in fields such as historical consulting, policy analysis, or senior archival management, can command salaries exceeding $90,000 to $120,000. It's important to note that these figures are estimates and actual earnings depend on factors like industry, location, and specific job responsibilities.

The History program at Glendale Community College cultivates a powerful set of transferable skills highly valued by employers. You will develop strong critical thinking abilities, learning to analyze complex situations, identify underlying assumptions, and evaluate different perspectives. Extensive historical research skills will be honed, enabling you to locate, assess, and synthesize information from various sources. You will become proficient in source analysis, understanding how to interpret primary and secondary documents, recognize bias, and contextualize information. Furthermore, the program emphasizes both written and oral communication, teaching you to articulate your findings clearly, persuasively, and effectively in both written reports and presentations. These competencies are essential for success in a wide range of professional fields.

Yes, there is demand for History graduates, particularly for the analytical, research, and communication skills they possess. While direct historian roles might be limited, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects moderate growth for related occupations like archivists, curators, and museum technicians (around 6% through 2032). The broader demand stems from industries that require critical thinking and information synthesis. For example, fields like market research, intelligence analysis, policy advising, journalism, and law consistently seek individuals who can process complex information, understand context, and communicate findings effectively. The increasing volume of data and the need for historical perspective in decision-making ensure a continued, albeit evolving, demand for history-trained professionals.

Glendale Community College's Associate of Arts in History program is comparable to similar associate-level history programs at other community colleges. Its primary strength lies in providing a foundational curriculum at a significantly lower cost than a four-year university. The national average tuition and fees for public two-year in-district students was approximately $3,990 for the 2023-2024 academic year, making GCC's program highly affordable. While the curriculum covers essential historical methodologies and critical thinking skills, it is designed as a transfer degree. Compared to bachelor's programs, it offers a more focused introduction rather than specialized depth. The value proposition is high for students seeking an affordable entry point into higher education or a pathway to transfer, rather than a terminal degree for immediate high-level employment.

Admission to Glendale Community College, and by extension its History program, is generally open to all high school graduates or GED recipients, as well as individuals aged 18 or older who can benefit from college study. Specific requirements typically include submitting a completed application form, providing proof of high school graduation or equivalent, and potentially taking placement tests for English and Math to determine appropriate course placement. There are no specific prerequisite courses required for entry into the History associate's degree program itself, but foundational English and reading comprehension skills are crucial for success. Prospective students are encouraged to visit the GCC Admissions office or the college website for the most current and detailed information regarding application deadlines, required documentation, and any orientation or advising sessions.