<p>How hard/involved are upper div history classes? I want to learn some history next semester, but I don't want to learn only history. :)</p>
<p>Also, how big are they? I'm hoping to be in a 20 person or smaller class if that's possible.</p>
<p>
[quote]
How hard/involved are upper div history classes?
[/quote]
</p>
<p>It really depends on the specific class. </p>
<p>I would say about half the upper divs are intro classes to specific periods/countries. Those classes usually run 50-80 people. (For example, Intro to Brazil, Intro to 20th century Europe.) These classes aren't very hard. Usually there is little contact between professors and students. Usually there is no section. Papers graded by readers. Tests usually come directly from lecture + doable readings.</p>
<p>Other classes, known as seminars, are much smaller (not more than 15 people) and specialized (for example, history of medieval clothing.) These classes are no walk in the park (you have to apply for them and for the most popular ones, they will reject students who aren't up to "standard.") But this is your chance to really get to know a professor, who will grade your work. Beware of graduate students who enrolle in the seminars because the specialized subject wasn't available at their undergrad institution. If you think you can handle it, I suggest applying to a seminar.</p>
<p>Between these two extremes is the 100 series. 100s are specialized lectures ("Chinese Popular Culture") where time is often spent in professor-led discussion. Papers/tests are usually not graded by professors (good or bad, depending on how you look at it.)</p>
<p>Thanks. Do the introduction classes usually fill up in phase 1, or is it okay to wait until phase 2 to sign up?</p>