ASU makes learning U.S. history and earning college credit simple

Understanding the United States’ past — its conflicts, achievements and ongoing struggles — helps us better understand the world we live in today. History gives context to current debates, reveals how change happens and sharpens our ability to think critically about the future.

If you’re looking to fulfill general education requirements, earn affordable college credit or simply deepen your understanding of early American history,  Arizona State University’s Universal Learner Course United States to 1865 offers a flexible place to start. Designed and taught by ASU faculty, this college-level course explores the nation’s development from the pre-Columbian era through the Civil War while helping learners build skills that extend far beyond the history classroom.

Learn more than names and dates

This course goes beyond memorizing timelines. Learners examine early U.S. history through diverse perspectives, asking critical questions about how social, political and cultural forces shaped the nation. Along the way, you’ll strengthen foundational academic skills, including:

• Historical analysis and interpretation
• Academic research and source evaluation
• Structured writing and persuasive argumentation
• Reading comprehension and synthesis

These skills are essential across majors and careers, helping learners gain confidence in college-level work.

Earn general education credit — without the risk

Because United States to 1865 is an ASU Universal Learner Course, it’s open to everyone. There’s no application, GPA requirement or transcript needed to enroll. Learners start the course for $25 and only pay to add it to their transcript if they pass and are satisfied with their grade. The course can fulfill general education requirements at ASU and may transfer to other colleges and universities.

Who benefits from this course?

• High school students can get a head start on college, saving time and money while proving they’re ready for college-level work.
• Educators and future teachers can refresh their content knowledge and explore early U.S. history through inquiry-based learning that enhances classroom practice.
• Lifelong learners and history enthusiasts can explore America’s past at their own pace, without pressure to earn credit.

A flexible path into college learning

ASU Universal Learner Courses are designed around real lives and real goals. With more than 60 courses available, learners can explore subjects they care about, earn college credit and experience high-quality university learning — all in a low-risk, self-paced format.

Whether you’re preparing for college or learning for personal growth, United States to 1865 offers an accessible way to explore history while building skills for what comes next.