Social Studies

Each Mt. Vernon graduate must earn a total of 3 credits of Social Studies. They must also pass the U.S. Constitution Test and the U.S. Civics Exam. Below is a list of courses that count toward a Social Studies credit:

  • World History
  • World Cultures
  • Civil War
  • Government (Required)
  • Sociology
  • Psychology
  • American History (Required)
  • Modern American History - the U.S. in the Dot.com World

Course Description

World History

This course is a study of ancient and modern history from a global perspective. During the first semester, students will learn about the history and geography of the ancient world with a focus on the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, India, China, Greece, and Rome. Second semester includes the study of modern history beginning with the political and economic revolutions and tracking the transformation of the world.

Pre-Requisites: None

Civil War ½

This course will be an in-depth analysis of the coming of the war, considering the political, social, cultural issues and attitudes that drove a wedge between Americans. Sectional conflict centered on a series of questions that involved state rights, economics, the future of slavery and the southern way of life. The main portion of the will be spent discussing the military, political, and social history of the war years, both on the battlefields and the home fronts.

Pre-Requisites: None


American History

This course is a required course and will study American History thru the 20th Century and into the 21st century. We will explore the history of the United States in the 1900's and examine how that history affects us in our world today.

Pre-Requisites: None

Modern American History - the U.S. in the Dot.com World ½

This course is an elective Social Studies course that will examine the recent history of our country as we have moved into the 21st century. We will explore the trends and topics of the Modern History that has shaped our country.

Pre-Requisites: American History


American Government ½

The study of American Government helps students develop a better understanding of the foundations of our democracy and how to participate as a responsible citizen.

Pre-Requisites: N/A But usually take during Junior year

Psychology ½

This course provides an overview of the scientific study of human behavior.

Pre-Requisites: Junior/Senior Social Studies Elective

Sociology ½

Sociology is the study of human social relationships and institutions.

Pre-Requisites: Junior/Senior Social Studies Elective

World Cultures ½

World Cultures is a people-centered study involving an in-depth look at the world’s major cultures. The study of cultures will include historical background, geography, family life and structure, social organizations, forms of government, religious beliefs, economic and political trends, and the intellectual and artistic accomplishments of the people within the culture.

Pre-Requisites: Junior/Senior Social Studies Elective