The early decisions that shaped America

History helps us understand how societies are formed, how power is exercised and how ideas shape the world we live in. 

Early U.S. history college course is a college-level course that examines the people, events and ideas that shaped the British North American colonies and the early United States, ending with the Civil War.

The course emphasizes historical thinking rather than memorization. Learners examine evidence, evaluate arguments and consider multiple perspectives to better understand how the United States developed and why those early choices continue to matter.

HST 109 is offered through ASU Universal Learner Courses, a catalog of online ASU courses open to learners of all ages. You can take the course to explore the subject, prepare for future study or earn college credit — the choice is yours.

How HST 109 works

HST 109 follows the ASU Universal Learner Courses model, which gives learners flexibility in how and whether college credit fits into their goals.

• Register for $25 to access the full course, including ASU faculty-designed instruction and all digital learning materials.
• Complete the course and receive a final grade. The course is offered on demand or in an 8-week session, depending on your preferred pace.
• Decide whether to add the course to your ASU transcript for $400. Transcripting the course is optional. If you choose not to add credit, nothing appears on your ASU academic record.

Universal Learner Courses are designed to give learners options — whether that means earning credit, exploring a subject before committing further or learning for personal or professional interest.

What you’ll study in HST 109

HST 109 examines early U.S. history through an inquiry-based approach that highlights continuity, change and diverse perspectives.

Indigenous societies and early North America
Recognize the diversity of Indigenous cultures in North America prior to colonization and examine how early encounters shaped later developments.

Colonial America and the Atlantic world
Study the social, economic and political forces that shaped the British North American colonies, including the causes and consequences of the Atlantic slave trade.

Revolutionary origins and nation-building
Analyze how the United States’ colonial and Revolutionary origins influenced its institutions, values and early national development.

Growth and transformation
Identify key political, economic, technological and cultural developments that reshaped the United States between independence and the mid-19th century.

Diverse perspectives and experiences
Examine the viewpoints and lived experiences of Americans from different backgrounds to better understand conflict, cooperation and inequality.

The Civil War
Explore the causes, tensions and outcomes that led to the Civil War and reshaped the nation in 1865.

How historical thinking applies beyond the course

HST 109 builds skills that extend beyond the study of history, including:

• Evaluating evidence and arguments in contemporary discussions
• Understanding how historical narratives are constructed and challenged
• Recognizing how past institutions and decisions influence present-day society
• Communicating complex ideas clearly and persuasively

Who this course is for

HST 109 is commonly taken by learners who want a flexible way to engage with college-level U.S. history, including:

• High school students earning optional college credit
• College-bound learners completing general studies requirements
• Future educators strengthening historical content knowledge
• Adult and lifelong learners of all ages interested in American history

Learners decide for themselves whether the course is taken for enrichment, preparation or credit.

College credit, transcript and transfer details

If you choose to transcript HST 109, the course appears on your ASU transcript the same way it does for students who take the course on campus. The transcript includes course attendance dates and session information. HST 109 carries 3 credit hours and satisfies ASU’s American Institutions (AMIT) general studies requirement.

Transfer policies vary by institution. Learners who plan to use the credit elsewhere should confirm transfer applicability with the receiving school before requesting a transcript.

FAQs

How much does HST 109 cost to start?
Registration costs $25. Adding the course to your ASU transcript is optional and costs $400.

Do I have to earn credit?
No. Universal Learner Courses can be taken with or without transcripted credit.

How long does the course take?
The course is offered on demand or in an 8-week format.

Does HST 109 satisfy general studies requirements?
Yes. When transcripted, HST 109 satisfies ASU’s American Institutions (AMIT) general studies requirement.

Next steps

Explore American History: United States to 1865 (HST 109) course page to learn more.