Maryland House Bill HB330

Maryland 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/22
• Refer: 1/19/22

Caption

Higher Education - Undergraduate Degree Requirement - United States History Course

Impact

The implementation of HB 330 is likely to have a significant impact on the curriculum and academic standards within Maryland's public universities and colleges. Institutions will need to integrate the United States history course into their degree programs, which may affect the course offerings and degree planning for many students. This could also lead to discussions regarding resource allocation as schools prepare to hire qualified instructors to teach this mandated course.

Summary

House Bill 330 requires that all undergraduate students at public institutions of higher education in Maryland pass a course in United States history as a prerequisite for earning their undergraduate degrees. This legislative action aims to ensure that graduates have a foundational understanding of U.S. history, which proponents argue is vital for fostering informed citizenship. By making such a course a requirement, the bill intends to enhance students' comprehension of historical contexts that shape society today.

Contention

Despite its educational intentions, the bill has faced contention regarding its imposition of a uniform curriculum across diverse educational institutions. Critics have expressed concerns that such mandated courses may limit academic freedom and the ability of universities to tailor their educational offerings to better meet the needs and interests of their student populations. Additionally, there may be disputes over what content is included in the history course, raising questions about potential biases in historical interpretation and the adequacy of coverage regarding various cultural and social narratives.