The College Fix highlighted findings from the Martin Center’s new report, 50-State Comparison: Civics Education, authored by Shannon Watkins, our Research and Policy Fellow. The report reveals that only 14 states require civics courses in college general education programs and warns that many universities have neglected to teach American history and constitutional principles. Watkins argues that requiring college students to take a civics course covering fundamental American documents would be a “significant first step” toward improving civic literacy nationwide.
The report also recommends implementing a civics literacy test modeled on the U.S. citizenship exam, conducting regular civic knowledge surveys, and ensuring that future teachers take at least one course in American history or politics. Martin Center president Jenna A. Robinson emphasized that, as the U.S. approaches its 250th anniversary, civic understanding is more vital than ever. The findings have sparked broader discussion about the decline of civics in higher education and the need to restore focus on America’s founding principles.
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