4.1

Daniel McDonough

History - University of Tennessee at Martin

4.1
Quality
3.6
Difficulty
71%
Would Retake
137
Reviews
4.1
Quality
3.6
Difficulty
4.1
Helpful
4.1
Clarity

71%

Would Retake

137

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

81

4

30

3

10

2

4

1

12

What Students Say

Assigns long essays, and then tells you that you didn't go into enough detail

HONR41979 - 3.0 rating

If you hate history find someone easier

HIST201 - 5.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

45%

Textbook Required

75%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

95% confidence
Based on 43 grades
Most common grades:
A (13)
A+ (6)
C (4)
Grade Distribution
A(19)B(6)C(4)D(3)F(4)A-/B+(7)
Based on 46 reported grades
A: 13
A+: 6
C: 4
B+: 4
Common Tags
Skip class? You won't pass. (12)
Tough grader (12)
Tough Grader (11)
Get ready to read (11)
Lecture heavy (10)
LECTURE HEAVY (6)
Hilarious (5)
Gives good feedback (4)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.37 avg change
Dec
Nov
Dec
Jan
Jul
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

310

5.0

(1)

415461

5.0

(1)

462202414

5.0

(1)

HIST210

5.0

(1)

HIST310

5.0

(1)
+34 more courses
Difficulty by Course

414

5.0

415461

5.0

COLONIALH

5.0

HST

5.0

HISTORY201

5.0

Reviews (137)
5.0
3.0
HIST201
Nov 7, 2002

Great teacher

4.0
5.0
414
Dec 6, 2002

great lectures spends too long b.s.ingGrades harder than lecture style indicates

5.0
4.0
HIST210
Dec 10, 2002

AEWSOME! He really was a great teacher. I worked hard in his class. the best

3.0
5.0
201
Feb 26, 2003

lectures are interesting but his tests are outlandishly hard, he hard to talk to one-on-one

5.0
3.0
HIST310
Feb 28, 2003

Hard tests, good classes

5.0
5.0
415461
Mar 4, 2003

Excellent teacher! Had a great time in his classes, I took several of them. His classes are very challenging but well worth the effort. Also, he is a real cutie!!!

4.0
5.0
HST201
Mar 11, 2003

Lectures are very entertaining. Tests are extremely (emphasize extremely) difficult. The hardest C I ever worked for.

1.0
5.0
HIST201
Mar 17, 2003

No Comments

3.0
5.0
HISTORY
May 8, 2003

He is engaging and fun to listen to. However, he grades like he teaches at Harvard, but he spends the first 15 or 20 minutes of class playing and talking sports. If he taught the entire class period and then graded hard, I wouldn't mind, that I did mind!

5.0
3.0
HIST201
Jul 11, 2003

I LOVED Dr. McDonough! His tests were difficult, but only for someone who doesn't study. He never puts anything on his tests that he did not go over in class. Very fair and very funny!

5.0
3.0
HIS201202
Aug 6, 2003

Awesome professor. However, don't get so caught up in the lecture that you forget to take notes. ANYTHING he says is fair game for tests- and they're hard! Always helpful, very fair.

5.0
3.0
HST201
Aug 9, 2003

Very knowledgable about History and he is a great lecturer!! take good notes listen, and read and his class is a piece of cake!!!

5.0
5.0
COLONIALH
Nov 12, 2003

Grades too hard. You will love his class but hate his grading, unless you have a photographic memory. Overall great teacher and good guy. Lectures are great. Hope Little Dan survives once he starts asking for help on homework!

2.0
5.0
HST
Nov 12, 2003

If you've never found history interesting, take his class! He makes it entertaining and REAL - like he was there. Be prepared to study -- the hardest tests EVER!

5.0
3.0
HST202
Nov 12, 2003

He is a great teacher is test are easy.If you know the idea list you can past. After you leave is his class you wil find history very interesting and fun.

4.0
4.0
HIST
Nov 16, 2003

Grades too strictly, goes over material too quickly, uses family as a reference too often.

5.0
4.0
HIST461
Nov 21, 2003

Great lectures, excellent learning atmosphere in classroom, explains occurances with great detail & ease to understand. Tough tests though, have to know your stuff.

1.0
5.0
HST201
Dec 5, 2003

Warning: This professors tests are fill in the blank and essay- so if you've never been good with names (or dates) to begin with don't take him! Lecture is also confusing, and not helpful for material on the exam.

2.0
5.0
HST201
Jan 3, 2004

Professor expects way too much from students. Do not take his class if you are a full time student- either your grade in this class or other classes will suffer.

4.0
3.0
201
Mar 4, 2004

Trys to be funny but not.

5.0
3.0
201
Apr 6, 2004

He may not be easy, but he is easy to learn from. He applies history to real life all of the time. He even gets students involved in learning. You have to study more than with some teachers, but you will learn.

5.0
3.0
310
Apr 13, 2004

Probably the hardest teacher in the department, BUT he (like all the other history teachers) will bend over backwards to help you out, and to make sure you understand the subject material, cool guy, down to earth, laid back.

4.0
5.0
HISTORY
Apr 16, 2004

Hates women! He's a fun prof, but he doesn't think females are as good as males. After I was out of his class, he would never acknowledge my existence. He also will b.s. about his family and sports about 1/3 of the class, then grade like it's Harvard.

5.0
2.0
HIST201
Nov 22, 2004

Great teacher, fun an exciting! Not too hard. Knows his stuff!

5.0
4.0
HIST201
Dec 12, 2004

He's a really nice guy and does a great job of explaining history. He can kind of draw things out, but usually keeps things from getting too boring. Watch out for the quizzes!

4.0
4.0
HST414
Dec 14, 2004

Great teacher...although he's obsessed with sports.

5.0
1.0
HISTORY
Dec 16, 2004

Obsessed with Red Sox, still Red Hot!

4.0
3.0
201202
Dec 17, 2004

He is an okay teacher. Will help you out if you need help. His exams are fill in the blank, True/Flase, & matching. There is also an essay on every test which is worth 60 pts of your entire test grade. The essay can make or break your test grade. Be prepared to STUDY STUDY & MEMORIZE!!!

5.0
3.0
HIST201
Jan 4, 2005

This guy is awesome. His tests are ok but the essays are hard. Make sure you study hard before tests and you will be ok. He is the funniest teacher i have had and often gets behind because of him telling jokes.A++++

5.0
3.0
HIST201
Feb 15, 2005

Funniest professor on campus and cares very much about the student. Tests can be pretty rough but just study your notes and you should do fine. Guy should be a comedian.

5.0
3.0
HISTORY414415
Mar 26, 2005

Dr. Dan is my advisor, and he is my fraternity's advisor. He is by far my favorite professor on campus. His classes are fun and he does a great job teaching the material. His tests are hard if you miss a lot of class, but if you do not miss a lot you should do fine. His class is worth going to.

5.0
3.0
HIST415
Mar 28, 2005

Dr. Dan is the man. He is the greatest teacher I have ever had. He's so enthusiastic and makes the class fun to participate in. If he wasn't married, I would be first in line (if I was Irish Catholic). The material is interesting, and he is a very fair grader.

5.0
3.0
HISTORY
Apr 5, 2005

He is hilarious, down to earth, and makes you love history and have interest in history. He is also a great story teller. He also loves his son "Lil Dan".

5.0
4.0
HIST
Apr 6, 2005

Makes history fun. Uses real world examples to help you understand. Upper division tests are hard. Lower division stuff is much easier. Go to class, 90% out of lecture very little from the book.

5.0
4.0
HONORS112
Apr 7, 2005

Dr. Dan was a phenomenal teacher. Granted, his tests are very difficult, but his lectures are interesting and funny. You'll learn a lot from him, and if one day you don't feel like having class, get him to talk about his kids; he'll go the whole class talking about 'em.

1.0
5.0
HISTORY201
May 14, 2005

take some one else

4.0
5.0
HISTORY201
Jul 7, 2005

I would reccommend you to take someone else. Tests are hard and concist of true/false, fill in the blank and an essay worth 60 points. He is interesting and can keep your attention. Also you will have one mandatory paper due in his class and quizzes occassionally. Does not always go by the syllabus.

5.0
1.0
HISTORY201202
Grade: C
Aug 22, 2005

Dr. Dan doesn't give hard tests. Students who don't come to class make them hard. Everything on the tests is covered in the lectures. Tests are a breeze if you come to class. He is a great teacher...one of the best on campus. Take him for any history course you can.

5.0
4.0
TRIVIABOWL2004
Aug 30, 2005

Ah, what else can i say about "Dirty-Dan" McDonough! He is a great guy, A great teacher, and a somewhat ruthless trivia bowl moderator! If it wasnt for our excessive brilliance, we wouldnt have won last year. "Dirty" Dan is great! The a

5.0
1.0
MILHISTORY
Sep 5, 2005

No Comments

5.0
2.0
BRITHISTORY
Grade: A
Sep 9, 2005

Dr. McDonough got me hooked on history. He was the first teacher I've had who made it interesting. He's also an extremely nice individual. If you only take one history class, make sure it's his!

4.0
3.0
HONORS111
Grade: A-
Nov 8, 2005

He was a good teacher. He has a tendency to get off topic a little bit, but he is very interesting.

5.0
4.0
SEVERALONES
Mar 27, 2006

The absolute best professor I have ever had, both at UT Martin and in my graduate program. He makes the subject interesting and personal (and history is sooooooooo easy to make boring). And, he remembers everyone's name. I saw him recently--I graduated several years ago--and he still remembered me.

5.0
1.0
HIST414
Nov 9, 2006

I always love taking Dr. Dan!! it is the fourth time I have taking him and he gets better and better!! He is a GREAT lecturer and brings history to your level. His tests are EASY if you STUDY!! His notes are what you go by!! But do read the books, they DO help. You will have fun with Dr. Dan!!

4.0
4.0
HIST201
Sep 30, 2007

McDonough is great in class. He seems very easy, and makes it easy if you study. The first quiz of the semester made me realize that you MUST study your notes. "I wont test you out of the book unless i specifically mention it. It's not fair for me to test you over something that I didnt deem important enough to go over in class"-Dr. Dan. Do it!

5.0
4.0
HIST201
Dec 16, 2007

Dr. Dan is a nice guy. He makes class lots of fun, and makes the best/corniest jokes ever. His tests are hard, but doable if you study hard. He doesn't test over material unless he goes over it in class, ore tells you it's in the book. Take him if you want to learn history, but don't if you want a cake walk. Dr. Dan=<3

4.0
4.0
HIST201
Dec 24, 2007

personable

5.0
4.0
HIST462
Jul 20, 2008

Like going to the movies ever other day! My only disappointment: Dr. Dan glossed over Muslim terrorists & the Barbary Wars of the Jefferson Administration. I thought for sure UTM would cover this somewhere as Dr. Barber also left it out of his African History course. Then again, I guess it's not PC to speak badly of terrorists today.

5.0
5.0
HIST201
Aug 2, 2008

First off I want to mention that I only say he is hard because you MUST study. He will not hand out grades! If you earn an A that is what you get. He is willing to go over information again and again until everyone in the class fully understands the information. He really makes history come to life! He is the best professor of history I've ever had

5.0
4.0
HIST201
Aug 10, 2008

I HATED HISTORY UNTIL I TOOK HIS 201 CLASS!!!! seriously! you have to study his notes to pass the class.. dont get behind.. If you dont go to class, dont take him.. ALL OF HIS TESTS COME FROM HIS NOTES!!!! he is a great teacher and one of my favorites on campus!

5.0
3.0
HIST410
Oct 30, 2008

THE BEST HISTORY TEACHER EVER, HIM AND DR. COFFEE TIE! He is very clear on his subject. He helps you anytime and with anything! You have to know your stuff on test, but he gives you all the info you need for them! I STRONGLY ADVISE ANYONE TO TAKE HIS CLASS!!

5.0
2.0
HIST201
Dec 29, 2008

GREAT TEACHER!! Ask basic questions on tests which usually consist of multiple choice, T/F, and Short Answer. Be very specific on short answer. DO NOT BUY THE TEXT BOOK. Will use the little books though.

5.0
3.0
HIST201
Jan 7, 2009

he is a very interesting teacher and loves history. his tests are quite hard but is very understanding and is willing to help anyone.

3.0
3.0
HIST480
Nov 3, 2009

Dr. Dan's class is not bad. Dr. Dan's not a bad professor. Would I take him again? I wouldn't object completely.

5.0
3.0
HONR200
Dec 9, 2009

Great teacher, really interesting, BUT he is super critical grading papers, it takes a LONG time to get them back, and you definitely do better on papers if you agree with his viewpoints. Overall he's a really enjoyable teacher to have. I'd take him again!

2.0
4.0
HONOR200
Dec 30, 2009

Special Topics Course on History in Film. All we had were papers and quizzes. Picky questions on Quizzes and the papers were impossible to figure out what he really wanted. Went to ask for help, but pointless. His History 202 class was pretty easy and great, but not this one. He's a wonderful man, though.

2.0
4.0
HONR200
Jul 13, 2010

The version of the course that I took was called 'Hollywood History.' We got to watch movies in class but our assignment was to write a paper on the movies and Dr. McDonough graded them very strictly. The quizzes were also very tough. This was a Special Topics course so it won't be offered again. Great teacher, but he's tough!

5.0
3.0
HIST201
Oct 18, 2010

I LOVE Dr. McDonough, he's very helpful, and really funny in a quirky way. Also, if ever he brings his son to class, BE NICE TO HIM, he'll immediately like you. If he sees you make the effort, he'll give you the grade you prefer. Never use your book though, it's basically just a coaster at my house. Definitely take him if you need history!

5.0
3.0
HIST201
Oct 18, 2010

I LOVE Dr. McDonough, he's very helpful, and really funny in a quirky way. Also, if ever he brings his son to class, BE NICE TO HIM, he'll immediately like you. If he sees you make the effort, he'll give you the grade you prefer. Never use your book though, it's basically just a coaster at my house. Definitely take him if you need history!

5.0
2.0
HIST202
Apr 6, 2011

Dr. Dan is a great professor and truly loves history! He incorporates personal stories to help elaborate on the topics he discusses in class. Strictly lecture with outline on the board. Quizzes are fairly easy but tests are quite difficult. Remember a lot of detail and be specific. Only one paper worth 30%. Study hard and guaranteed an A!

5.0
3.0
HIST414
May 26, 2011

Class was enjoyable, not something I ever wanted to miss. The tests will kill you. The essay isn't easy if it's your first history essay. Put your best foot forth and make an effort to correct your misunderstandings. Dr. Dan notices if you really care about the subject.

4.0
2.0
HIST201
Nov 10, 2011

He is a good teacher. He makes History very interesting. He is very clear on what he wants you to know & gives you a list of terms that will be on each test. You only have to do one essay. Tests are NOT multiple choice so STUDY! If you go to class everyday, take notes, & study.. You will be fine!

5.0
3.0
HIST201
Nov 11, 2011

Dr. McDonough is a very interesting fellow. He keeps the class light and funny, but you still learn a lot. Attendance is mandatory if you plan on making a B or A. There is one five-page paper, three quizzes, and three tests. He drops the lowest quiz grade. His tests are not the easiest. Many word questions. Go to class and study. EXCELLENT teacher!

5.0
3.0
HIST461
Nov 12, 2011

Dr. Dan is awesome! He loves history and makes everything interesting. He's hilarious, and a wonderful teacher. I would recommend him for any history class.

5.0
3.0
HIST201
Dec 14, 2011

dr. dan is a really great teacher. he is funny and explains everything with analogies during lectures. take notes and very briefly look over the document book and you will make an A. my favorite class of college yet and im taking him for 202. the paper sounds hard but it really isnt. take this teacher, you won't regret it

5.0
2.0
HIST202
Apr 2, 2012

He is super funny and loves to make jokes in class. I am going to take every class I possibly can with him. His tests are easy (if you take notes) and he likes to tell stories to help you relate the topic to your life and make it easier to understand.

5.0
4.0
HIST201
Oct 18, 2012

Attend the lecture, take notes, read documents, and you can make a good grade. Tests are extremely difficult because of the discussion questions. BE COMPLETE. Personally, I recommend having a recorder for this class.

5.0
2.0
HIST201
Nov 7, 2012

I had Dr. McDonough for History 201 and 202. He's a great professor! He takes attendance a few times just to learn names but that's it. I advise going to class because he talks and you write. Quizzes are easy and tests are in the middle. His class is not an easy A, you have to study but he's very entertaining! I loved him! Papers are toughly graded

5.0
2.0
HIST202
Nov 14, 2012

go to class, take notes. You will make an A. His test are not hard. Theres 15 discussion questions but if your complete you will receive full credit. He doesnt require you to write ny papers. His lectures are great he keeps you intrested with his own stories relating to the subject. I am definitley taking him for 202.

5.0
4.0
HIST201
Dec 12, 2012

He is a great professor but his tests are pretty tough. There are 10 fill in the blank 10 true or false and 15 essay. If you take notes the test material is easy except for the fact that he tells you to be complete and no matter how much you write he finds something to mark off for. However, I learned a lot in his class and he is a great professor.

5.0
3.0
HIST202
Apr 12, 2013

Great history teacher. I never liked history until I had him and now it's my favorite class. I wouldn't say his class is "easy" but if you take good notes and study before tests and quizzes, you'll do fine. I have learned SO much this semester. He really makes history interesting. I would recommend him to anyone.

5.0
3.0
HIST202
Apr 23, 2013

This is my second time taking him and I find the class very enjoyable. He really likes for people to go to his office with questions. To get all the material for the exams, you have to go to class. It may require minimal studying, but keep in mind he likes detail on the exams.

5.0
3.0
HIST202
May 2, 2013

Grades exams tough. Like I was never complete enough. Fun professor though. If you are a hardcore studier, you might be able to be more complete than me. But I studied for 6-8 hours each exam, and was never complete enough. I do recommend him though. He makes lectures fun!

4.0
4.0
HIST201
Oct 1, 2013

Pay attention to lectures and small details! Fun class, but tests are hard. Not an easy A class!

5.0
2.0
HIST202
Dec 30, 2013

I loved this class! I've taken 201 and his classes are fun and interesting. He always makes sure wvryone in the class is up to speed and as long as you take good notes and actually study for the tests and quizzes you'll do great!

5.0
3.0
HIST461
Dec 31, 2013

He is one of the best lecture preofesors i have ever taken at UTM. very passionate about history and makes you intersted as well. Exams are hard, but if you attend class and take notes you will get a good grade.

5.0
4.0
HIST201
Mar 20, 2014

Dr. McDonough is an excellent teacher and I would recommend him to anyone. He teaches by lecture, but is very clear. If you're confused he has no problem going over it again. Very open to students coming to his office. Same format for all tests/quizzes, But list EVERYTHING you know for discussion questions- be very thorough! Loved this class!

5.0
4.0
HIST202
Mar 31, 2014

Pay attention, take notes, and study!! Be extra thorough on his discussion questions!! He is a very tough tester, but if you study correctly, you will do fine. But you HAVE to study!!! His lectures are very interesting. He explains things very clearly and repeats important points so you can write them down.

5.0
2.0
462202414
Grade: A
May 2, 2014

I have taken one lower division class and one upper division with Dr. McDonough. He is a wonderful professor. Attendance is not mandatory but you NEED to go to class. His tests may seem difficult, but if you pay attention, study, and write everything down that you can, you can get an A. Ask him what he wants on the test! Super fun class.

5.0
5.0
202
May 9, 2014

He is VERY hard. You must be complete on all discussion questions. I'm taking it over with someone easier! He is helpful, but if your not a history major he is vey difficult!

3.0
4.0
HIST202
Aug 6, 2014

Let me start off by saying, Dr. McDonough is a really nice person. That being said, probably the most difficult class I've taken... You'd pretty much have to write his entire lecture to cover everything in the tests (which are insane). I wasn't very interested in the class however, and this could have had some effect.

5.0
3.0
HIST202
Oct 21, 2014

Dr. Mcdonough is a good professor compared to others. The man is quirky, but a good teacher. Notes must be taken over his lectures, and the documents book must be read, if you hope to pass this class. He expects very detailed answers on his tests, so STUDY!! Besides the toughness of his tests, I would definitely take him again!

3.0
4.0
HIST202
Grade: D
Nov 5, 2014

I don't know why everyone rates him so high!!!!!! He is AWFUL!!! Do not take Him!!! His tests are way too hard for a history class!!! He doesn't take in to consideration that we have other classes too, not just his!!! Just do yourself a favor and keep moving!!!!

5.0
4.0
201202
Nov 9, 2014

McDonough is hilarious, and he really knows and is passionate about his subject. He is expects very detailed answers, so pay close attention to his stories.

3.0
4.0
HIST202
Grade: C
Nov 12, 2014

Hardest class I've ever taken. He's very passionate about what he does, and he is a very nice and funny teacher. However, I would not take him again! His tests consist of 15 discussion questions among fill in the blank and truefalse, but if you are not complete on the discussion he counts off.

4.0
4.0
HIST202
Dec 13, 2014

Dr. McDonough had really good lectures; he's passionate about the material, which he teaches in great detail. However, this means he expects the tests to have detail as well. He is a tough grader!!!

3.0
5.0
HISTORY201
Grade: D+
Mar 17, 2015

He goes on and on forever about one thing and won't make his point about it until like 20 minutes later. His tests are super hard and he grades so hard. My average test grade was a 60% and I even went to him for help but still did terrible. He is a great guy and a decent teacher but if you don't test well don't take him.

4.0
4.0
201
Grade: A
Mar 18, 2015

Took him for 201 & 202. He is an awesome professor & he loves what he does. You just have to be willing to put the work in - have to go to class, take notes, & study them. Expects you to be thorough on his tests. Usually offers a bit of extra credit each semester. I just used spark notes for the books he has you buy & read and I still made an A.

5.0
4.0
HIST201
Grade: A+
Apr 9, 2015

Dr. McDonough is two things if nothing else: hilarious & tough. His lectures are amazing, and he makes history come alive. That said, his tests are some of the hardest I've had at UTM. If you know the material, you will do well, but if you try and bluff, you're probably going to fail. Work hard, and you can do great, but know that it isn't easy.

4.0
3.0
201
May 1, 2015

By far the best history course I have taken. Professor McDonough is excellent, he is passionate about the subject, and is more than willing to help any student. I made A's on all exams and quizzes. Buy the documents book, use sparknotes for readings, you don't need the text book, get a recorder, and take good notes. Put in the work.

5.0
5.0
HISTORY201
May 3, 2015

He grades so hard. If you don't write every single word that comes out of his mouth you're gonna fail so good luck losers.

5.0
4.0
201
Jul 3, 2015

Mr. McDonough is a great teacher because he is passionate and knowledgeable about what he teaches. His lecture are like story time and he makes it very interesting. The test and quizzes are next to impossible and those are many the only grades. If you are a history major or love history I would recommend him. It is not an easy A.

4.0
4.0
HIST201
Grade: A-
Nov 10, 2015

He makes sure you know the material. Write down every word he says. Good notes are key in the class. Sit in the front, let him know you are interested, and do talk to him. He gives lectures like they are a story. He is a great teacher, just gives tough tests: T/F, fill in the blank, and 15 discussion questions.

3.0
5.0
HONR41979
Grade: B-
Dec 7, 2015

Assigns long essays, and then tells you that you didn't go into enough detail. I don't think an entire novel's worth of information would satisfy him. He takes everything you say in your papers literally and adds sarcastic remarks in the margins when grading them. Sometimes he let class run way over, usually because he likes to ramble.

4.0
4.0
HIST201
Dec 10, 2015

If you don't describe on his tests whatever he asks, you're pretty much screwed. The test has a lot of description and even if you write a paragraph he will give you maybe 1 point correctness because he reads EVERYTHING!

4.0
3.0
HIST202
Grade: A
Dec 11, 2015

His tests are difficult, and his lectures are not always exciting. However, as long as you go to class, read the required books, and study the day before the tests... it's an easy A.

5.0
4.0
HIST202
Dec 12, 2015

Dr. McDonough is one of the most entertaining professors at UTM. He keeps class very interesting. He's hilarious! Do your readings, and study your notes. His grades his exams really hard, expect to put a lot of detail in your answers. Loved his class but it was no walk in the park.

3.0
4.0
HONR200
Grade: B
Jan 5, 2016

had him for night class (which i don't think will be offered for Honors200 after this semester) hes a nice guy and like to tell stories. his grading can be kind of off and sometimes his quizzes are little too difficult. but he is a great teacher and id recommend him but beware his history classes require papers and essay questions but its worth it.

4.0
4.0
HIST201
Grade: A+
Jan 13, 2016

He makes history a lot less boring. His lectures are very entertaining. You do have to study a lot. Take notes and define the terms. Read the novels. Go to the review sessions because he usually gives bonus points for attendance and they are really helpful.

5.0
4.0
HIS201202
Grade: A
Feb 8, 2016

McDonough is my favorite professor. I wish he taught more classes so I could take him more. His lectures are so in depth and fantastic and interesting. But, you HAVE to go to class. You HAVE to write down almost every word and be able to repeat it. The tests are very hard, but they're worth it. He makes me love history more. He's awesome.

5.0
4.0
HIST201
Grade: A
May 6, 2016

McDonough is a really good professor but he grades his tests really hard and expects you recite word for word what he said in lecture. He assigns some books to read but I got by without reading them but it was tough. Take him if you really like history cause you will learn a lot. If you hate history find someone easier.

4.0
4.0
HIST202
Grade: C
May 10, 2016

Dr. McDonough is a wonderful history professor, but if history is not your thing, then this class will be extremely difficult for you. His quizzes and tests are pretty difficult and if you do not know the material enough to write a paragraph explains: who, what, when, where, and why, then this may not be the class for you, but overall great!!

5.0
3.0
HIST202
Grade: B+
Nov 7, 2016
Would take again

He's hard but he tells you what to study, so you can't really fail it. Must go to class to get info

Gives good feedback
Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
5.0
HIST201
Grade: F
Nov 16, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Very Difficult professor to pass due to long lectures, hard grader, and only gives a long list of vocab terms which may or may not be on the exams,which leaves you confused in what to study for the test. Tests consist mostly of free response designed and gives extensive reading making it impossible to study. Highly recomend not to take his class.

Tough Grader
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
TEST HEAVY
1.0
5.0
HIST201
Grade: D+
Mar 27, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Class isn't mandatory but his test answers are exactly what he says in his lectures. I recorded every class and retook notes for every class. The only clues he gives you for what will be on test is a big vocal list. Very hard to understand what to study. I only passed 1 out of his 3 test. His 3 quizzes are over 3 separate books you have to read.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
5.0
3.0
HIS490
Grade: A
Mar 27, 2017
Would take again

He does not take attendance in upper level. He does have assigned readings that will benefit but are not crucial to passing. Attending class lecture is crucial to doing well on tests and quizzes. He is very personable, positive and caring towards his students. He gives a lot of feedback on essays/papers but he also gives credit where credit is due.

Gives good feedback
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
HIS201202
Jul 15, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Took McDonough for History 201 and 202. He makes class fun and enjoyable to attend, but be ready to take notes! His test are pretty difficult also!

ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Clear grading criteria
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
5.0
HIST201
Grade: F
Aug 18, 2017
Wouldn't take again

He doesn't use powerpoint and his lectures are told more like a story. it's hard to take notes that way (at least for me). His tests are HARD. You must be detail heavy or he will knock off points. He is a tough teacher but, if you study all times and read the books you may have a chance to pass. Possibly.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
4.0
HIST201
Grade: A
Aug 28, 2017
Would take again

McDonough is the best!! His exams are super hard (fill in blank, t/f, and discussion) but he always does his best to make sure his students are prepared. He gives extra credit for coming to review sessions which really helps. Study hard and an A is def possible!

Tough Grader
EXTRA CREDIT
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
5.0
HIST201
Oct 20, 2017
Wouldn't take again

He isn't a great professor. Most of his test are trick questions and they are all fill in the blank and true or false. He is by far the worst professor I have ever had. I am really not sure how he still has a job.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
4.0
4.0
HIST201
Grade: B+
Nov 18, 2017
Would take again

Im not really into history, but he makes it interesting. He makes class enjoyable, and is really helpful if you go see him in his office. His test are kind of hard but he gives extra credit for going to review sessions. Hes also really funny, but in like a dorky way. Just read the documents book and pay attention and you should be good!

Tough Grader
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
2.0
HIST101
Dec 8, 2017
Would take again

He is fair and really cares for his stufents

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
4.0
4.0
HIST202
Dec 9, 2017
Would take again

Dr. McDonough is one of the best history teachers I've had. He genuinely enjoys his job and it's fun to listen to him lecture. But, he does require a lot of outside reading. He gives 3 quizzes and 3 exams, and that's you are graded during the semester. Only take him if you want to work for your grade. Not overly hard, but you have to apply yourself

Get ready to read
TEST HEAVY
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
HIST461
Grade: B-
Feb 14, 2018
Would take again

My favorite teacher yet, would recommend him he is kind of tough just got to study his lists. He is a funny guy and you will hear plenty of funny stories

Tough Grader
Hilarious
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
4.0
HIST462
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 16, 2018
Would take again

McDonough is great. He's really funny & keeps things interesting. Seriously, I love his lectures. He gives three tests including the final. They are half essay and half IDs. I will tell you that although attendance isn't mandatory, it is necessary to do well on the tests so go to class. His upper level classes require a 15 page term paper.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
Hilarious
3.0
3.0
HIST201
Grade: B
Apr 22, 2018
Would take again

He taught the material well and made it easy to understand, but his tests aren't MC, but T/F, matching, fill in blank, and many discussion questions. You must attend class to get all notes, and you have to study to be able to pass. He did give extra credit, and I was able to raise my grade after learning his style. Not easy but not impossible

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
5.0
HIST201
May 7, 2018
Would take again

He is hilarious! His tests are really hard and you cant study the night before. Take lots of notes!!

Get ready to read
Hilarious
Skip class? You won't pass.
5.0
3.0
HIST202
May 22, 2018
Would take again

Have to attend class to get notes especially on what the quizzes and exams will be over! Not a difficult course if you study and do the reading!

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
4.0
HIS201202
Grade: A+
Nov 5, 2018
Would take again

I took Dr. McDonough for both of my history credits, and left wishing I could take more classes! If you are looking to make an easy A this isn't the class for you, but if you are genuinely interested in history and want to learn about it in a fun interactive environment I say go for it!

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
Hilarious
4.0
4.0
HIST202
Grade: A-
Apr 18, 2019
Would take again

The class is very enjoyable, and I found myself engaged in all the lectures. He is extremely educated on the content, but quite difficult on his tests. So be Ready! Some times he gets very long winded on points we got a long time ago and takes time to start class.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
HIST201
Grade: Rather not say
Apr 30, 2019
Wouldn't take again

This is by far the hardest class Ive ever taken. Hes such a tough grader. if you learn well by lecture alone, no powerpoints, no notes written on the board, Then this class may be for you. You must write while hes talking, which is very difficult for me. His test is not multiple choice, but long discussion questions/fill in the blank. Terrible.

Lecture heavy
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
HIST201
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 10, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Hes entirely too critical of every little answer. Hardest class Ive ever taken.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
5.0
4.0
HIST202
Grade: A+
Apr 4, 2020
Would take again

Dr. McDonough is probably one of the most involved professors Ive taken at UTM. He takes the time to get to know his students on a personal level. Although he is a super tough grader, if you take the time to learn the material and engage yourself in the class, its not too hard! He actually made me enjoy learning about history, which is difficult!

Skip class? You won't pass.
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
4.0
4.0
HIST202
Grade: B
May 26, 2020
Would take again

You have to go to class in order to do well in his class. His class is very lecture heavy but I took his class for two semesters and enjoyed it. If you have any questions go see him outside of class! He makes sure to tell you what you need to improve on in all of your tests, it is very useful so I recommend reading it.

Accessible outside class
Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
5.0
4.0
HIST414
Grade: A
Dec 16, 2021
Would take again

I avoided him throughout college because I had always heard he was picky. However, my last semester I was forced to take him. His lectures were as good as Dr. Coffey's. His class is a little more difficult, but he is an awesome professor.

Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
202
Grade: A+
Sep 29, 2022
Would take again

He is super nice, only does quiz and exams

Participation matters
Amazing lectures
Inspirational
4.0
3.0
201
Grade: B+
Jan 24, 2023
Would take again

He is very strict to grading but gives you extra credit opportunities. Like going to review sessions before exams. His class is super fun, you can tell he loves teaching and he makes jokes and has a great personality, he doesnt hold back so be prepared. He is helpful and its not hard to take notes. But show up to class and youll be fine

Tough grader
EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
4.0
3.0
201
Grade: C
May 6, 2023
Would take again

+Get read to read the books he assigns, Pay attention in lecture because he dose not put notes on the board. He is somewhat funny though.

Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
3.0
201
Grade: A+
Dec 14, 2023
Would take again

Definitely show up to class! Although attendance is not mandatory and he posts all lectures on canvas, it is still very beneficial to show up and pay attention in class. You can tell he makes an effort to get to know students. Very annoying to listen to though. And LOTS of extra credit available. GO TO REVIEW SESSIONS!!

Tough grader
EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
1.0
4.0
201
Grade: F
Nov 7, 2024

I was a solid A student in highschool and never failed a college class either. Took him my spring semester and could never seem to do good on his exams even when I answered the question flawlessly, I still got points taken off. Would not reccomed him at all. I had a few other friends fail his class too.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
4.0
3.0
201
Grade: B+
Dec 1, 2024
Would take again

Great prof - strict but engaging. Attend class, do the readings, and use tools like Unstuck AI to prep. Lots of extra credit if you put in the work.

5.0
3.0
202
Grade: A
Dec 16, 2024
Would take again

I absolutely LOVED Dr. McDonough! I took him for both 201 and 202, and enjoyed both of his classes. He truly works with you and cares. The material is not difficult and is readily available (lectures posted on canvas!) but his exams do go into great detail (the written response questions). If you study you will be fine though.

Tough grader
Caring
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
202
Grade: F
Jan 8, 2025

McDonough was a tough grader on his exams. And his study sheets were very broad. Would not take again.

Tough grader
5.0
4.0
201
Grade: A
Jan 22, 2025
Would take again

Dr. McDonough is an extremely good teacher; you can tell he really cares about what he's teaching. He is a VERY tough grader, but you get a study guide of all the terms that could appear on the test and he holds review sessions before exams that you can get extra credit for. Make sure you take time to actually study and answer questions throughly.

Tough grader
Gives good feedback
Lecture heavy
5.0
5.0
HIST201
Grade: A
Jul 2, 2025
Would take again

He truly wants his students to do well, and he cares about what he teaches. However, this is definitely a difficult class and not one you can just half-do. His tests are very in-depth, but if you take the time to study you'll be ok. Attendance isn't mandatory but there's no way you can frequently miss and still pass.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Graded by few things
5.0
5.0
HIST202
Grade: A
Jul 2, 2025
Would take again

He grades super tough on tests and quizzes, so make sure you take time to study and read whatever is required. You can tell he enjoys what he teaches and wants his students to do well. Attendance isn't mandatory but there's no way you can miss a lot and still pass because of how much he teaches in one lesson.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Gives good feedback
1.0
4.0
202
Grade: B-
Dec 2, 2025

Dr. McDonough is a very nice and caring professor but easily goes off track with what he is supposed to be lecturing about. There are at least 15 written response questions on every test and he will take 3 points off every time if your answer isn't "thorough" enough for his liking even if you get the answer correct. Better be good at taking notes.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

45%

Textbook Required

75%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

95% confidence
Based on 43 grades
Most common grades:
A (13)
A+ (6)
C (4)
Grade Distribution
A(19)B(6)C(4)D(3)F(4)A-/B+(7)
Based on 46 reported grades
A: 13
A+: 6
C: 4
B+: 4
Common Tags
Skip class? You won't pass. (12)
Tough grader (12)
Tough Grader (11)
Get ready to read (11)
Lecture heavy (10)
LECTURE HEAVY (6)
Hilarious (5)
Gives good feedback (4)
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