4.3

Michael Harkins

History - Harper College

4.3
Quality
2.4
Difficulty
74%
Would Retake
121
Reviews
4.3
Quality
2.4
Difficulty
4.3
Helpful
4.2
Clarity

74%

Would Retake

121

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

80

4

19

3

9

2

11

1

2

What Students Say

I highly recommend Mr

HST282 - 4.0 rating

I've taken two of his classes now- no nonsense, no fuss

HST112 - 5.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

67%

Textbook Required

70%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A-

95% confidence
Based on 38 grades
Most common grades:
A (16)
A+ (8)
B (6)
Grade Distribution
A(24)B(7)C(3)D(1)F(0)A-/B+(4)
Based on 41 reported grades
A: 16
A+: 8
B: 6
B+: 2
Common Tags
Respected (14)
Gives good feedback (13)
Caring (9)
Clear grading criteria (7)
Get ready to read (6)
LECTURE HEAVY (6)
Tough grader (6)
Amazing lectures (5)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.31 avg change
Jul
Aug
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Oct
Nov
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

112151152

5.0

(2)

HST315

5.0

(1)

HST112142

5.0

(1)

HST245

5.0

(1)

HST

5.0

(1)
+35 more courses
Difficulty by Course

HIST152

4.0

HIS282

4.0

112151152

3.5

HST241

3.5

HIST101

3.3

Reviews (121)
5.0
4.0
HST112
Jul 9, 2003

Mr. Harkins rocks! I loved this class.

5.0
3.0
HST243
Grade: B+
Feb 24, 2004

very intelligent man. passionate about history, he tells some pretty good stories. you will not regret taking his courses.

2.0
4.0
HIST112
Apr 10, 2004

I didn't like him. He mumbles and is hard to understand. Gives 20 short answer questions, almost everybody in the class complained they were short on time to finish with the exam. His stories were interesting but quite biased. One sided approach to Hist.

3.0
3.0
HST112
Apr 19, 2004

he's a really nice teacher but he tends to talk to himself. you get a little confused about what to write down but all you gotta do is talk to him and it's all good. give him a chance.

5.0
2.0
HST315
May 10, 2004

Loved his class! It was like story time, every time we met!!

5.0
1.0
HST243
May 21, 2004

Great Teacher, Funny

5.0
1.0
HST112142
Jul 26, 2004

also took 243, I thought he was a great teacher. He influenced me to become a history major. western civ class was on the internet. I like the tests the most, 22 essay questions pick 2 and 130 terms pick 20 in 112 class. Excellent Teacher

5.0
3.0
HST112
Aug 23, 2004

Made history class interesting

5.0
2.0
HST245
Aug 24, 2004

His British history class was awesome. I hated history until I took his course. I reccommend anyone to take his course. His stories are quite interesting also. His tests are all essay based but he provides you with the questions before the test!!

5.0
2.0
HST231
Oct 5, 2004

Makes the subject very interesting. Allows students to give their own viewpoint, discuss. Clear, detailed lectures. Essay tests, you choose two questions out of 20 or so. Attendance mandatory, pay attention. Willing to accomodate, just talk to him.

5.0
1.0
HST112
Jan 14, 2005

Easy class...but this guys a weirdo. he didn't put up an notes on the board you had to get them from his lecture. he acted out the history, and he's not a very good actor.

5.0
1.0
HST
Feb 1, 2005

made me like history. tests were very easy and he told you exactly what you had to study. I missed like half the classes and I still got an A in the class. he was very eccentric but a really great guy if you got to know him. extremely well educated.

5.0
2.0
HIST112
Mar 1, 2005

Great teacher. Fun to be in class. Great person too.

5.0
1.0
HST152
May 19, 2005

his classes are awesome! i fully recommend him to anyone considering taking hst. his classes are story time, and he throws in "the behind the scenes" kind of things that make it cool. his knowledge of hst is amazing!

5.0
3.0
HST112
Aug 31, 2005

It is absolutely amazing how much knowledge of history this man has. He's no pushover, but you WILL learn a lot from his class.

5.0
1.0
HISTORY
Sep 2, 2005

No Comments

5.0
1.0
HST112
Sep 4, 2005

One of the best instructors at Harper. Acts out the history which makes class more interesting and helps you to remember the material. Gives lots of easy extra credit. Tests are simple, define, identify, or describe 20 (out of 100) terms and answer 1 essay question (out of 20). Very willing to help students out- all you have to do is ask.

5.0
1.0
HST112
Oct 4, 2005

He knows a lot, but he's really wierd. His lectures wer more of an acting thing, which I liked. He definately teaches you things that you wouldn't learn elsewhere. Take his class and then laugh at his randomness.

5.0
2.0
112151152
Oct 12, 2005

one of the best teachers. he is a genius. makes class so much fun. not a lot of readings just pay attention and you will do fine. inspired me to take more history classes!

5.0
2.0
HST145
Feb 15, 2006

Professor Harkins is a great teacher, knows what he is taking about, and seems to love his work. Helps out as much as he can and really makes sure the students learn the really truth about history. He also seeming to like to act out history, and drew out battle stratagies,ect.. Makes his class fun, and educational at the same time. One of a kind!!

4.0
3.0
HST152
Feb 18, 2006

Nice, funny guy. Lectures are all over the place sometimes, and is a little hard to follow (let alone take notes from), but he really knows his stuff and is a sweet man.

5.0
3.0
ENGLISHHISTORY
Jun 6, 2006

great teacher. by far the best teacher i had at harper

5.0
1.0
HST243152
Jun 12, 2006

He's a genius! I didn't like history at all, but after taking his classes, I just fall in LOVE with history. He's making so much fun in the class, just like telling a story! I think he likes to act a lot! JUST like an actor! He has his own set of "history philosophy." Great teacher I've ever took in Harper!! A+++

5.0
1.0
HIS112
Jul 27, 2006

He's a great teacher because his discussions are very interesting. He has a lot of fun with his discussions, which makes it very easy to understand all of the material.

5.0
1.0
HIST241243
Aug 7, 2006

Have him as your friend, but do not cross swords with him!

5.0
2.0
HST152
Aug 20, 2006

Just and awsome guy/teacher! Although word of advice, although his lectures are interesting and really good, sometimes you will get lost in the timeline of things.

5.0
1.0
HST111
Sep 27, 2006

This guy is indeed pure genius! Take him, awsome teacher. THIS IS HOW YOU SHOULD TEACH, HE SHOULD SHOW OTHER TEACHERS HOW TO TEACH!!!!!! WOOOOOO

5.0
3.0
HIST243
May 5, 2007

It's true he is a little weird but that's okay. It's better then someone being boring. All he does is lecture, however, the lectures are fun to listen to because he will act out moments in history. Also, if you talk to him one on one you'll see he really is a nice guy. So give him a chance.

3.0
3.0
HIS112
May 17, 2007

not really down with his teaching style. It's like he is putting on a one man play. Just get to the point already. nice guy though

5.0
3.0
HST153
Jun 5, 2007

He is an awsome teacher. He enjoys his job. His teaching is awesome, because he actually enjoys his job (as it seems). His stories are actually entertaining to listen to. Hes awesome, although he can jump from one story to another without any explanation. But, hes still awesome. I cant see why anyone would not want to take him.

5.0
3.0
HIST001
Jun 15, 2007

I took his asian history class, twice. The first time I unfortunitely bombed out but the second time was great, whats more, he reconized me and welcomed me back to the class. His teaching style is a disapearing art as he makes you want to go to class. Be for warned though, his exams and finals can be rough, they are all essays and he expects alot.

5.0
4.0
HIST112
Nov 5, 2007

I love his teaching style, its weird cuz he almost brings you back to the time of what he is teaching. Its really hard to take notes becuase youd rather just listen so i recomend bringing a tape recorder and listing to it later. His tests are rather difficult but if you studied then it shouldnt really be a problem

5.0
3.0
HST232
Feb 25, 2008

Mr. Harkins is the greatest history teacher I have ever met. You should do the readings but you never really have to open the book at all - everything he tests on is from his lectures. He has worked in the Middle East and had all sorts of adventures. Final papers can be kinda hard but not that bad. Definitely take him for any History class.

4.0
2.0
HST231
Mar 11, 2008

Likes to brag about all the places he's been, blah blah blah. Easy B. Don't need textbook so don't bother buying. His class depends a lot on the other people in it. My class was quiet so his classes draggggged. All tests essays and he gives you questions before and allowed us to use a notecard with notes. One big project as well at the end

2.0
2.0
HIST112
May 22, 2008

Some good stories, but they're mostly negated by his focus on stupid details and use of boyish "voices" for his characters. Crushingly boring. His personal experiences are questionable at best, including alleged "nucelar test runs" over Turkey when he was a kid, as well as working in nearly every U.S. State. Never once informed us of total grade.

5.0
4.0
HST241
Jul 24, 2008

Mr. Harkins is a very interesting guy who clearly loves his job and the history he teaches. Do not miss a class! Exams are based entirely on lectures. Exams are like AP essays, but he gives you the topics beforehand and studying is necessary.

2.0
4.0
HST231
Sep 4, 2008

This guy has absolutely no lecture notes to study from; he expects you to write down whatever he blabs about; most of which is not required for any tests. I started drinking energy drinks before his class and he stil managed to put me to sleep. Furthermore, he never seems to use the "required" textbooks for the course. Honestly, take someone else.

5.0
2.0
HST243
Sep 10, 2008

very knowledgeable which makes the class more interesting

4.0
3.0
HST232
Nov 16, 2008

It's pure lecture, reading the books help, but you never have to open them. Tests are hard, they are ALL essay. He is a very fascinating teacher and a true history buff. He has a lot of great experience, including archeology. Take him but be prepared to take good notes and study them closely to pass tests. There is a major paper as well (8 pages).

5.0
4.0
HST231
Dec 11, 2008

Very knowledgeable and has many interesting stories related to his experiences in the middle east. Never opens the "required" textbooks which is nice, however, all the exams are essays. Pure lecture, listen and take notes. There's a 15 pages final paper but it's done in sections of 2-3 pages every other day so it's not so bad. Take him, he's cool.

5.0
2.0
HIST151
Jan 25, 2009

Prof Harkins is very knowledgeable, very interesting and very passionate about history. He is very helpful; he gives out the test questions ahead of time, and makes the workload of the research paper very manageable. Go to class, take notes; it is enjoyable and you will get a good grade.

5.0
1.0
HST202
Apr 20, 2009

Any class you take with Prof. Harkins as your instructor will be a total joy. Prof. Harkins is extremely knowlegable about his subject matter and his passion for history is highly invectionous. He loves to relate his stories from the field and you'll love to hear them. He is an inspiration and the main reason I wish to become a history teacher

2.0
5.0
HIST243
Apr 23, 2009

This guy has ABSOLUTELY no idea what in the world he is doing. He has all kinds of knowledge about his subject, which would be nice, if he had any sort of idea how to stay on topic. We're still not covering things we were supposed to cover *before spring break*. He is also boring enough to put a crack fiend off to lullaby land. AVOIDAVOIDAVOID

5.0
2.0
HST243
Apr 27, 2009

Very intelligent and knowledgeable about the subject, his experience in the field makes the class even more interesting. The way he teaches make you appreciate the subject a lot more. If you want to learn from the class, definitely take Professor Harkins.

5.0
1.0
HST151
Oct 5, 2009

Highly knowledgable with a lot of archaeological field experience. He has an answer to every question and is without a doubt passionate about history. I've taken a couple classes with him and he has made the class enjoyable each time. He seems to have been all over the world so if you want to understand history; there is no other that compares.

4.0
4.0
HST242
Dec 10, 2009

Mr Harkins is a great teacher. Lectures are what they are, although i'd like to have more "clear" notes on the board to follow the content better. 3 Essays and 1 Final (Essay) 25% each and attendance is mandatory! The "Book" was not useful. I like his teaching style, it's interactive! I'm debating on taking one of his classes again. You will learn!

4.0
2.0
HIST202
Apr 28, 2010

Not a bad teacher at all, can be pretty interesting. Not the easiest one to take notes from because he kinda drags on into personal stories and doesn't do notes on the board or overhead. Class can get REALLY boring though. I sometimes leave way before i'm supposed to. He sometimes seems to talk mainly to the people in the front.

3.0
4.0
HIST202
May 19, 2010

Mr. Harkins is a good teacher. He can be sometimes hard to understand if you are in the back when he narrates his stories. Also, taking notes is hard because he covers such a wide area that, you would be writting only and not actually listening to him. Take the most important notes, listen in class and read the books. You'll be fine.

5.0
3.0
HIST101
Jul 29, 2010

Great teacher and does the best impersonations!

5.0
2.0
HST243
Aug 24, 2010

Professor Harkins is an awesome teacher, and I highly recommend him to everyone and anyone. He's easy to understand, he's pretty funny, and extremely helpful and nice. Probably one of the nicest teachers I've had so far at Harper. Although you really don't need the books much except the final paper if you want to use them as a source.

3.0
2.0
HIST281
Nov 16, 2010

I've taken him before. He's a nice guy and not a horrible teacher, but he's deathly boring. I've managed to get by in his class without bothering to take notes. I don't have the attention span anymore to listen to him talk straight through the ENTIRE hour and 15 minute class, and i tip my hat to those who do. I've had better history teachers!

4.0
3.0
HIST245
Dec 30, 2010

2 hour lecture can seem long but he is willing to teach the whole time. Take notes, attend class, write good papers and you should pass. He gives you a list of questions to choose from for the essays a week before the exam so you have a week to prepare yourself. Write your own notes. He nice, has good stories with some humor, and knows his history.

5.0
1.0
HST151
Mar 10, 2011

I really enjoyed his class! Harkins makes it interesting. However, I had him for the hour and 15 min lecture, and all he does is talk, so it does get very boring. I barely read the text, studied for the essay tests and did the paper at the end and got an A. He loves to teach and acts out scenes from history with funny voices to help you understand.

5.0
2.0
HST152
May 17, 2011

I took a British History class with Mr. Harkins as the professor; I was intimidated at first when I looked through the syllabus but he barely really follows it. He doesn't give out home work or readings; its all lecture based and he's a very enthusiastic teacher. He's very cool overall and I definitely recommend him to anybody.

2.0
3.0
HST152
May 22, 2011

He thinks he is living through the time he is talking about... reallllllly into british history. It's really hard to take notes in the class because all he does is talk. A lot of the class is writing essays.. a 12 page research paper is due at the end of the semester... impossible and boring! Easy-ish but I don't recommend him.

5.0
2.0
HST112
Dec 22, 2011

He is probably the best teacher at Harper. He is a great teacher for majors and non-majors of History. He makes the topic interesting whether you find history interesting or not. Your grade for HST112 is based on 3 tests and one paper. The test is two-part, one test you define about 20 terms and the other test you wrote an essay about the chapter.

5.0
2.0
HIST202
Dec 29, 2011

He was very interesting. I love history and he made it more interesting. I had him for WW1 and the fact that HIS grandfather and great uncles fought in the war he was able to connect to the information and tell stories along the way. Test are easy. Notes arent a must but they help because its alot of information. M, Harkins is very easy to talk to.

5.0
1.0
HIST281
Jan 3, 2012

I found Professor Harkins' lectures about World War I to be extremely informative. He is very knowledgeable and I enjoyed his passion for teaching and his fairness in grading. I would take him again for another class if possible.

5.0
1.0
HIST202
Jan 23, 2012

Best history professor ever. He puts together cutting-edge courses like Rise and Fall of Great Civilizations and makes his courses very interesting. He has enormous experience including archeological explorations with U of Chicago & classes in History of Middle East, US, W Civ,England, Roman Empire, China, WWI/II, etc. He brings history alive.

5.0
2.0
HIST102
Mar 11, 2012

Professor Harkins is a great teacher and knows material extremely well, by far more than any teacher in history I've ever had before. He knows so many things you'd never even think of and it makes the course very interesting. He loves his job and it definitely helps in his class. Take a course with him if you can, it'll be better than most classes.

5.0
2.0
HST243
Mar 13, 2012

This man knows his stuff! He turns lectures into stories which makes the class more interesting. The tests are in essay format, makes them a little more difficult but you are given roughly 10 topics to write about and you are allowd to turn in a rough draft before the test and get back from him.

5.0
1.0
HIST243
Jun 28, 2012

I took his far east and modern world its great if you have an intrest in the subject matter. But if you dont I dont suggest it. He is very passionate about his lectures but even if you dont pay attention you can prob still pass and without doing the required readings as long as you know enough to pull off an essay for the test.

4.0
2.0
HIST112
Dec 10, 2012

Great Teacher, knowledgeable and really loves the subject. A little boring at times, can go on to long about some things. Tons of notes, must attend class for the information for the test. Textbook is actually well written and easy to comprehend.

4.0
3.0
HIS112
Mar 11, 2013

Seems to be a nice guy, can often be boring because he tends to go off topic. One of the most knowledgeable professors Ive ever had. He is willing to help you but exams are not easy. A lot of notes and memorization!

4.0
2.0
HST282
Jun 5, 2013

I love this guy! He is so passionate for history and his stories about his experiences in the archives are very informing. I've taken two classes with him before and am taking a 3rd this fall. If you pay attention, take good notes and write with detail on his tests, you'll do very well. I highly recommend Mr. Harkins for any history class!

5.0
1.0
HST220
Jun 9, 2013

One of the best pro ever. he has good knowledge about history. He is very smooth going and he is willing to help every student in his class. i am taking his HST 270 in the fall, because he has well knowledge. and i love history. But make to write 20 page research paper.

5.0
3.0
HIST
Grade: A+
Oct 14, 2013

one of the best history teachers i have ever had i wish i could take his courses again. but with all his classes he has a 10-12 page research paper due at the end of the semester, he breaks it up and gives you feed back on each section you turn in which only helps your grade.Has great one liner jokes but you have to listen for them

3.0
2.0
HST112
Dec 14, 2013

Class is like a one man play. The document case study turned in at the end is an easy A because he breaks it up and give you really good feedback to make it better. Only major complaint: four things go into your grade. 3 exams and one paper. Not much to work with there so you have to do well on everything.

2.0
3.0
HST112002
Jan 22, 2014

Good and passionate but holy moly he needs to not whisper talk while teaching. He is on stage and speaking to an entire auditorium. I acknowledge that he uses a body microphone but he can be very hard to understand. Not to mention his boring energy can make it even harder to focus. Not recommended for early hours when you're already tired.

5.0
2.0
HST112
Grade: A
Jun 29, 2014

Classes were always fun because Prof. H spent most of the time with stories than giving a lecture. Test grading was lenient as long as you knew the basic concepts and I liked the way he handled the research paper. Only downside was that there was too much emphasis on presidential elections.

3.0
4.0
HST112
Grade: B
Nov 30, 2014

He's a nice guy but all he does is talk about things that don't pertain to the class. I want to hear a lecture and leave not listen to his analogies about our history books being the hammer needed to get the job done EVERY SINGLE LECTURE. He also expects papers every week, sometimes only giving 2 days to write them.

5.0
2.0
HST243
May 13, 2015

It is a different type of class! His tests are all essays which can be easy as long as you show up to class and keep up with the readings! Also super helpful when you need it!

3.0
4.0
HST243
Grade: B-
Jul 7, 2015

The class is called: "Far-East in the Modern World". Despite this, he will spend more than 80% of the semester talking about ancient ChinaJapan. He does not use Computers. Tests are Essay only, Essays require a large quantity of detail to get high marks. No Homework, plenty of Extra credit options but you have to ask first. Case Study assignment.

5.0
4.0
HIST152
Grade: A+
Aug 21, 2015

I love professor Harkins, I myself am going to school to be a British History professor, and you can definitely learn a lot from him!Love history? you will thoroughly enjoy his classes. Be warned though, if you are not into writing papers that is the entire class, like a history class should be. Takes time and is very enthusiastic about Britain. :)

5.0
3.0
HST112
Nov 15, 2015

Mr. Harkins is the best! I've taken two of his classes now- no nonsense, no fuss. Every class is story time with him acting out scenarios as if he was there. No homework and no cumulative exam, just a research paper, which he splits up in parts to give you temporary grades and lets you correct. Tells you what'll be on the tests. Love this old guy!

5.0
1.0
HST261
Dec 21, 2015

Really easy grading. Lectures are long but if you pay attention you will pass the class with a good grade.

5.0
1.0
HST243
Grade: A
Apr 8, 2016

Mr. Harkins is pretty much Indiana Jones mixed with the teacher from Ferris Buler's day off. He is an AMAZING professor and tells the most amazing stories about what you are learning about. His case study is a fun way to do homework because its spread out over the semester so its not too much work. Overall, he's a great teacher if you get work done

5.0
1.0
HIST112
Grade: A
May 22, 2016

Lecture only class. Can get boring but he tries to make it exciting. Acts out historic events. As he lectures, he tells you what will be on the exam. 3 exams and one 20 page case study. Very easy grader, very understanding, and a very nice man. Exams are very easy.

5.0
4.0
HIS282
Grade: A-
Aug 4, 2016
Would take again

Mr. Harkins is a fantastic teacher. He clearly loves history, and makes it come alive by showing you both the grand scale and the more personal view of people involved in the events. He has only one paper due for the semester. I know he LOVES when students talk to him outside of class about it. If you are a good student, he'll look out for you, too

5.0
4.0
HST112
Dec 9, 2016
Would take again

He is so passionate about history and when he lectures, he tells stories. The tests are split into 2 days. You have to write 20 terms and define them, then write an essay the next day. I'm a bad test taker but I did great on his tests. He truly cares about us and our grades, and not just for his class. We all need teachers like him. He's a blessing

Gives good feedback
Amazing lectures
Caring
5.0
2.0
HST243
Dec 13, 2016
Would take again

I usually never leave reviews but i feel obligated to leave one for Professor Harkins. He is absolutely amazing and really dives deep into the history. One of the best Professors i've ever had. The work load is extremely manageable and he is a very understanding person. Very fair grader and his lectures are actually really entertaining.

Respected
Amazing lectures
Caring
1.0
4.0
HIST101
Dec 27, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Expected to learn about Post Civil War America to Present, however, by the end of the semester, we only rolled into the 1940's. While I don't hate Harkins as a person, he is not a good professor. His class is VERY book heavy. Don't expect to learn much in class, but attendance is required. If your into history, this is not the class for you.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
LECTURE HEAVY
2.0
3.0
HIS112
Grade: C+
May 1, 2017
Wouldn't take again

I took him for post civil war and i did not like it. First he gives you a package of two books that are so expensive that are ironically edited and written by him. Secondly he is a tough grader that literally trys and acts out his lecture likes its theatre. Not to mention the 15 page essay at the end of the semester.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
4.0
HST202
Grade: A
May 6, 2017
Would take again

Dr. Harkins should have spent his career in congress. His understanding of the political spectrum is amazing and he will take you on a journey during his lectures. He creates an atmosphere or paints a picture where you can flourish in this professional setting. Immerse yourself and enjoy the teachings from a gifted orator.

Respected
Inspirational
Amazing lectures
4.0
2.0
HIST112
Grade: A
May 9, 2017
Would take again

Harkins is one of those people that you see on National Geographic History TV show. He knows literally everything about History. The book is needed, if you don't buy it, you'll be in trouble. There is one Case Study project but he separates it into questions, one question is due per week. If you love History, take him!!

Skip class? You won't pass.
EXTRA CREDIT
LECTURE HEAVY
2.0
4.0
HIS112
Grade: C
May 23, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Mr. Harkins is a great and passionate person, but he is a very hard grader. I took History 112 with him and he expected the work of a 200 or 300 level class. His tests are all based on memorization because they are written out; 20 terms and an essay. He is very particular so I do not recommend taking his class unless you're very good at history.

Tough Grader
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
3.0
HIST243
Grade: A
May 24, 2017
Would take again

Professor Harkins is extremely knowledgeable about history. His lectures tend to be a little dry, which is unfortunate because of mandatory attendance. Overall he isn't too bad. Take his classes with caution... The only things he really grades are 3 exams worth 25% each in addition to a document case study also worth 25%. That's it.

5.0
3.0
HIST281
Aug 25, 2017
Would take again

Mr. Harkins is hands down my most favorite and respected teacher as a student I have ever had. I look forward to taking more of his courses in the future.

Respected
Inspirational
Caring
5.0
1.0
HST231
Grade: A+
Nov 7, 2017
Would take again

His lectures are boring but he makes everything too east. You have only 3 tests that are written (2 essays) & he gives you the questions a week before the test to prepare. You have 1 final paper at the end of the semester which is split up into different questions & you turn 1 in every week for feedback, get A's on all of them you will get an A.

Gives good feedback
Clear grading criteria
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
5.0
2.0
HST232
May 10, 2018
Would take again

This is an amazing class Prof Harkins is awesome and is so nice. He will do anything to help you out. Every class consists of 30 minutes of news then the rest is a lecture. This class has 3 tests and a large paper due at the end. This class is amazing and I would defiantly take Prof Harkins again.

Hilarious
Caring
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
5.0
HIST112
Aug 14, 2018
Would take again

Professor Hankins is amazing! I took his history class over the summer. Right away he tells you how he grades, what he is going to do to help you prepare for the test, and how he is going the break up the grading criteria. His lecture are amazing! He makes them interesting, will act parts out, and sometimes give you his opinion on the topic.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Gives good feedback
Clear grading criteria
5.0
3.0
HIST101
Sep 29, 2018
Would take again

Mr. Harkins is a great professor. No one can doubt his passion for teaching history. You can tell he really loves his job and cares for helping his students. He really knows everything when it comes to historical events, it's truly amazing. My favorite were his WW1 and WW2 classes. Really a great and respectable guy.

Gives good feedback
Respected
Caring
4.0
3.0
HIS112
Grade: B
Jan 11, 2019
Would take again

Harkins is a great Professor. He is very, very knowledgeable on all things history and is super passionate. Every class is a lecture, and there is no information on the powerpoints (just key-words) so be prepared to take good notes. You are only graded by the tests and the final paper at the end of the year. Very nice man, super funny and helpful.

Respected
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
2.0
HIST112001
Grade: B
Jun 5, 2019
Would take again

I normally dont leave ratings but professor Harkins was probably one of my favorite professors I have ever had in college so far! He tells his lectures like a story and makes them very entertaining! Take his class for sure you wont regret it!

Gives good feedback
Accessible outside class
Amazing lectures
3.0
3.0
HIST112
Nov 7, 2019
Wouldn't take again

This class was not hard at all. I found the lecture part really boring but he was also entertaining because he would act out what he was lecturing about. He gives you the key terms for the test and the essay questions to pick and prepare for before the tests which is also really nice. Take if you need the GenED credit!

3.0
3.0
HIS112
Grade: A
Jan 27, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Professor Harkins is very intelligent when it comes to history and clearly is very passionate about the subject. The issue I had with his class was that his lectures were messy and hard to follow, and he would spend too much time on one thing. He also emphasizes military history a lot, but was overall helpful with our final paper.

Test heavy
Hilarious
Lecture heavy
5.0
3.0
HIST112
Grade: A
May 29, 2020
Would take again

Professor Harkins class was not only interesting but fun to go to. He likes to act out events and it's very fun to watch. There aren't many grades in this class so you definitely need to do the work. Tests are all free-response. You will be given a list of over 200 terms but only have to define 25. If you're looking for a History course, take his.

Gives good feedback
Respected
Accessible outside class
5.0
3.0
HST241
Grade: A
Jul 10, 2020
Would take again

He is the only teacher i go out of my way to give a good review. i genuinely can not recommend him enough to anyone. He makes class a story and hes full of energy and life. you can TELL he LOVES what he teaches.

Gives good feedback
Respected
Inspirational
4.0
2.0
HIS112
Grade: A-
Dec 3, 2020
Would take again

Just a solid choice, nice lecture, simply grading, just a nice person.

Respected
Accessible outside class
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
HST281
Dec 21, 2020
Would take again

I really enjoyed taking Professor Harkin's class. You can tell he loves what he does and he is knowledgeable. I also enjoyed his lectures, he includes a ton of details and information in them.

Gives good feedback
Respected
Caring
5.0
2.0
HST231
Grade: A+
Dec 29, 2020
Would take again

Honestly his class was so easy, along as you did the work (which consisted mostly of discussion posts and essays) you are going to get an A. He is an easy grader and actually cared about his students.

Gives good feedback
Respected
Accessible outside class
5.0
2.0
HIS112
Grade: A
Feb 3, 2022
Would take again

Professor Harkin knows his history. On top of that, he is always online and will respond to your email within a couple of hours or less. He is very old school , which is not always a bad thing. My only issue with him is that he will close modules down at the end of the week and will not open them up again unless you ask him to.

Accessible outside class
Clear grading criteria
5.0
1.0
HIS112
Grade: A+
Mar 3, 2022
Would take again

Mr.Harkins is an amazing and caring professor. Super easy to talk to. Would totally reccomend.

Inspirational
Caring
Respected
2.0
1.0
HIS112
Grade: B
May 4, 2022

There was not a single due date for any assignments in the syllabus or modules and only the current week was available to view or work on. The only way to know what work was due was to wait for him to post it as an announcement that week. Overall did not give clear enough instruction for an online class, if you need structure do not take.

Test heavy
Graded by few things
2.0
4.0
HIST112
Jul 3, 2022

If you are going to listen to any of these reviews, let this be the one. I looked up this professor before I took the class and thought "wow this guy will be a great teacher. He has a great score" but boy was I wrong. He is not clear on his instructions at all. He repeats his feedback and does not give specifics as to what was wrong. Dont take him!

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Participation matters
5.0
2.0
HIST112
Grade: A
May 10, 2024
Would take again

Amazing professor he really loves what he does. He does not give any busy work for his in-person classes. He is a very caring professor and will try and get you to pass the class with an A.

Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
Lecture heavy
5.0
1.0
HST112
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 12, 2024
Would take again

Prof Harkins is one of the best professors at Harper. Very caring and will give feedback on every assignment you do. Very easy grader too. Very approachable also

4.0
1.0
HIS112
Grade: A
Dec 6, 2024
Would take again

The exams are easy and don't take long. He is a very nice professor and he made history somewhat interesting with his stories. One downside is that, everything is on paper he does not use blackboard or email, so if you miss one class you will be lost. Also his handwriting is hard to read, but other than that the homework was not hard and short.

EXTRA CREDIT
Clear grading criteria
Caring
5.0
3.0
HIS112
Grade: B
Jan 7, 2025
Would take again

MICHAEL HARKINS is the professor you want to have! He was amazing. During the fall 2024 semester, I took HST 112 with him. I have never been good at history or anything related to history and I never liked it but I needed to take this class ti get my Associates and to transfer. He was an amazing professor. He was by far the best professor I had.

EXTRA CREDIT
Gives good feedback
Respected
4.0
3.0
HIST112
Grade: B+
Jan 14, 2025
Would take again

Professor Harkins makes history come alive with his engaging lectures and creative teaching style. While the workload is manageable, staying engaged is key. unstuckstudy proved a helpful study aid alongside the textbook.

5.0
1.0
HIS112
Grade: A+
Jun 5, 2025
Would take again

Professor Harkins was great. Took HST 112 online summer of 2023 and his directions were clear, was nice about late homework when that did happen and overall was a very fair grader. Would def take this again. Highly recommend.

Clear grading criteria
Gives good feedback
1.0
3.0
HST112
Grade: Not sure yet
Jun 26, 2025

Still taking atm,summer, he yaps a lot, his directions/grading are stupid and overall a bad professor. Doesn't tell you how to correct, makes you buy a $70+ textbook and takes points off for the smallest things. The class should be an easy A but he does too much, especially being a level 100 class...I'll probably end with an A but just not worth it

Tough grader
5.0
1.0
HST242
Grade: A+
Jul 20, 2025
Would take again

Professor Harkins is just a chill guy. Easy to talk to and a very lenient grader. As long as you do the readings and turn in your work on time, you're in for a pretty easy A.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
5.0
5.0
112151152
Grade: C+
Aug 8, 2025

sry thx bro i love you

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Participation matters
5.0
1.0
HIST202
Grade: A
Sep 19, 2025
Would take again

She is prettt good hard to understand sometimes but overall pretty decent

Tough grader
Gives good feedback
4.0
2.0
HST112
Grade: B
Oct 15, 2025

He's a good teacher but he yaps a lot. Lowkey sleeping during class every time.

Caring
Respected
Lecture heavy
2.0
4.0
HIST281
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Nov 24, 2025

his page is not good, took it online was not helpful,

So many papers
Graded by few things
4.0
1.0
HST111
Grade: A+
Dec 8, 2025
Would take again

Professor Harkins is such an interesting guy, and he has so many cool stories. There were 3 tests and one research paper, but the instructions are very clear and you do the paper in little increments throughout the semester. I'll be honest, the lectures kind of put me to sleep since it's just him talking, but he's a very easy grader and super nice.

Clear grading criteria
Gives good feedback
4.0
3.0
HIS112
Grade: A
Dec 10, 2025
Would take again

Harkins is great just very old school. He just talks for the entire class period, grade is determined by 4 things so you better not mess up. If you don't take notes good luck passing his class, feedback is good but when it's readable. Overall, great guy just talks a ton and can ramble but his knowledge is for history is very impressive

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
Graded by few things
5.0
4.0
HIS112
Grade: A
Dec 10, 2025
Would take again

He's amazing. Has so many cool stories. Very Understanding. He is specific about the way you do your assignments and can take points off for that. Except that one of my favorites. Visit him during his Office hours. Great guy, definitely a History Buff.

Tough grader
4.0
2.0
HIS112
Grade: A
Dec 28, 2025
Would take again

He was a very respectful professor, and some of his assignments were tough grade on but overall very good. One thing, make sure you have the textbook for his class, because every assignment you do, you have to include citations from the textbook; if you don't, he will give you points off. When emailing him, he will respond within like a day.

Tough grader
Respected
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

67%

Textbook Required

70%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A-

95% confidence
Based on 38 grades
Most common grades:
A (16)
A+ (8)
B (6)
Grade Distribution
A(24)B(7)C(3)D(1)F(0)A-/B+(4)
Based on 41 reported grades
A: 16
A+: 8
B: 6
B+: 2
Common Tags
Respected (14)
Gives good feedback (13)
Caring (9)
Clear grading criteria (7)
Get ready to read (6)
LECTURE HEAVY (6)
Tough grader (6)
Amazing lectures (5)
Rating Trend

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Ratings by Course

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5.0

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5.0

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Difficulty by Course

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