Historical Studies, M.A.

The Master of Arts program in Historical Studies program is characterized by a core emphasis on academic training in historiographical methods and theory; current conceptual tools and techniques for organizing historical evidence; and primary research in a large number of subject/area specialties. A minimum of 30 credits is required to graduate.

The specific degree requirements are as follows:

Degree Requirements

There are two courses of study which lead to completion of the M.A. in Historical Studies.

Students who plan to pursue the traditional M.A. in Historical Studies must earn a minimum of 30 credits. All students are required to take HIST 701 (The Study of History) in the fall semester of their first year, and HIST 702 (The Practice of History) in the spring semester of their first year. Students must take six elective courses, with at least three of these courses at the 700 level. (This requirement can be modified with the permission of the Graduate Program Director.) Students may, with permission from the Graduate Program Director, use HIST 798 (Special Topics in Historical Studies) and/or HIST 790 (Internship) to fulfill elective credit requirements. Finally, students must take at least six credits of HIST 799 (Thesis). Students should use this checklist to track their progress toward completion of the M.A. in Historical Studies.

Students who enroll in the M.A. in Historical Studies, Public History track must also earn a minimum of 30 credits to graduate. All Public History track students are required to take HIST 701 (The Study of History) and HIST 705 (Introduction to Public History) in the fall semester of their first year, and HIST 702 (The Practice of History) in the spring semester of their first year. In addition, students in the Public History track are required to complete HIST 790 (Internship). Public History track students fulfill the remaining credit requirements with four elective courses and at least six credits of HIST 799 (Thesis). Students should use this checklist to track their progress toward completion of the M.A. in Historical Studies, Public History track.

Students must be continuously enrolled in the program unless granted an authorized Leave of Absence (LOA). Students are limited to three authorized LOAs for their time in the program. All requirements for the master’s degree must be completed within a five-year period, regardless of any LOAs. Students seeking an extension of the five-year deadline must submit this form to the Graduate School after consultation with the Graduate Program Director. See the Graduate School Catalog for further information on enrollment requirements and related forms.