Master of Arts in History

Master of Arts (MA) in History

The MA in History Program at the College of Staten Island trains students in the ideas, methods, knowledge and skills that distinguish today’s professional historian. In small seminar settings, students collaborate as a community of scholars in reading outstanding examples of historical research under the direction of specialists from the Department’s five areas of concentration: History of Africa and the Middle East; History of Asia; History of Europe; History of Latin America and the Caribbean; History of the United States. Classes are scheduled exclusively in the evening to fit the work schedules of our students. Students receive technical training in the specific methods and tools historians use to study the past. Additionally, they demonstrate their mastery of the historian’s craft either by researching and writing a master’s thesis under the supervision of a thesis director or by presenting a portfolio of new research before a faculty committee.

The curriculum for the MA in History consists of eight courses (or 32 credits in total). It can be completed on a full-time basis over four semesters or on a part-time basis over eight semesters.

The History MA Program invites applications from persons who are completing or who have already completed bachelor’s degrees in History or related subjects. It also welcomes applications from persons from other academic backgrounds who possess a passion for history.

Students may enter the History MA Program in either the fall or spring semesters. Applicants must provide two letters of recommendation, a letter or statement of purpose, and a writing sample of approximately 10-pages in length. Applicants are not required to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).

Find out more about admission and degree requirements for the MA in History Program 

Complete the online application