Program Overview
The History M. A. degree provides students with a rigorous introduction to the graduate study of history. Small classes taught by a dedicated faculty offer students close supervision as they hone their critical thinking, research and writing skills. The history graduate program is one of the oldest at Marshall University and in the state of West Virginia.
During the last fifty years more than 300 Master of Arts degrees in history have been awarded. The History Department offers graduate courses in American, European, and world history. Students are encouraged to take classes covering a wide range of themes as they broaden their knowledge and, in the process, discover the topic for their thesis or the subjects they wish to prepare for comprehensive examinations.
An M.A. in history allows students to explore their interest in the study of history at the next level. For students who wish to pursue a Ph.D., it sharpens their academic skills and enhances their prospects for admission into a history doctoral program, as well as graduate programs in other fields, such as law, library science, the social sciences and the liberal arts. In earning an M. A. in History, you will acquire the ability to:
- Research and assemble material
- Analyze information
- Clearly and concisely present findings both orally and in writing
These skills are always in high demand by employers in private and public sectors.
Request Info
- Find out which of our academic programs is right for you.
- Meet some of our current students and hear about their favorite Marshall moments.
- Receive invitations to special events for future students.
- Get help with the application and enrollment process.
Program Highlights
Many graduate students take advantage of internships in the University Archives and Special Collections to enhance their archival research skills. The History Department supports two of our graduate students with assistantships that provide tuition remission and a stipend.
Graduate students are also eligible for several scholarships and monetary awards for outstanding work. Funding is available for research expenses and travel to present work at academic conferences.
While many students in the M.A. program go on to earn a Ph.D., many others take advantage of the department ‘s strength in public history, preparing for careers in museums, historic homes, libraries, archives, state and national parks, and local, state and federal government agencies.
Featured Courses
Career Opportunities
Students who hold an M.A. in History work in many different fields. The intensive study at the Master’s level will prepare you for careers in education, public history, public and private service, and many others. The History Department’s focus on excellent research skills, critical thinking, and deep knowledge will ensure you are ready to face new and exciting challenges.
- Lawyer
- Professor
- Researcher
- Museum Curator
- Teacher
- LIbrarian
- Geographer
- Archivist
- Writer
- Politician
- Government Service
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Students who have not completed an undergraduate major in history must have at least 15 hours of undergraduate courses in history, including 12 hours in the World and American history surveys. Students with deficiencies may be accepted provisionally and may be asked to take undergraduate courses suggested by the Director of Graduate Studies before full admission to the program.
Deadlines
Applicants should follow the admissions process described in the Graduate Catalog, or at the Graduate Admissions website at www.marshall.edu/graduate/admissions/how-to-apply-for-admission.
All materials should be submitted to the Graduate Admissions office.
Applicants must also submit to the Graduate Admissions office:
- two letters of recommendation;
- a writing sample drawn from work in a college course;
- a personal statement identifying the applicant’s reasons for pursuing an M.A. and how the degree will contribute to the applicant’s broader plans (1-2 pages);