History (MA Program)

Program Overview

The MA in History at the University of Northern British Columbia offers advanced historical research and scholarship training. Students can choose between a thesis stream or a project stream, which includes options like museum exhibits and digital history initiatives. The program emphasizes historical methodology, critical analysis, and communication skills, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research, and cultural heritage management.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The MA program in History at the University of Northern British Columbia offers students the opportunity to delve into advanced historical research and scholarship. The program provides a solid foundation in historical methodology and research techniques, enabling students to conduct original research and contribute to the broader field of history.

Objectives:

The program aims to equip students with the following:

• A deep understanding of historical research methods and practices
• The ability to critically analyze historical sources and interpretations
• Proficiency in written and oral communication of historical knowledge
• An appreciation for the diverse perspectives and methodologies within the historical discipline

Program Description:

The MA program comprises two streams:

• Thesis Stream: Students complete 15 credit hours of graduate coursework and a 100-page thesis based on original research.
• Project Stream: Students complete 18 credit hours of coursework and a substantial project, which may include knowledge transmission, museum exhibits, documentary films, creative writing, digital history initiatives, or other projects based on substantial historical research.

Outline:

Required Courses:

All students in both streams are required to take the following courses:

• HIST 700-3: Seminar in Historical Methodology and Research
• HIST 745-3: Historical Methods and Approaches

Elective Courses:

Students can choose from a range of elective courses to tailor their program to their research interests. These courses include:

• Thesis Stream: Students choose three elective courses in consultation with their supervisor.
• Project Stream: Students choose four elective courses in consultation with their supervisor.

Elective Course Descriptions:

• HIST 701-3: Themes in the History of Gender
• HIST 702-3: Themes in Indigenous History
• HIST 704-3: Themes in Environmental History
• HIST 705-3: Themes in the History of International Relations
• HIST 707-3: Themes in Cultural History
• HIST 708-3: Themes in Social History
• HIST 799-3: Independent Study

Assessment:

The assessment methods for the MA program vary depending on the stream and the specific courses taken.

• Thesis Stream: Students are assessed primarily on their thesis research and writing.
• Project Stream: Students are assessed on their coursework performance and the quality of their project.

Teaching:

The program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are actively engaged in historical research and scholarship. Teaching methods include:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Supervision
• Independent research

Careers:

The MA in History prepares students for a wide range of careers in academia, research, education, cultural heritage management, and other fields that require advanced historical knowledge and research skills.