Program Overview

Introduction to the Master of Arts Program in History

The Master of Arts Program in History is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of historical events, theories, and methodologies. This program is ideal for students who wish to pursue a career in academia, research, or related fields.

Application Requirements

To be considered for admission to the Master of Arts Program in History, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• A degree in history, or its equivalent, with at least a high second-class or 'B/B+' average
• A statement of intent describing the proposed area of study and proposed thesis topic
• Academic transcripts, minimum two academic references, and other relevant materials required by the Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies

Program Structure

The Master of Arts Program in History is designed to be completed over five registered semesters. Students are generally admitted to the program with some funding to subsidize the costs of their degree. The program offers two possible paths: completion by Major Research Paper (MRP) or by Thesis.

Completion by Major Research Paper (MRP)

To complete the MA degree by MRP, students must:

• Pass six graduate courses (at least 3.0 credits)
• Submit and defend a Major Paper on an approved topic (10,000 to 12,000 words)

Completion by Thesis

To complete the MA degree by Thesis, students must:

• Pass four graduate courses (at least 2.0 credits)
• Successfully write and defend a thesis on an approved topic (25,000 words)

Collaborative Designations

The Master of Arts Program in History offers several collaborative designations, including:

• Collaborative International Development Studies (IDS) Designation: This designation combines training in a selected academic discipline with exposure to a broad range of social science perspectives.
• Collaborative One Health (ONEH) Designation: This designation prepares future leaders for the complex challenges at the confluence of human, animal, and environmental health.
• Collaborative Sexualities, Genders and Bodies (SGB) Designation: This designation examines advanced concepts relating to human identity, embodiment, and self-expression.

Suggested Semester Schedule

A suggested semester schedule for the Master of Arts Program in History is as follows:

• Fall 1: Take 2 or 3 graduate courses + GTA position
• Winter 1: Take 2 or 3 graduate courses; finish draft of research proposal + GTA position
• Summer 1: Register and work on MRP/Thesis and take a directed reading course (if needed) or take a temporary leave of absence for summer employment
• Fall 2: Finish up any courses needed; work on MRP/Thesis + GTA position
• Winter 2: Finish MRP/Thesis full draft by February 1 and defend in early April

Additional Information

For more details about the MA degree requirements, please consult the current University of Guelph Graduate Calendar.