Master of Arts in History

Career Outlook for M.A. in History Graduates

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How to Apply

You can apply if you have a bachelor’s degree in history or a closely related discipline with significant history coursework. We generally seek a minimum GPA of 3.0 and a minimum history course GPA of 3.25. Evidence of improvement in the final two years of undergraduate study and/or strong grades earned as an NIU graduate student at large can help offset a lower GPA.

You’ll apply through the Graduate School. Your application will be evaluated by the Graduate School and the Department of History. Admission and assistantship decisions are made by the department.

Application deadlines:

• January 15: for fall admission with assistantship consideration
• March 1: for fall admission (no assistantship consideration)
• November 1: for spring admission (October 1 for international applicants)

Costs and Funding

Our competitive tuition and fees helps ensure an excellent return on the investment of your time and resources. Learn about additional funding opportunities for graduate students.

Assistantships

Assistantships are available on a competitive basis. Entering M.A. students typically receive two years of funding. If you enter as an M.A. student and continue to the Ph.D., you can usually count on six total years of departmental funding. The deadline to apply is January 15. Learn more about departmental funding and awards.

Curriculum and Requirements

You’ll complete a minimum of 30 credit hours, including at least three 600-level reading seminars and two 700-level research seminars. You’ll also complete a “master’s essay” while taking HIST 756 (directed research). This original research project employs primary sources and builds upon work begun in the 700-level research seminars.

Other requirements include completion of two field essays as the M.A. comprehensive examination and demonstration of at least average proficiency in a foreign language (if you’re studying an area where English is not predominant or plan to pursue a Ph.D.). When appropriate, quantitative skills may be substituted for the language requirement.

Concentration in Public History

This concentration requires 36 credit hours and is designed for students seeking careers in public and private historical societies, archives, museums, research firms and historical editing.

Internships are the core of the program and are available in a variety of historical agencies within commuting distance of the university and on campus. Students have served internships at many locations, including NIU Regional History Archives, the Sycamore History Museum and the Rockford Art Museum.

View Degree Requirements

Faculty

Our award-winning faculty are recognized for their excellence in teaching, groundbreaking research and active engagement beyond the classroom. They specialize in a range of historical eras and are committed to providing learning experiences that prepare students for career success.

More About Our Faculty