The History M. A. degree provides students with a rigorous introduction to the graduate study of history. Small classes taught by a dedicated faculty afford students close supervision as they learn to research and write about the heritage of our country and others. Established in 1938, 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 courses in American, European, Asian, Latin American, African American and Women’s history. Students are encouraged to take classes covering a wide range of times and places as they 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., or history master’s degree, it hones their academic skills and enhances their prospects for admission into the doctoral programs of their choice. Students with a master’s degree in history are also attractive candidates for admission into other graduate programs such as law and library science. 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.