COURSE CURRICULUM

The thesis-based MA option in History is a research-intensive program designed to develop advanced skills in historical analysis, historiography, and original scholarship over a two-year period. Students begin by completing HSTR500 (Historiography), a foundational course that examines how historical knowledge is produced, interpreted, and debated within the discipline. In addition, students complete 4.5 units of coursework drawn from Geographical and Topical Field Courses, including 1.5 units from Geographical Field Courses, 1.5 units from Topical Field Courses, and 1.5 units from either category. This structure allows students to build both regional expertise and thematic depth while maintaining flexibility in their academic focus. The core of the program is HSTR599, the MA Thesis, which carries 9.0 to 10.5 units of credit and requires students to conduct independent, original research on a specific historical topic under faculty supervision. The thesis represents a substantial scholarly contribution and is the central outcome of the degree. Throughout the program, students receive close mentorship from expert historians and are trained in rigorous research methods, critical analysis, and academic writing. Overall, this thesis-based option prepares students for advanced academic work, including doctoral studies, or for professional careers requiring strong research, analytical, and historiographical expertise in history.