history student studying

Master's in History

Master of Arts (M.A.)

Examine the past and build the writing and critical thinking skills you need to contribute to an increasingly global world.

In a volatile world, the study of history is more timely than ever. With an M.A. in History from UND, you’ll examine the past from diverse perspectives and prepare to launch an exciting career as a historian.

Program type:
Master's Degree
Format:
On Campus
Est. time to complete:
2 years (thesis option) or 2 to 2.5 years (non-thesis option)
Credit hours:
30 (thesis option) or 35 (non-thesis option)

Why earn a master's degree in history?

Application Deadlines
Fall:
March 15*
Spring:
Sep. 30

*Priority deadline

 

Studying the past helps us to interpret events and prepare for an uncertain future. It also helps you become a more persuasive writer and critical thinker — skills that are valuable in just about any career.

As a history student at UND, you'll choose from two options:

  • The thesis M.A. develops your research skills in preparation for doctoral studies and prepares you for careers in law, journalism and similar fields.
  • The non-thesis M.A. is a good choice if you don't plan to pursue an advanced degree. It provides a pathway to careers in teaching, government, public history and more.

Whichever option you select, you'll conduct significant, independent research and learn to explain the past in ways that are meaningful to the present.

Master's in History at UND

  • Interact with renowned historians through UND's history-related speaker series.

  • Work closely with faculty members whose research interests span periods of American, Ancient, European, and African history.

  • Engage with history through a regional archive with collections of national significance.

  • Present your work at on-campus workshops and national conferences.

  • Enhance your professional skills at 60+ free workshops offered through the UND School of Graduate Studies. Our goal is to provide you with the workforce skills and job search strategies to succeed.

What can I do with a masters in history?

63K

Median annual salary for historians

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Historians

19%

Anticipated job growth for archivists, curators and museum workers

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Curators, Museum Technicians and Conservators

Explore the history of North America, Europe and the world — and prepare for a rewarding career interpreting the past. Many graduate students in history go on to doctoral studies. Others go on to a variety of jobs in history, including:

  • History teacher at the high school or junior college level
  • Public historian
  • Museum curator
  • Archivist

The study of history is also a launching pad to success in any profession that relies on outstanding skills in research, critical thinking, and oral and written expression. For instance:

  • Journalism
  • Business
  • Government
  • Communications
  • Advertising

History alumni have gone on to a variety of successful careers with:

  • United States Department of the Army
  • Franchise Concepts Unlimited
  • Grand Forks Public Schools
  • Noel Levitz, Inc.

Master's in History Courses

HIST 501. Methods of Historical Research. 3 Credits.

This course is intended to teach graduate students to comprehend, analyze, apply, and evaluate the basic techniques and frameworks for historical research. These include basic historical theories, methods, and problems (such as causality, objectivity, types of evidence, schools of historical thought, evaluation of sources, qualitative and quantitative analysis). Students will also learn how to use standard databases and bibliographical aids to find, identify, and assess appropriate information to support, modify, or reject historical interpretations and arguments. Prerequisite: Graduate status.

HIST 502. Historiography. 3 Credits.

Required for all candidates for advanced degrees in history. An introduction to the history of historical thought, from the classical Greeks to the present, with examination of some of the works of important historians writing in the western tradition. The first half of the course is primarily devoted to classical and European historians; the second half is primarily devoted to modern and American historians.

HIST 551. Seminar in the Teaching of History. 3 Credits.

Required of all students pursuing the Doctor of Philosophy and Doctor of Arts. Includes methods appropriate to college-level teaching. Class consists of discussion, demonstration, and practice. S.

HIST 511. Research Seminar in American History. 3 Credits.

Required for all candidates for the Doctor of Philosophy, Doctor of Arts, and Master of Arts who do not take History 515. This course requires preparation of a research paper. The subject of the research will be within an announced general topic area of American History. Repeatable. Repeatable.

HIST 592. Readings in World History. 3 Credits.

This course focuses upon the reading and understanding of World History historiography, theories and methods through thematic and comparative readings. Repeatable. Repeatable.

HIST 594. Readings in European History. 2-3 Credits.

Topics vary. Involves reading, bibliographical study, discussion, and writing. Study may be confined to a subtopic within the general subject area. Repeatable with different subtopics. Students in the M.A. program with a European primary concentration will not ordinarily take more than one 594.. Repeatable to 36 credits.

Leaders in Action

History graduate student Nichole Kenney compares contrasting political opinion graphics of the past and present.

Explore More Options

Check out the faculty you'll work with at UND or discover additional education opportunities.

Department Contact
William Caraher
Graduate Program Director
P 701.777.6379
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