The degree offers students the choice of four different concentrations in either American History, Ancient and Classical History, Global History or European History. Students also have the option to choose a broad course of study with no concentration area being declared. Each option is 36 credit hours in length.
To be admitted into the Master's of Arts in History degree program, a student must possess a bachelor's level degree from an accredited degree granting institution. Students must submit an official transcript verifying their undergraduate degree or if they have already obtained a master's degree, they may submit an official advanced degree transcript for evaluation. There is no minimum GPA requirements for admittance into this program and graduate students may transfer in up to 15 qualifying credit hours from another institution.
This program has very specific objectives that include students being able to produce a historical research proposal, evaluate, synthesize and analyze at least one historical sub-division. They must provide information, either orally or written, about people, places and events that have shaped one area of history such as European history. Students should also be able to appraise different approaches to history and analyze data and concepts that are important to historical research. These objectives are a summary of those set forth by the university and are in addition to the universities overall learning objectives for students.
One option for a capstone is a thesis plan. In this program the students will complete all coursework and finalize their degree with the writing of a thesis. Preparation for this will begin on day one and culminate with a paper written on a particular problem or question relating to the student's concentration area and a distinct method of solving the problem. The other option is to participate in a practicum degree program. For this program students will take part in an internship type of experience in an institution where their field of expertise is in practice. The student will work along side of employees and gain working knowledge of their field. As with the thesis option, all other degree coursework must be successfully completed before enrolling in the faculty approved practicum.