Mar 28, 2024  
2016-2017 School of Graduate Studies Catalog 
    
2016-2017 School of Graduate Studies Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

History, Master of Arts


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Program Objectives

The Master of Arts – History program provides graduate candidates with the opportunity to explore a wide range of historical fields and methodologies. For those seeking intellectual enrichment, the program may culminate in a terminal MA degree. It is especially useful for secondary school teachers who wish to earn a degree that will enhance their subject knowledge while refining historical and research skills, or for museum professionals and those who seek a career in museums. For candidates who intend to continue on for advanced studies or even a doctoral degree, the MA in history program provides a firm foundation. All graduate candidates are encouraged to develop concentrations in historical areas of interest as a part of their course of study.

Program Requirements


Upon acceptance into the program, you will complete a tentative Plan of Study in consultation with the program coordinator. You must request that any transfer credits be considered at this time. PLEASE NOTE THAT NO MORE THAN THREE COURSES TAKEN AT SALEM STATE UNIVERSITY BEFORE ADMISSION CAN BE COUNTED TOWARDS THIS PROGRAM. You should meet regularly with the program coordinator to discuss your progress and revise your plan of study as needed.

Course Requirements


  1. A minimum of thirty-three hours of course work, including Historiography (HST 700 ) and Research Seminar (HST 995 ) is required. Graduate candidates may take the Research Seminar only after completing eighteen credit hours in the program. They must also take at least one distribution course in each of the following four areas.
    • African, Asian or Latin American History
    • U.S. History
    • European History
    • Public History
  1. Degree candidates are offered two capstone options. They may choose: 1) a six credit thesis (3.7 cumulative grade point average required) for a program total of 33 credits; or 2) a portfolio drawn from their course work in the program which requires course   for a program total of 35 credits. Candidates who intend to continue to doctoral studies are strongly urged to write a thesis.
     
  2. A third, 39 credit option which has no capstone event but instead, consists of taking an additional six credits (2 courses of History elective coursework) is also available.

For additional details, see the Department of History’s Graduate Student Handbook.

Total Credits: 33-39


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