UNIVERSITY OF CALGARY · CANADA
Master of Arts in History (Course-Based)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 12 months durationProgram Length
- 8 courses plus Major Research EssayProgram Structure
- Develop reading knowledge in a second languageLanguage Requirement
- Supervisor required, but not prior to applicationSupervision
- Pre-requisite for PhD studiesAcademic Pathway
This course-based Master of Arts in History program is designed for students pursuing academic careers, professional roles, or further part-time study in history. You will engage in graduate seminars covering diverse thematic and geographic areas, culminating in a research-based essay. The program emphasizes rigorous research methods and scholarly writing, preparing you for advanced academic work or specialized careers.
Curriculum
The program requires completion of eight courses and a Major Research Essay. Core courses include Historiography and the Theories of History, along with two research and writing courses to support essay development. Additional courses can explore a wide range of topics, including Canadian, European, Latin American, and US history, as well as intellectual and political history.
- Year 1
- Historiography and the Theories of History
- Research and Writing Course 1
- Research and Writing Course 2
- Elective Courses (Topics may include Canada, Europe, Latin America, United States, science, intellectual history, political history, and more)
- Major Research Essay (approx. 9,000 words)
Careers
Graduates are prepared for a variety of career paths in historical research, consulting, education, public history, government analysis, civil service, diplomacy, writing, and editing. This Master's degree also serves as a prerequisite for doctoral studies.
- Historical Research Consultant
- Teacher
- Public Historian
- Government Research Analyst
- Civil Servant
- Diplomat
- Writer
- Editor
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the MA in History program?
- You typically need a four-year undergraduate program with honours or a major in history. A minimum GPA of 3.4 on a four-point scale (or equivalent) over your final 60 units of undergraduate study is also required.
- How long does the MA in History program take to complete?
- The program is designed for 12 months of duration, requiring the completion of eight courses and a Major Research Essay.
- What documents do I need to submit for my application?
- You need to prepare your undergraduate transcripts, a statement of research interest, a curriculum vitae, two letters of reference, and a sample of your previous written work.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- Information on current tuition fees for international students can be found in the Graduate Calendar.
- When is the application deadline for the September intake?
- The application deadline for both domestic and international students for admission in September is January 15.
- What are the career prospects after completing this MA in History?
- Graduates are prepared for careers in historical research, consulting, education, public history, government analysis, civil service, diplomacy, writing, and editing, or they can pursue doctoral studies.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeNormally a four-year undergraduate program with honours or a major in history. A minimum GPA of 3.4 on a four-point scale (or equivalent) over the final 60 units of undergraduate study is required.
English Language ProficiencyRefer to the Academic Calendar for accepted criteria and specific requirements.
A sample of written work (e.g., unpublished essays, thesis chapters) is required. Two letters of reference are necessary. A statement of research interest (up to 500 words) outlining your interests, research background, and potential Major Research Essay topics is also needed, along with a curriculum vitae.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the Graduate Calendar for current tuition fees.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the Graduate Calendar for current tuition fees.
LivingInformation on estimated living costs can be found in the Graduate Calendar.
Information on fees and fee regulations, as well as awards and financial assistance, is available in the Graduate Calendar.
How to apply
1. Prepare Application DocumentsGather your undergraduate transcripts, a statement of research interest (up to 500 words), a curriculum vitae, and two letters of reference. You will also need a sample of your previous written work.
2. Check English Proficiency RequirementsIf English is not your primary language, ensure you meet the English language proficiency requirements as outlined in the Academic Calendar.
3. Submit ApplicationComplete the online application form by the deadline. For admission in September, the deadline for both domestic and international students is January 15.
4. Await DecisionApplications are reviewed by the department. You will be notified of the admission decision.
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the MA in History program?
+
You typically need a four-year undergraduate program with honours or a major in history. A minimum GPA of 3.4 on a four-point scale (or equivalent) over your final 60 units of undergraduate study is also required.
How long does the MA in History program take to complete?
+
The program is designed for 12 months of duration, requiring the completion of eight courses and a Major Research Essay.
What documents do I need to submit for my application?
+
You need to prepare your undergraduate transcripts, a statement of research interest, a curriculum vitae, two letters of reference, and a sample of your previous written work.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
Information on current tuition fees for international students can be found in the Graduate Calendar.
When is the application deadline for the September intake?
+
The application deadline for both domestic and international students for admission in September is January 15.
What are the career prospects after completing this MA in History?
+
Graduates are prepared for careers in historical research, consulting, education, public history, government analysis, civil service, diplomacy, writing, and editing, or they can pursue doctoral studies.