Program Description: The master of arts in history has four tracks: American or European history thesis, American or European history non-thesis, Cherokee history, and public history. All require the completion of 30 semester hours of coursework, a demonstrated reading proficiency in a foreign language, and successful completion of comprehensive exams.
The American or European history thesis option is recommended for students planning to pursue a doctorate. The thesis is a major project of original research undertaken under the guidance of a faculty member. In addition to the thesis, the degree requires 27 hours of American or European history.
The American or European history non-thesis option is a terminal degree designed for educators, professionals, or anyone desiring a deeper knowledge of history. It requires 24 hours in American or European history and six hours in other fields of history or a cognate field.
The Cherokee history track builds on Western's historical relationship with the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians. It is designed for those students interested in pursuing a doctorate in Native American studies or interested in the history and culture of the Cherokee. It requires 18 hours in American history, six to nine hours in Cherokee studies courses, and a thesis. For those not interested in further graduate study, there is also a non-thesis Cherokee history track.
The public history track is a terminal degree for students seeking employment in archives, historic sites, museums, and other public history venues. It requires 18 hours of American history, nine hours of public history courses, and an internship.
Required Standardized Test: GRE General Exam
Minimum Admissions Requirements: Same as the Graduate School
Additional Admissions Criteria: Applicants must submit three letters of recommendation and are encouraged to submit a writing sample.
Application Deadline: None
Prerequisites: None
Number of Graduate Faculty: 9
Number of Students: 30
Location of Course Offerings: Cullowhee
Graduate Program Director:
Dr. Gael Graham
Department of History
828-227-7243
graham@email.wcu.edu
Departmental Website: History - M.A.