Graduate Degrees in History

Historians study the past, in all of its complexity, to better understand our contemporary world and the forces that created it. When students understand the past, they recognize their power to shape the present and the future. 

With a Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy in history, the Department of History’s graduate program offers excellent preparation for a variety of rewarding and socially valuable careers in business and academia, empowering students to shape their own future. The department also collaborates on three dual MA programs with the Department of Asian Languages and Civilizations and the Department of Religious Studies.  

Our admissions package usually includes funding for all graduate students. Typically 5 years for PhD and 2 years for MA students.

Annually, we matriculate an average of 2–5 students seeking the PhD and 6–12 students working toward the MA. This means our students typically receive closer attention from faculty members than their counterparts in larger programs.

Faculty conduct research and teach courses in a wide range of eras—from ancient to modern times—and across most major world areas. Faculty also pursue multiple methodologies and approaches.

Degree Options & Application Requirements

History


Master of Arts

  • Thesis and nonthesis options
  • Thesis-track MA students must complete a total of 24 credit hours of coursework, plus 6 credit hours of MA thesis credit.
  • Nonthesis-track MA students must complete 30 credit hours of coursework, including a minimum of 3 hours of a 7000-level research seminar.
Application Deadlines & Requirements

To learn about the upcoming term application deadlines, please visit the Graduate School website.

  For program details, review the course catalog for the MA in history.


Dual MAs

  • Related areas of study combine a master’s degree in history plus East Asian languages and civilizations (Chinese or Japanese) and religious studies. The director of graduate studies can provide details on this option.

Doctor of Philosophy

  • 69 credit hours (including required coursework, elective coursework, portfolio and dissertation)
Application Deadlines & Requirements

To learn about the upcoming term application deadlines, please visit the Graduate School website.

   For program details, review the course catalog for the PhD in history.

Research Areas

  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • The Middle East
  • Sub-Saharan Africa
  • Latin America
  • Europe
  • United States of America

Learn More About Research Areas at CU Boulder

Funding Opportunities

We understand funding opportunities play a major role in helping you to decide whether a program is right for you. At CU Boulder, PhD students are supported through research and teaching assistantships. Students are also encouraged to apply for their own sources of funding.

Explore General Funding   Explore Department-Specific Funding

Graduate Student Resources

Student success is best met with holistic support and resources. CU Boulder offers robust resources, programming and opportunities to help students establish meaningful connections, adjust to graduate student life and find assistance when they need it. Whether it’s academic, social, or health and wellness support, the university provides an array of resources to meet the diverse needs of our students.  

Explore ways to connect with other graduate students on campus, online and off campus, locally and internationally.

Learn about our commitment to ensuring our graduate education is accessible and welcoming for all students.

Find resources with contact and location information for a broad range of services.

Attend regular, graduate-specific workshops and seminars to hone practical and professional skills before entering the job market.

Connect with an established graduate peer mentor who serves as your guide through the graduate student experience.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Go to Admissions