Program Overview
The University of Kansas offers an exceptional master’s in history designed for students passionate about historical research, analysis, and interpretation. This master’s degree in history provides rigorous training in historiography, research methodology, and scholarly writing while allowing students to engage deeply with diverse historical periods, geographic regions, and thematic approaches. By pursuing the MA History at KU, students gain advanced research skills, professional development experience, and a nuanced understanding of how historical interpretation shapes contemporary conversations.
The master’s in history at KU emphasizes close faculty mentorship and small graduate seminars. Students work directly with faculty advisors to design a focused course of study aligned with their research interests, whether in U.S., European, African, Latin American, Asian, or global history. Through the history master’s program, students refine their analytical frameworks, develop original research projects grounded in primary sources, and contribute meaningfully to scholarly dialogue.
Whether you are preparing for doctoral study or exploring careers in public history, education, museums, archives, government, or policy analysis, the master of arts in history at KU provides the intellectual and professional foundation you need to succeed:
- Comprehensive study of historical fields including U.S., European, African, Latin American, Asian, and global history
- Advanced training in historiography and research methodologies
- Small seminars that foster collaborative discussion and critical engagement
- Close mentorship from nationally and internationally recognized faculty
- Opportunities for professional development, conference participation, and teaching experience
As one of the best history graduate programs in the region, KU’s program prepares students to think historically across boundaries, examine change over time, and interpret complex evidence with precision.
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For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
History, MAKU College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
The Master’s of History is part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, home to a collaborative and creative community making the world better through inquiry and research.Master’s in History Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the master’s in history will demonstrate advanced competencies consistent with professional historical practice and national disciplinary standards. Upon completion of the MA History, students will be able to:
- Conduct independent historical research using primary and secondary sources, including archival and digital materials
- Situate research within relevant historiographical debates and scholarly conversations
- Develop and sustain a clear, original historical argument supported by appropriate evidence
- Communicate complex historical analysis effectively in written, oral, and public-facing formats
- Evaluate historical context, continuity, and change across time and place
- Demonstrate professional research ethics and scholarly standards appropriate to the discipline
Through this master’s degree in history, students refine both intellectual independence and collaborative scholarly engagement.
What Careers are Possible with a Master’s in History?
Graduates of the master of arts in history from KU pursue diverse career paths that value analytical thinking, research expertise, and strong communication skills. The master’s in history prepares students for roles in:
- Teaching in secondary and higher education
- Research positions in museums, archives, and libraries
- Policy analysis and government roles
- Work in nonprofits, international organizations, and cultural institutions
- Public history and heritage preservation
The history master’s program equips graduates with transferable skills in critical thinking, persuasive writing, and evidence-based analysis. Many alumni continue into PhD programs, while others leverage their graduate training in professional fields requiring advanced research and communication abilities.
According to Lightcast, employment for individuals with a master’s in history is projected to grow approximately 3% over the next decade, with a current national median annual salary of approximately $72,000.
Tuition and Financial Aid
The MA in History program at KU is committed to providing an affordable education. Tuition rates are competitive, and students have access to various financial aid options, including assistantships, fellowships and federal aid programs.
For more information on tuition rates and available financial support, visit KU Financial Aid.
Admission Requirements
To apply for the master’s in history at KU, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with official transcripts
- Statement of academic objectives, including a clear plan for graduate research in a specific field of study
- Resume/CV
- Three letters of recommendation
- Writing sample, maximum 25 pages
- A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
For more detailed information on how to apply, visit KU Graduate Admissions.
Student Life and Learning Experiences
Students in the master’s in history benefit from hands-on research opportunities, faculty mentorship, and engagement in a vibrant scholarly community. The history master’s program emphasizes archival research, seminar discussion, and professional development activities that prepare graduates for academic and public-facing careers.
Students have access to KU’s extensive library system, special collections, and digital research resources. Regional historical institutions — including the Kansas Historical Society and the National Archives at Kansas City — provide valuable research and internship opportunities.
Graduate students participate in the History Graduate Student Organization (HGSO), which organizes professional workshops, guest lectures, conference travel support initiatives, and community-building events. Through these experiences, students in the master of arts in history build professional networks and develop leadership skills.
Master’s in History Sample Courses
The master’s in history offers graduate seminars and research courses across multiple historical fields. Course offerings may include:
- The Nature of History
- Globalization in History
- Ethnohistory of the Americas
- Colloquium in Global Environmental History
For a full list of available courses, visit the KU Catalog.
Master’s in History Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in two years.