MA in History
Students in the MA in History program may choose either the 3-term (1 year) cognate option or the 6- term (2-year) thesis option. This decision must be made by the middle of January. The MA cognate essay is a research paper of approximately 12,500 words (about 50 pages). The MA thesis is a longer work of original scholarship of approximately 25,000 words (or 100 pages), accompanied by a thesis defense.
Students in both streams take six one-term graduate courses during their first two terms of study. Whichever option is chosen, students need to be aware that the MA degree is a year-round program— until all degree requirements are completed, they remain full-time students during the Summer and any subsequent terms. Both streams lead to the same degree.
MA Cognate (3 terms)
Students in this stream must meet the following requirements:
1. six one-term graduate courses (or equivalent in two-term courses), completed in the first two terms of study.
2. The cognate essay, a research paper of approximately 12,500 words (about 50 pages).
MA Thesis (6 terms)
Students in this stream must meet the following requirements:
1. Six one-term graduate courses (or equivalent in two-term courses), completed in the first two terms of study.
2. The MA thesis, a work of original historical scholarship of approximately 25,000 words (about 100 pages, typed and double-spaced), successfully defended in a formal thesis defense.
Our students explore the histories of Canada, the United States, Britain and Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, as well as international, transnational, and global history. Our regular course offerings in History are further enhanced by the Department's professionally-focused Public History field, with innovative courses, some of which are open to both History and Public History students, in digital history, museums and archives, and history pedagogy.
MA students at Western have access to a wide range of graduate courses and an excellent research library, and can expect a high degree of interpersonal contact with their professors and fellow students. Many of our graduates go on to higher degrees including the PhD in History or professional programs in law, teaching, or public administration. Others go directly onto the job market where they have found work in government, journalism, education, publishing, film and television, business consulting, and more.
Please see the Prospective Students section of our website for the application process and admission requirements, and the Graduate Program Handbook for detailed regulations and procedures.
