Doctor of Philosophy Degree Program

More complete information on graduate study in history may be found in the departmental statement, Graduate Program in History, available from the History Office. The University of Massachusetts/Five College Graduate Program in History offers particular strengths in Women’s History, Public History, Latin American History, and the history of the United States, as well as European History, the history of Science and Technology, and the history of the Pacific World.

Course Work

Four to eight courses in the 600-800 series, including two graduate research seminars, are generally required, the precise number depending on the field and background of the candidate.

Language Proficiency

Candidates must pass the departmental examination demonstrating reading ability in one foreign language. Students specializing in areas for which knowledge of more than one foreign language is usual for scholarly work must demonstrate reading proficiency in the relevant languages.

Preliminary Comprehensive Examination

Candidates must pass the general examination in three fields. Not more than two can be in the candidate’s area of specialization. With the approval of the major adviser and of the departmental Graduate Program Director, the candidate may pursue one field in a department other than history.

Dissertation

A dissertation, based on original research and making an original contribution, is required for the fulfillment of the degree.

Residence

Minimum: full-time residence at the University of Massachusetts Amherst for one academic year.