Traditional Master's

Why study a traditional masters degree in history at Missouri State?

The history graduate program is a 30-hour program that can be completed in one-and-a-half years and can be started in Fall, Spring, or Summer terms. Graduate-level courses in the department of history are offered in seated, online, evening, and blended formats, providing flexibility for both traditional and non-traditional students.


Track options

Graduate students in the Department of History follow one of three possible tracks in order to complete the program. Each track allows students to focus their studies on a field of specialization and, depending on the course of study, may also afford an opportunity to take courses outside the department of history.

Graduation Requirements 

Regardless of which track you select, you must choose one of two options to fulfill the graduate research requirement:

  • Thesis: This option requires that you complete a written thesis and oral presentation of your research to graduate. A thesis typically includes extensive research and analysis on a historical topic of interest.
  • Seminar: The seminar option requires the completion of a seminar paper and oral presentation of your research to graduate.

Forms necessary for successfully completing either your seminar or thesis can be accessed on the Departmental Forms.

In addition to completing a thesis or seminar paper, all history graduate students must pass a comprehensive exam. Written exams will be taken after course work is completed. An oral exam will be taken after the approval of the research requirement.

Graduate Learning Outcomes
Foreign Language Requirement
Secondary Education Sub-Track