History | College of Liberal Arts
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Degree Program

The University of Texas' graduate program in history is designed primarily for students seeking to pursue the doctorate; only in exceptional circumstances do we admit students for the master's as a terminal degree. Most students either enter our program already holding an M.A. from another institution or earn an M.A. in our program en route to the Ph.D. Students entering with a bachelor’s degree may also choose to proceed directly to a Ph.D. without taking an M.A.

Full details on requirements and procedures for earning both the M.A. and Ph.D. can be found in the Graduate Student Handbook (PDF). More information about graduate examinations is provided in the Guide to Comprehensive Qualifying Examinations (PDF).

History Graduate Student Groups

History graduate students can join informal groups for feedback and support during the different stages of the program. To join a group, please add your name to this list.

Timeline 

Below is a suggested timeline for completing requirements for the Ph.D. in a timely manner.

1st year: Take Intro to Historical Inquiry, Pass first foreign language exam, decide on supporting field. 2nd year: Undergo review by GPC (in October), arrange for approval of transfer credit (up to 12 hours) if applicable, complete coursework, decide on exam fields and exam committee. 3rd year: Read for comprehensive qualifying exam (HIS 393L), pass 2nd language exam if applicable, apply for research funding, pass comprehensive qualifying exam (by end of spring semester). 4th year: Do research for dissertation. 5th year and beyond: Write, defend, and submit dissertation

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