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Graduate Program in History Faculty of Graduate Studies
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Our Programs

York’s Graduate Program in History is committed to providing graduate training at the Master’s and PHD level that is both rigorous and lively, not only engaged with traditional areas of scholarship but also with newer innovations in historical research.

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MA

Graduates of our MA program go on to graduate work at York and other universities, as well as to a range of jobs in other fields.

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PhD

Our doctoral students have an excellent placement rate in academic positions across Canada and elsewhere.

The master’s program aims to provide students with the opportunity to expand their undergraduate knowledge and to sharpen their critical, research and writing skills. This is done through intensive readings required for seminars, class discussions and research and historiographical papers. A range of seminars are offered every year covering most of the geographic and thematic areas of strength of the York program.

The York MA is designed as a one-year program. Students in the Master’s program are usually required to complete three full graduate courses between September and April and a Major Research Paper of approximately 50 to 75 pages between April and August.

The doctoral program aims to train graduate students for a career of research and teaching at the university level, or for work in other areas that draws upon historical research skills and learning. It  consists of three distinct phases: (1) two terms of course work (three full courses); (2) comprehensive exams in August of the second year; and (3) the preparation of a doctoral dissertation. All requirements for the degree must be completed within 18 terms (six years).

In their first year, doctoral students select from a range of courses that will prepare them for their comprehensive exams.

Further information on courses can be found under Courses. More detailed information on the structure of the MA and PHD can be found under Degree Requirements.

The Graduate Program in History recognizes that its educational mission is enhanced by a diverse faculty and student body. To fulfill its mission of excellence in teaching and research, the program encourages applications from qualified students of diverse backgrounds, including, but not limited to women, native persons, people of various races and ethnic origins and persons with disabilities.

Learn More

The Graduate Program in History at York is an exciting environment to pursue innovative, socially engaging, career-ready education. Contact our Graduate Program Assistant to learn more.

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