Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Graduate Study in History at UIC

How many courses must I take if I already have a master's degree? Students who enter the Ph.D. program with a master's degree are normally required to take 16 hours (four courses). However, students who enter the program with an M.A. from outside UIC or in a discipline other than history may be required to take supplementary coursework as appropriate. Any such additional requirement(s) will be specified in the letter offering admission.

How many 500-level courses must M.A. students take? MA students must take 20 hours (five courses) of 500 level courses (courses open only to graduate students).

How many sets of examinations will I take? All students will take and pass one set of general examinations in order to obtain their final degree. M.A.T. and stand-alone M.A. students will take comprehensive exams. Students accepted into the Ph.D. program (with or without a master's degree) will take preliminary examinations. Students are not asked to take both comprehensive and preliminary examinations.

Do Ph.D. students receive the M.A.? Yes. Students entering the Ph.D. program with a bachelor's degree will be reviewed after their second year of coursework to determine whether they will be allowed to proceed to the Ph.D. If the student receives a favorable evaluation this decision automatically confers the M.A. If the Department decides that a student should not move on to Ph.D. candidacy, the student will be required to complete all the requirements for the stand-alone M.A.

For More Information

While the graduate program at UIC offers a comprehensive program of study, it has a very individualized approach. In this spirit, please feel free to make an appointment to visit the department in person or to email the Director of Graduate Studies.

Ina Zweiniger-Bargielowska
Director of Graduate Studies
900 University Hall (M/C 198)
601 S. Morgan St.
Chicago, IL 60607-7109
inazb@uic.edu

Linda VanPuyenbroeck
Assistant to the Director of Graduate Studies
902 University Hall (M/C 198)
601 S. Morgan St.
Chicago, IL 60607-7109
(312) 996 3141
lindavp@uic.edu

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