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Degree Timeline

The MA program is usually four semesters, full-time, although the degree can be expedited with summer coursework and research, or expanded to be completed part-time over more semesters. Students can also begin the program in any semester: fall, spring, or summer.

Here we map out a timeline for the degree. Students should meet regularly with the graduate director and, when relevant, their MA project or thesis advisor, to make sure that they are meeting the curriculum and planning a program of study that aligns with their specific academic and professional goals.

 

Projected Timeline - Full-Time Student, Beginning in Fall Semester

First Semester (Fall)

  • Meet with your advisor or graduate program director to discuss research focus (thesis or non-thesis) and identify committee members.
  • HIST 6605 Introduction to Graduate Studies in History
  • If offered, take also HIST 6610 History in the Digital Age
  • Use these other courses to help shape the scope, scale, and major questions of your research.

 

Second Semester

  • Complete HIST 6600 Proseminar and use that courses to help shape the historiography of your research.
  • If offered, consider taking HIST 6623 Global Idaho (or plan for your internship)
  • Hold regular meetings with your advisor to discuss your research, outside of regular coursework.
  • Decide whether to pursue the thesis or non-thesis option.

 

Third Semester

  • If not taken already, take HIST 6610 History in the Digital Age
  • Students planning to write a thesis must submit a thesis proposal to the student's advisor and hold a meeting to discuss the proposal and gain committee approval no later than the first month of the semester prior to graduation.
  • Enroll in either HIST 6645 Independent Research Project (3cr.) or HIST 6650 Thesis (3cr.)
  • Hold regular meetings with your faculty advisor to discuss your research progress.

 

Final Semester

  • Complete Global Idaho or an Internship
  • Enroll in either HIST 6645 Independent Research Project (3cr.) or HIST 6650 Thesis (3cr.)
  • Apply for graduation (early in the semester)
  • Students completing a thesis must enroll in thesis credits and arrange with committee for defense prior to Graduate School deadlines. Note that an oral defense in summer is not normally possible.
  • Non-thesis students must complete written and oral exams prior to Graduate School deadlines.

 

Note that examinations on final projects -- MA project or MA Thesis -- are usually not possible during a summer semester.