MA in History in Kingston Canada | Queen's University

History MA candidates in our department can choose between two paths: a 12-month research paper or a more extensive 20-month thesis. Both pathways allow students to collaborate with our distinguished faculty through specialized graduate seminars covering various regions and themes, alongside methodological and historiographical coursework. The one-year research essay remains the popular choice among most students. Either option serves as strong preparation for History PhD programs, transitions into law or education degrees, or careers in government, media, and corporate sectors.

Our History Department provides rigorous MA and PhD programs exploring both traditional and emerging historical fields. Graduate students learn primarily through intimate seminar settings, where they critically analyze historical scholarship and conduct original source research. They contribute to our departmental seminar series and help organize the biennial McGill-Queen's Graduate History Conference, attracting participants from across North America. New students join a vibrant academic community, supported by our Graduate History Students' Association which advocates for student interests and organizes social activities. We actively promote international study opportunities, with MA students eligible for a term at Shanghai's Fudan University and PhD candidates able to participate in programs at the University of London or Fudan. Our graduates pursue diverse careers in academia, government, law, media, education, public history, and global business, with alumni holding positions as professors, researchers, policy experts, archivists, and cultural institution professionals including roles at Ottawa's National Gallery.