MA in History in Washington United States | Howard University

Howard University's M.A. in History program stands out for its excellence in regional, transnational, and comparative studies of the African Diaspora, along with public history. Recognized by U.S. News, our History graduate program ranks 48th nationally, while our African American History program holds the impressive 3rd position.
The Master of Arts in History at Howard's Graduate School equips students for doctoral studies or professional paths in education, public history, archival work, law, public policy, or research across various sectors. Distinguished by its focus on regional, traditional, transnational, and comparative historical approaches, the program offers close guidance from renowned faculty specializing in African diaspora studies, including social, economic, intellectual, cultural, urban, and gender history. Students can specialize in one of six areas: United States, African-American, African, African diaspora, Latin American and Caribbean, or public history. The curriculum emphasizes original research in chosen subfields while enhancing analytical capabilities, with options for either a thesis or non-thesis track (the latter requiring a seminar paper). Washington, D.C.'s prime location provides unparalleled access to research institutions like the Library of Congress, National Archives, and Smithsonian, all near Howard's campus. Students also benefit from the Washington, D.C. Consortium's extensive resources and can engage with local historical organizations such as the D.C. Historical Society and D.C. Preservation League.