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The History Department provides comprehensive education in historical studies while allowing for specialized research focus. Students primarily pursue a Doctor of Philosophy degree, with the Master's serving as a stepping stone toward this objective. Our curriculum equips students with research expertise for doctoral work, teaching preparation for higher education roles, and diverse professional skills to apply historical knowledge in both academic and non-academic environments. Those focusing on public historical studies gain qualifications for careers in community institutions like museums, preservation organizations, and oral history initiatives, or as independent consultants. Our alumni are equally prepared for academic positions in public history instruction at colleges and universities, frequently building careers that bridge scholarly and practical applications of history.
Applicants must meet general university requirements for admission to graduate standing and should have completed an undergraduate major in History or related fields (approximately 40 upper-division quarter units or approximately 24 upper-division semester units).
The minimum score for consideration is 550 when taking the paper-based TOEFL, or 80 when taking the internet-based test. UCSB also considers a minimal score of 7 on the IELTS.
Deadline: Fall Only: December 13