Graduate Studies

We take a dynamic and flexible approach in how 21st-century scholars study the past. Grounded in Iowa State’s land-grant mission, we prepare our graduate students with unique rigor and flexibility to become multi-skilled, outward-looking professionals, who are prepared to lead careers in academia, government, the public sphere, and private enterprise.

We build and nurture students from diverse backgrounds in a wide range of fields and methods, preparing them to recognize emerging questions and take up rewarding professional careers.

Master of Arts in history

Our graduate program for the Master of Arts degree in history is currently undergoing a complete revision. Please contact the director of graduate education, Kathleen Hilliard, if you would like further information.

Graduate minor in history

If you are enrolled in other graduate programs at Iowa State, you may obtain a graduate minor in history by completing at least 12 credits of approved history courses. These courses must include:

• A minimum of 6 credits at the 5000-6000 level, including at least 3 credits in a research seminar or research-focused special topics (HIST 5900)
• A maximum of 6 credits at the 4000-level (HIST 4900, HIST 4950, and HIST 4980 are excluded)
• All courses must be completed with a grade of B or higher

As directed by the Graduate College Handbook, you must receive approval from the Department of History and your major’s Program of Study (POS) committee to pursue a graduate history minor. A graduate history faculty member also must serve on the POS committee.

Learning goals

1. Demonstrate appropriate command of scholarly literature, particularly in areas of historical study, and exhibit a solid understanding of basic methodologies of historical study in general.
2. Develop research projects that expand historical knowledge and understanding in particular areas.
3. Conduct research and interpret results appropriately, integrating them into existing disciplinary knowledge.
4. Communicate research findings effectively to a variety of audiences in both oral and written forms and through other media when appropriate.
5. Exhibit professionalism and correct ethical practices in scholarship and other professional conduct.
6. Cultivate an awareness of the full range of career options available to historians and the applicability of historical knowledge in diverse contexts.