PhD in History

The doctoral program in history at Boston University admits students with a history or related background and strong academic records. Its fields of focus include African, American, Asian and European history. Students are trained to design and carry out original research that leads to scholarly publication, and also to teach a broad range of topics. Coursework totals 64 units, mostly in seminars, lectures, directed research and directed study, ideally spread over four or five terms. A dissertation workshop and a professionalization seminar make up the remainder. Required courses include The Historian's Craft and Historiography. Doctoral students write at least two major research papers for the Graduate Studies Committee and must satisfy a language requirement. Graduates are expected to become professors, or to work as staff in research libraries and archives.