The MA concentration in American History is an ideal program for students looking to continue their studies beyond the undergraduate level. We offer a flexible curriculum, providing detailed training in historical methods and research. Faculty expertise extends chronologically from the colonial era to the present day, with particular expertise in the American Revolution, Early Republic and Civil War eras. Thematically, the department has experts in urban history, social history, women's history, African-American history and political history.
The MA in American History offers courses that can be taken in a blended format, with the opportunity to take many courses online. We have considerable experience training teachers seeking continuing professional development, recent graduates seeking more detailed training in research and writing and professional workers seeking to develop research skills. Students have graduated from our MA program into numerous PhD programs across the country.
Learning Outcomes
- Master skills in historical research and primary source analysis.
- Develop expertise in historical writing and interpretation.
- Understand global, national and local historical contexts.
Calendar
Don't miss an important date or deadline
Designed for working professionals, UIS programs feature multiple start dates per year, so you can begin at the time that best fits your schedule and complete your degree quickly. View the Academic Calendar
Tuition & Aid
UIS is the most affordable option to earning your University of Illinois degree. Earn a world-class education for less than you’d expect.
Value of a UIS Degree
UIS is No. 5 for students graduating with the least amount of debt, Midwest Region (2021).
Top 25 best value school, Midwest Region, and the only public university in Illinois on the list (2022, 2023, 2024).
98% of students receive aid
The average graduate from UIS will see an increase in earnings of $31,700 - $69,000 each year compared to someone with a high school diploma working in Illinois.
Admissions
Applying to UIS is simple
We've streamlined our admission process to save you time and effort. Just follow the steps below.
Review admission requirements
No specific admission requirements are listed at this time. Please contact the Office of Admission for more information.
International students, will you need an F-1 student visa to study on campus at UIS? Please review the International Applicants site for additional information.
Complete your application
An email address is required to create an account. To submit a paper application, visit the Resources & Forms page. Find more information about what type of student you are on the Student Types page. Applying for an online program is the same procedure as applying for an on-campus program.
Send your official transcripts
Email your official or certified academic records/transcripts to incomingtranscripts@uis.edu or through any of the major transcript platforms. Photocopies will not be accepted.
Submit required statements/writing sample
If you are a first-year student, a statement of 250-650 words is required for admission. We want to hear about your professional aspirations, intellectual interests, and personal experiences relevant to your choice of a specific academic program. You can upload the required documents on you're application status page.
Pay your application fee
You can submit your non-refundable application fee online, after completing the online application. Alternately, it can also be mailed to the university, payable to University of Illinois Springfield.
Domestic students: Undergraduate - $50, Graduate - $60;
International students: Undergraduate - $60, Graduate - $75.
Program Details & Course Information
At the University of Illinois Springfield, you'll find a wide range of courses tailored to your interests and career goals. Explore your program details and get all the essential information you need to plan your future.
Career Opportunities
Exploring the following career paths can help you see how your degree opens up a wide range of exciting and rewarding opportunities in various fields.
- Antique Dealer
- Archivist
- Auctioneer
- Biographer
- Carriage Tour Operator
- Cultural Specialist
- Dig Site Assistant
- Docent
- Documentary Editor
- Historical Photographer
- Interpreter
- Legal Assistant
- Legislative Staff
- Media Coordinator
- Museum Tech
- Park Ranger
- Political Assistant
- Public Relations Coordinator
- Research Assistant
- Technical Writer
- Tour Guide
- Vintage Clothing Specialist
- Volunteer Coordinator
- Writer/Journalist
