Persons seeking an M.A. in History must first apply online for graduate admission to the university at Cal State Apply. Admission to graduate study by the university does not constitute acceptance in the History M.A. Program. It does, however, permit students to take courses as unclassified graduate students and to begin the process leading to classification.

History Department Requirements:

1. A letter of intent/statement of purpose. This should be about 200-400 words long and explain your interest in graduate work in general and in our program in particular; it should also lay out what preparation qualifies you for study for an advanced degree.
2. A writing sample (e.g. an undergraduate research paper or essay on a topic of historical interest). In your letter, please discuss the assignment for which the paper was written.
3. Undergraduate transcripts (for your last 90 quarter units or 60 semester units).
4. Two letters of recommendation (from academic instructors, where possible). These should be in sealed and signed envelopes and either included with your application or sent to us.

Upon admission to the university and graduate-level study in the History Department, the Graduate Program Director will familiarize the student with the requirements of the M.A. Program. It is the student's responsibility in consultation with the appropriate faculty members to choose an MA track, fields of study, and to organize a thesis or examination committee.

Download the M.A. application form

APPLICATION DEADLINES FOR HISTORY MA PROGRAM

The History Department has established deadlines for applications to the MA program:

Spring Semester 2026 admission: November 3, 2025

Fall Semester 2026 admission:  April 1, 2026

If you have further questions about the M.A. program, feel free to email our Graduate Program Director, Dr. Stephen Allen.