M.A. students likely to continue on to the Ph.D. degree are to be assigned an advisor in their main field of interest. Any time in his or her M.A. program a student may request the assignment of another academic advisor. The M.A. student should, in conjunction with an advisor, decide early in his or her first year on the basic configuration of a program. The three biggest options concern number of fields, choice of tool of research, and the writing of a thesis. The student and advisor should also work out a tentative timetable for the completion of course work, tool of research exam, and comprehensive examination.
Most students choose one field of study without writing a thesis.
Although the colloquia provide particularly important information and methods, students should use their elective courses to help them cover important areas within the field, and they should also expect to do additional reading on their own. An alternative structure for the M.A. involves work in two separate historical fields. This arrangement is designed for someone who has, for example, an interest in both American and European history, an interest in American history and public history, or a need for an interdisciplinary field. The definition of fields and the apportioning of courses should be done in careful consultation with the advisor. The Department has created a regular cluster of courses and internships for those who wish to do a minor field in public history.