Texas Woman's University

What you'll study

The curriculum includes one required core course plus elective choices so you can construct a program that matches your interests.

• Required course: Research Methods in History — introduces the kinds of questions historians ask and the basic methods they use to find answers.
• U.S. History: Three graduate courses in U.S. history (examples the program lists include Colonial America, the American West, the Great Depression, World War II, among others).
• Non-U.S. History: One graduate course outside U.S. history (examples include the Renaissance, Latin America, History of France, etc.).
• Elective: One additional graduate history course of your choice (examples given include the American Revolution, the Civil War, Women’s History, and many others).
• Capstone requirement: Submit a portfolio with at least one research project from coursework and a personal statement connecting the coursework to your career, then participate in a formal faculty committee conversation (a "defense") about the portfolio.

Entry requirements

Admission is rolling. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree and have a minimum GPA of 3.25 on the last 60 semester credit hours of undergraduate work. Required application materials include a writing sample (a college paper in any subject or a 2–3 page personal statement), a curriculum vitae, and contact information for three individuals who can provide letters of recommendation via the online application. Official transcripts from each college or university attended must be submitted. International applicants must provide a credential evaluation from a NACES or AICE member service rather than sending transcripts directly to TWU. An application fee applies, with specified waivers for eligible applicants.

Career prospects

The certificate is structured to satisfy the 18-hour subject requirement that Texas law requires for dual credit and community college history instructors when the applicant already holds an MA in any field. Graduates are therefore positioned to qualify for teaching history in dual credit high school classrooms or community college courses; the program’s schedule and delivery formats are intended to work alongside current employment for teachers and other working professionals.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

TWU highlights relative affordability among Texas public universities and notes that graduates of the standalone certificate are well-positioned to increase their income by becoming eligible to teach dual credit or at community colleges. Prospective applicants should check TWU’s Graduate Admissions and departmental pages for assistantship opportunities, application fee waivers, and any program-specific funding options.