Marquette University

What you'll study

Doctoral candidates design three distinct subfields in consultation with a supervising professor and the Director of Graduate Studies; these subfields are transnational in scope but typically rooted in a particular region and time. Competence across those areas is assessed by the Doctoral Qualifying Examination (DQE), which consists of nine hours of written exams and up to three hours of oral examination covering the three chosen subfields. Students must also demonstrate reading proficiency in a language other than English suitable for their research, and complete and defend a book-length dissertation that meets departmental and professional standards.

Entry requirements

• Completed master of arts in history required prior to applying.
• Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution or international equivalent (completed before starting graduate work).
• Minimum GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale.
• Applicants submit an online application and fee, transcripts, a one-page statement of purpose describing proposed areas of study, and three letters of recommendation.
• Doctoral applicants must provide a writing sample (ideally the MA thesis or, for non-thesis MA graduates, a substantial seminar paper).
• GRE general test scores are optional. International applicants must show English proficiency (TOEFL or other acceptable proof).
• Recommended: applicants should have a clear sense of the specialization or direction they intend to pursue. Application materials for fall consideration should be received by January 15.

Career prospects

The program prepares graduates for careers in academia and related public-service roles. Historically, about three-fourths of Marquette PhD alumni have secured tenure-track positions; graduates also work as research faculty, visiting assistant professors, lecturers, adjunct instructors, or teach in private high schools. The department supports career preparation through orientation, coursework, workshops, and coordination with campus services such as the Center for Teaching and Learning and the Career Center.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

The department offers a mix of teaching and research support: fourteen teaching assistantships and five research assistantships are available to incoming and continuing students. Most PhD students receive five years of financial aid through teaching or research assistantships and through teaching and research fellowships; senior PhD students may be eligible for full-year research fellowships from the Graduate School. Students also gain teaching experience by leading an undergraduate seminar and by teaching at nearby colleges. U.S. citizens and permanent residents may apply for student loans; private scholarships may also be an option. (Note: the Trinity Fellows Program referenced on the department page is a fellowship for master’s students.)