M.A.History
A graduate degree in history could be the ticket to your future working in education, pursuing a career in the museum industry and a number of other career options in the private and public sectors. A Master of Arts in History is also a great way to prepare for doctoral studies. Western Carolina University offers four concentrations for its M.A. in History: American or European concentration (non-thesis option), American or European concentration (thesis option), Cherokee Studies option (American concentration, thesis or non-thesis) and Public History option (American concentration).
What You'll Learn
The Master of Arts in History is a 30-semester hour program that includes foreign language studies, a comprehensive reading list and a focus on research methods. Students will also get valuable practical experience by creating their own professional journal and will have the chance to present findings and research at conferences. Students concentrating on Cherokee Studies have the unique opportunity of immersing themselves in the culture as WCU is located in the heart of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
Where You'll Go
Many graduates choose to continue their studies in a doctoral program, but those looking to enter the workforce have exciting opportunities. Many will use their skills to teach in secondary or post-secondary classrooms. Museums offer a variety of jobs, such as archivists, researchers and curators, that allow you to continue hands-on work with history. Other opportunities in the public and private sectors exist for graduate-level degree holders. The Bureau of Labor Statistics states the average salary for museum technicians and conservators is $44,320 and the average salary for postsecondary history teachers is $77,720.
