FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Graduate Study in History at UIC
FAQs
How many courses must I take if I already have a master's degree?
Students who enter the Ph.D. program with a master’s degree are normally required to take 16 hours (four courses). However, students who enter the program with an MA from outside UIC or in a discipline other than history may be required to take supplementary coursework as appropriate. Any such additional requirement(s) will be specified in the letter offering admission.
How many 500-level courses must MA students take?
MA students must take 20 hours (five courses) of 500 level courses (courses open only to graduate students).
How many sets of examinations will I take?
All students will take and pass one set of general examinations in order to obtain their final degree. MAT and stand-alone MA students will take comprehensive exams. Students accepted into the Ph.D. program (with or without a master’s degree) will take preliminary examinations. Students are not asked to take both comprehensive and preliminary examinations.
Do Ph.D. students receive the MA?
If the student wishes to receive an MA en route to the PhD, they can apply to graduate with their MA after they complete their coursework. However, this process is not automatic, as students must express their desire to receive an MA to the Graduate Program Coordinator (and complete the online Intent to Graduate Form) at the beginning of the term in which they hope to receive the MA.
What if I desire an exemption from certain requirements?
Students seeking exemptions from Department of History or Graduate College regulations must fill out a special form, known as a petition, which can be obtained from the Graduate Secretary. The student is responsible for explaining fully and clearly the rationale for the exemption. The petition must be signed by the student and endorsed by the student’s faculty adviser. Not all petitions will be granted.
What if I need a leave of absence?
Ph.D. candidates who have passed their preliminary examinations are not eligible for leaves of absence.