The VCU Department of History has provided a dynamic program for graduate study since 1994. Its flexibility, award-winning faculty and urban research environment provide multiple scholarly and public history opportunities for a diverse student body. The graduate program in history offers what you need to reach your academic and career goals each step of the way and offers both a thesis or non-thesis concentration.
History faculty have received national and international recognition in scholarly research and publishing while maintaining a strong commitment to students and teaching. The department has particular strengths in early American history, Southern history, African American history, trans-Atlantic history, public history and modern U.S. and European history.
Rigorous courses offer strong academic training with emphasis on researching, writing and developing professional leadership. Located on an urban campus between Richmond’s vibrant downtown and the historic Fan district, the program takes advantage of multiple research and internship opportunities in which students can make connections with professionals working in the field. Our professors and students alike cultivate community partnerships for ongoing historical investigations.
The department’s flexibility gives students a multitude of options. Students can attend classes on a part-time or full-time basis. The M.A. program is designed to be completed in two years for students attending full-time, or in less than six years for students attending part-time. Classes are held in the late afternoons and evenings to accommodate work schedules.
Experiential Learning
Graduate course student projects regularly involve research and professional presentations at nearby historical institutions. Recent graduate internships have included placements at Agecroft Hall, Institute for Contemporary Art, Library of Virginia, Richmond Public Library, Virginia Museum of History and Culture, Virginia War Memorial and the Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site, most of which are within walking distance from campus. More than 50 museums, archives, historic sites and other institutions in the Richmond area provide special opportunities for a broad-range of hands-on experience in the field.
Financial Support
Students are eligible for a variety of financial aid opportunities on a competitive basis. Teaching assistantships include a stipend. Some students may also receive partial tuition scholarships based on availability. The history department offers research travel grants through the F. Robert Schilling, Jr. Fund, as well as the James Tice Moore Scholarship for Teachers, the William E. Blake Scholarship and the Craig Kennedy Scholarship. Visit the financial support page for more information.
A Community of Excellence
Our students enjoy small classes, and work closely with faculty to develop their course of study. Recruited nationally and internationally, our students come with a variety of life experiences and career goals. Students build community and connections through a vibrant History Graduate Student Association and a strong network of graduate program alumni in the area working in a variety of professional fields.
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