Program Overview
Syracuse University's collaborative Ph.D. in History program prepares students for careers in academia and beyond. Students complete coursework, language exams, qualifying oral exams, and a dissertation, with close guidance from advisors and faculty. The program typically takes seven years to complete, and graduates pursue careers in academia, law, and public service.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
- The Ph.D. in history program at Syracuse University is distinctively collaborative.
- Doctoral students work closely with advisors and other faculty on focused research and prepare for comprehensive exams.
- The program of study leading to the Ph.D. consists of four elements:
- Completion of coursework
- Completion of language examination(s)
- Completion of qualifying oral examinations in three fields
- Preparation of a dissertation
- Students entering the program from an undergraduate degree can finish the program in seven years.
- Most graduates pursue careers in academia, while others choose to apply their knowledge to career fields like law or public service.
Outline:
- Coursework:
- 48 course credits (12 course credits may be outside the department)
- Courses develop basic analytical and research skills and ground students in their areas of specialization
- Dissertation:
- 24 dissertation credits must be devoted to research and writing of the dissertation
- Total Credits:
- Students must have a total of 72 credits to receive the Ph.D.
Assessment:
- Comprehensive Examinations:
- Candidates take oral comprehensive examinations at the end of their third year of graduate study (for those entering with an undergraduate degree) or at the end of their second year of graduate study (for those entering with a master's degree)
- Comprehensive examinations are approximately two hours in length and are taken in the major field and both minor fields
- Dissertation Defense:
- Conducted by a six-member examining committee, including an outside chair from another department/school
- The chair must be a tenured faculty member of the University
- The advisor and student jointly choose the remaining two members
- The doctoral proposal must be approved by the student's advisor and two other faculty members
- The student is eligible to take the oral examination after the advisor and all dissertation committee members have approved the dissertation for defense
Careers:
- Most graduates pursue careers in academia.
- Others choose to apply their knowledge to career fields like law or public service.
Syracuse University
Overview:
Syracuse University is a private research university located in Syracuse, New York. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across 13 schools and colleges. The university is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to research.
Services Offered:
Syracuse University provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
Academic advising, tutoring, writing centers, and career services.Student Life:
Housing options (on and off campus), dining services, recreational facilities, clubs and organizations, health and wellness services, and student centers.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.Research Opportunities:
Undergraduate and graduate research opportunities, university research institutes, and research facilities.International Programs:
Study abroad programs and other international academic opportunities.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Syracuse University offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including:
Athletics:
NCAA Division I athletics teams, including the renowned Syracuse Orange basketball team.Clubs and Organizations:
Over 300 student clubs and organizations covering a wide range of interests.Campus Events:
A variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and performances.Community Engagement:
Opportunities to get involved in the local community through volunteer work and service learning.Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Academic Programs:
Syracuse University is known for its strong academic programs, particularly in areas such as communications, business, engineering, and law.Research Opportunities:
The university offers a wide range of research opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students.Vibrant Campus Life:
Syracuse University has a vibrant and active campus community with a wide range of activities and events.Financial Aid:
The university provides generous financial aid packages to help students afford their education.Location:
Syracuse is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture.Academic Programs:
Syracuse University offers a wide range of academic programs, including: