MA in History and Museum Studies

The MA in History and Museum Studies combines theory and practice by bringing together scholars of the Tufts History Department and professional experts in Tufts Museum Studies program. The unparalleled wealth of historical institutions just outside our back door in the greater Boston area, provides a host of opportunities for on-site education, internships, and networking. 

As a student in the program, you'll take courses in history and museum studies simultaneously. By emphasizing both historical scholarship and practical application, the program prepares students for public history as well as museum work. Our graduates typically pursue careers as curators, collections managers, educators or administrators in historic houses, sites and museums.

Program Requirements and Policies

• The MA in History and Museum Studies requires successful completion of eleven courses: six in History and five in Museum Studies. Normally, students are expected to complete the MA program within two academic years. All students must take History 200: the Historiography Proseminar, the Museum Studies Foundation Course, one research course, three Museum Studies elective courses, and the Museum Studies Internship.
• Students will prepare one regional or comparative field of study, and examination in that field (see the MA in History requirements for more information).
• A two-semester master's thesis is optional. A thesis replaces the field of study.
• A two-semester capstone project consisting of a research paper based on primary sources and a corresponding exhibition plan is optional. This capstone replaces the field of study.
• Students must present one research project drawn from coursework to the Graduate History Roundtable.