Bachelor of Arts in History

More fascinating than fiction, the study of the human past with all its achievements and tragedies is the centerpiece of a Bachelor of Arts in History. Completing this degree program allows you to explore topics of your own interest while simultaneously preparing you for any career that involves understanding and communicating with other people.

The Bachelor of Arts in History is designed for students with a general interest in history, as well as those students who plan on pursuing a career in history-related fields.

Accelerated Bachelor of Arts to Master of Arts in History

The Department of History offers a combined BA/MA Accelerated History Program in order that qualified students may complete the requirements for the Master of Arts degree in one year after completing their Bachelor of Arts in History.

Students must apply to this program prior to the beginning of their fourth year of baccalaureate study by November 1 (for Spring Enrollment) or March 1 (for Fall Enrollment). Students will be allowed to then double count, at maximum, twelve credits of approved coursework towards each degree (for example substituting graduate level course work for HISTORY 301WI, HISTORY 498WI, and one 300/400-level history elective). Prospective students must have a 3.75 GPA in undergraduate history courses and an overall GPA of 3.5 to be considered for for the program. Prospective students are encouraged to talk to their academic advisor and the History Graduate Coordinator before applying for the program.

Once a student has finished their undergraduate portion of the accelerated program, or are ready to graduate with their Bachelors' degree, they must complete the Dual Degree Program: Transition to Graduate Study (umkc.edu) application. That will matriculate students into their graduate level record. 

Application Information and Admissions At a Glance

Students in their Junior year of Undergraduate studies are encouraged to apply to the Accelerated BA/MA. Students should submit a brief statement of purpose that includes their academic and career goals and an academic research-based writing sample from a UMKC History course directly to the department’s administrative assistant for departmental review. Students should also request letters of recommendation from two members of the UMKC Department of History faculty. UMKC Department of History faculty will need to include the Internal Recommendation Form along with their recommendation letter. 

Current Bachelor of Arts in History students should review the Graduate and Professional Program Application Process through UMKC Admissions and the Graduate Admissions Requirements set forth by the School of Graduate Studies (SGS) prior to completing their application. In addition, prospective students are strongly encouraged to consult with the Department of History’s Master of Arts Program Coordinator and MAP Mentor before applying.

 *Consider pursuing a minor to round out your degree and enhance your career opportunities.

Note: Students interested in or desiring to become Middle or High School Social Studies teachers are encouraged to apply to the School of Education, Social Work, and Psychological Sciences’ Master of Arts in Teaching (4+1 Track). Student’s will earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in their chosen content area; at the conclusion of the bachelor’s degree students are able to complete the Master of Arts in Teaching within one year (Summer/Fall/Spring). For more information see the School of Education’s Master of Arts in Teaching (4+1 Track).

The School of Education’s Institute for Urban Education provides scholarships (between $5,000-$15,000 per year) for UMKC students interested in or desiring to become teachers in Kansas City. Additionally, Kansas City Public Schools offers Tuition Reimbursement up to $10,000 over the course of the degree/certification for teachers seeking an advanced educational degree and/or certification.