History and Literature
The Master of Arts in History and Literature is an interdisciplinary program designed for students seeking to explore the intersections of historical events, literary expression, and cultural development. The curriculum integrates historical analysis, literary criticism, and interpretive scholarship to provide a rich understanding of how literature reflects and shapes social, political, and cultural contexts. Through this program, students develop critical analysis, research methodology, literary interpretation, and historical scholarship skills, preparing them to engage deeply with texts, historical sources, and cultural narratives while producing insightful, evidence based research.
This one year, full time and on campus program immerses students in an academic environment that combines rigorous coursework, research projects, and seminars led by faculty experts. Students refine archival research, textual analysis, historical contextualization, and interdisciplinary research skills through hands on projects and applied studies. Graduates are equipped to pursue careers in academia, cultural institutions, publishing, and public education, as well as advanced research, policy, and educational initiatives that require a sophisticated understanding of the interplay between literature, history, and society.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: History and Literature
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 09 May 2026
- Location: Columbia University, United States
- Field of Study: History
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in History and Literature
• Introduction to Historical Analysis
• Literary Criticism and Theory
• Research Methods in History and Literature
• Culture, Society, and Texts
Semester 2 – Advanced Analysis and Applied Research
• Comparative Literary and Historical Studies
• Historical Contexts of Literary Movements
• Seminar in Interdisciplinary Research
• Capstone Research Project
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, cultural organizations, publishing houses, and educational programming. Career paths include historian, literary scholar, cultural heritage specialist, researcher, and educator or lecturer. Graduates are equipped to analyze texts and historical sources, design research projects, curate educational content, and contribute to scholarly and public understanding of historical and literary intersections. The program also prepares learners for leadership, educational, and research roles that require advanced expertise in both historical and literary studies, fostering critical thinking and effective communication across disciplines.
Why Choose This Program
Students choose this program because it combines interdisciplinary scholarship, research driven training, historical and literary expertise, and applied analytical skills within a one year intensive structure. The curriculum emphasizes hands on research, critical discussion, and engagement with primary sources, allowing learners to develop practical and analytical skills for interpreting literature in its historical context. Graduates gain the knowledge, confidence, and professional competencies necessary to pursue academic, cultural, and research careers while contributing meaningfully to the understanding and dissemination of history and literature in diverse professional settings.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 212 854 1754
Email: admissions@columbia.edu
Address: University of Columbia, Admissions Office, New York, NY, United States
