History, PhD
The Graduate Program in History at the University of Pennsylvania has a long tradition of distinction. Beginning as one of the first programs in the United States to offer doctoral study in history, (the first Ph.D. in History was conferred in 1891); the Department continues to pioneer new areas of scholarship. In the last twenty years, faculty members of the departments in American, European, and World History have assumed a leading role in their fields. Today, few departments in the country match Penn's Department of History in coverage and depth across the entire range of history from medieval times to the present.
For more information: http://www.history.upenn.edu/graduate/program-guidelines
University PhD Benchmarks
In addition to Program requirements, the following milestones must be completed:
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Qualifying Evaluation | ||
| Candidacy Examination | ||
| Dissertation Defense/Oral Exam | ||
| Dissertation Deposit | ||
For more information view the University’s Academic Rules for PhD Programs.
Sample Plan of Study
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| HIST 7000 | Proseminar in History (Taken twice) | 2 |
| Additional coursework chosen in consultation with advisor | 12 | |
| Additional Requirements | ||
| Teaching Requirement | ||
Four semesters of teaching are required | ||
| Language Requirement | ||
Students must demonstrate proficiency in 1-2 languages depending on their field of study 1 | ||
| Field Requirements | ||
| Total Course Units | 14 | |
University PhD Benchmarks
In addition to Program requirements, the following milestones must be completed:
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Qualifying Evaluation | ||
| Candidacy Examination | ||
| Dissertation Defense/Oral Exam | ||
| Dissertation Deposit | ||
For more information view the University’s Academic Rules for PhD Programs.
- 1
Students in European history must demonstrate competence in at least two European languages.
Students in Early American and in US history must demonstrate competence in at least one language other than English.
Students in the history of other parts of the world must demonstrate competence in at least two languages other than English.
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2025 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.