Ph.D. in History

PhD Entry Requirements

Application Fees: US$ 80

Academic Qualifications: Prospective PhD applicants are expected to hold a taught Masters degree in a relevant subject area. The university typically requires a minimum of 83% or above as the standard for academic performance in the completed Masters program.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS Requirement: An overall IELTS score of  6.5 is required.
• TOEFL Requirement: A minimum overall score of 79 is often required.

Standardized Test Requirements:

• GRE (Graduate Record Examination): A GRE score of 300 is required.

Students must provide:

• Academic marksheets & transcripts
• Letters of recommendation
• A personal statement - SOP
• Passport
• Other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some PhD courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

Mississippi State University, located in Starkville, Mississippi, is a prominent institution known for its academic excellence and research innovation. For international students aspiring to pursue a Ph.D. at MSU, there are several scholarship opportunities available to support their academic journey.

International Excellence Scholarship: MSU offers the International Excellence Scholarship to outstanding international Ph.D. students. This merit-based scholarship recognizes academic achievement, research potential, and the applicant's making significant contributions to their field.

Graduate Assistantships: In addition to specific Ph.D. scholarships, international students can explore Graduate Assistantship opportunities. These positions not only provide financial support through stipends but also offer valuable research or teaching experience, enhancing the overall academic experience.

Global Leaders Scholarship: MSU's global leadership is reflected in the Global Leaders Scholarship. This award aims to attract exceptional international Ph.D. candidates who demonstrate leadership qualities, community engagement, and a strong commitment to cross-cultural collaboration.

Research Fellowships: For Ph.D. students engaged in cutting-edge research, MSU provides Research Fellowships that support innovative projects. These fellowships often cover tuition, stipends, and research-related expenses, fostering a dynamic research environment.

Graduate School Diversity Fellowship: MSU values diversity and inclusivity. The Graduate School Diversity Fellowship encourages underrepresented international students to pursue doctoral studies by providing financial assistance and fostering a supportive academic community.

Graduates with a Ph.D. in History from Mississippi State University (MSU) possess advanced research, analytical, and communication skills that make them well-suited for diverse and rewarding career paths. The program's emphasis on historical analysis and critical thinking prepares individuals for roles beyond academia.

University Professor: Graduates can pursue academic careers as university professors, teaching history at the undergraduate and graduate levels. They may also engage in research, publishing scholarly articles, and contributing to the academic community.

Historical Researcher: Many Ph.D. holders opt for roles as historical researchers, working in research institutions, think tanks, or museums. They may conduct original research, contribute to historical publications, and curate exhibits.

Archivist or Curator: Careers in archives and museums involve preserving and showcasing historical artifacts. Graduates may work as archivists or curators, managing collections and providing historical context to exhibits.

Public Historian: Public historians work outside traditional academic settings, engaging with broader audiences. They may work in government agencies, cultural organizations, or as consultants, translating historical knowledge for public consumption.

Government Historian: Graduates can pursue careers as government historians, working for federal, state, or local government agencies. They may contribute to policy development, conduct historical research, or work on preservation projects.

Historical Consultant: Consulting roles allow Ph.D. graduates to offer historical expertise to businesses, law firms, or non-profit organizations. They may assist with projects requiring historical research, analysis, and interpretation.

Educational Administrator: Some graduates transition to educational administration roles, becoming department chairs, deans, or administrators in educational institutions. Their deep understanding of history informs decision-making in academic settings.

Writer or Editor: Ph.D. holders may pursue careers as writers or editors, contributing to historical publications, journals, or even working in the publishing industry. They may also write historical fiction or non-fiction books.

Cultural Resource Manager: Graduates may work in cultural resource management, ensuring that historical sites and resources are preserved and managed responsibly. This can involve collaboration with government agencies or private organizations.

Digital Historian: In the age of technology, some Ph.D. graduates specialize in digital history. They may work on digital archives, create online historical content, or contribute to the development of historical databases.

Historical Consultant for Media: Graduates can become consultants for historical documentaries, films, or television programs. Their expertise ensures historical accuracy in media productions.

International Relations Specialist: With a global perspective gained during their studies, graduates may explore careers in international relations, contributing historical insights to diplomatic or international organizations.