The Ph.D. degree is awarded on the completion of a dissertation that makes a significant contribution to knowledge. The dissertation should be based upon original, independent research drawing heavily from primary sources.  From the beginning of the doctoral program, the student should be investigating possible topics in conjunction with their faculty advisor.

The candidate must also demonstrate a thorough historiographic knowledge in a major and minor field and satisfy appropriate degree-plan requirements. To achieve ABD (all but dissertation) status, the student must complete all course work; satisfy the foreign language requirement; and pass the comprehensive examination.

Plan I: B.A. to Ph.D. Track
Plan II: M.A. to Ph.D. Track