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Major in History

History majors work closely with our nationally recognized faculty to explore the past in all its intricacies, while developing the ability to think critically and to write and speak eloquently.

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The MA and PhD Programs

The UMass/Five College graduate program in history grants students access to the exceptional resources of five campuses to provide professional training that combines intellectual breadth and historical focus.

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The Public History Program

The Public History Program at UMass Amherst aims to train graduate students to work on historical projects with a broad range of audiences and institutions, as well as to prepare them for entry level positions in museums, archives, historic preservation agencies and many other places that engage the insights and methods of historians.

Congratulations UMass History Class of 2025!

The Class of 2025

The history department warmly congratulates the 2025 BA, MA, PhD and Public History graduates on your truly remarkable accomplishments! We wish you joy and luck in all your future endeavors.

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2025 Award Winners Announced

The full list of 2025 award winners is here!

Congratulations to all of the award recipients, thesis-writers, and graduates on your dedicated work this academic year. 

It's never been more important to study history

Take a Class from UMass History

For an Uncensored Look at the Past

Summer and fall classes are enrolling now! Join us!

Summer Course Guide | Fall Undergraduate Course Guide

Professor Diana Sierra Becerra

Diana Sierra Becerra Wins College Outstanding Teaching Award

Presented annually, the College Outstanding Teaching Award recognizes faculty members who have made significant contributions to undergraduate education. Recipients are honored for their exceptional teaching, mentoring, and curriculum development, and for the meaningful impact they have on students’ academic and personal growth. 

History faculty member Diana Sierra Becerra is one of three recipients of the 2024-2025 College of Humanities and Fine Arts Outstanding Teaching Award.