History (MA)
Please visit the program page to learn about curriculum, faculty, careers, and more! To request more information about this degree, please fill out our form. Questions? Contact admissions via email or at 617-521-2868.
How to Apply
To get started on your application, click the link below:
Spring 2026
Spring 2026 Master of Arts in History Application
Fall 2026
Fall 2026 Master of Arts in History Application
Application Requirements
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. All grade point averages are considered, but a B (3.0) average or higher is preferred. In general, applicants are expected to submit a completed application file that includes the following:
- A completed online application form
- Current résumé
- Statement of purpose that addresses the following: Discuss your reasons for pursuing history at the graduate level. Include any information about your academic background, your research interests, and your future aspirations as they pertain to this degree program.
- Two letters of recommendation, at least one from an academic source
- Interview (strongly recommended). After your application has been submitted and all materials, including all of your transcripts, have been received, we will reach out to you to schedule your interview. Travel to Boston is not required; interviews are available via phone as well as in person.
- An analytical writing sample (preferably a research paper written for a college course)
- Official college transcripts from every college or university attended. Must include degree conferral.
- TOEFL or Duolingo scores, if English is not the applicant's first language
- Non-refundable application fee of $35 (payable to Simmons University)
Application Deadlines
Fall (September)
Priority Deadline: February 1
Regular Deadline: May 1
Rolling admission after May 1
Spring (January)
Priority Deadline: October 15
Regular Deadline: December 15
Rolling admission after December 15
Can I submit my online application before all of my required materials are received?
Yes, and we encourage it! Once you submit your application, you will be able to log in to the self-service center (linked at the top of this page) to check the status of your application and to see if your materials have been received. Prior to submitting your application, you will not be able to check your status online.
What should I do if my recommenders did not receive an email requesting a letter?
First, suggest your recommender check her/his spam folder. Since the notifications come from an automated system, the messages often end up in spam. Not there? Contact us and we can resend the notification. You can also resend invitations from your self-service center. And, finally, recommenders are always welcome to email a recommendation letter to us at [email protected]. We'll be glad to manually add it to your application.
How quickly are my application materials processed?
Once you submit your application, we will look for any previously received materials to attach to your application. It usually takes 1-5 business days for our office to process and attach materials. To ensure receipt of your materials in our office, please ensure that items sent by mail are issued to the following exact address:
Simmons University
Graduate Studies Admission
300 The Fenway
Boston, MA 02115
How long will a decision take after my application is complete?
We begin reviewing spring applications in October, and fall applications in January. Once we begin reviewing applications, you will receive a decision within 3-4 weeks from your completion date.
Will my decision letter be emailed or mailed?
Your decision letter(s) will be released through your application portal. You will receive an email notice that your application status has been updated to 'Decision Released,' and you will be prompted to log into your application portal to view your decision.
Can I take classes before I apply?
If you are unsure about enrolling in a graduate program, or just want to advance your educational experience, all of our master's degree programs offer the option to enroll in up to two graduate-level courses (eight credits) as a non-degree student before formally applying to a program. Additional details about non-degree registration, including current course offerings, can be found on our Non-Degree Options page.
Do I need to submit the FAFSA by the priority admission deadline?
No. Students interested in applying for federal financial aid, which is awarded in the form of loans, may do so at any point by submitting the FAFSA and the Simmons University Student Information Form to the Simmons University Office of Student Financial Services. Contact their office via email at [email protected] or by calling 617-521-2001.
Upon acceptance, eligible applicants receive automatic consideration for merit-based scholarships. Most merit-based scholarships are awarded based on the overall strength of an application for admission, and no separate application is required.
Resources
Request information
Learn more about what makes Simmons University special.
Tuition and fees
Tuition and fees at Simmons are updated annually each spring. They are assessed each semester based on the number of credits enrolled, the level of degree, and the particular program of study.
Merit scholarships and funding options
We believe that your exceptional academic preparation and hard work should be rewarded.
Health insurance
All students taking 9 or more credits are required by Massachusetts State law to enroll in the Student Health Insurance Plan or be covered by a health insurance plan with comparable coverage.
Non-degree enrollment option
If you are unsure about enrolling in a graduate program, or just want to advance your educational experience, non-degree study at Simmons is the best option for you.
Contact us
Questions? Contact us via email or at 617-521-2915. We're happy to schedule visits and campus tours.
Upcoming Graduate Admission Events
Chart Your Path to Becoming a Registered Dietitian at Simmons!
- Jan 27, 2026
- 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm
- Virtual
Learn about the Edge Program for Public Health: Meet the MPH Program Director
- Jan 28, 2026
- 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm
- Main College Building A-270 or virtual