Overview

The History and Literature programme at Columbia University provides an advanced interdisciplinary framework for students to examine the intersection of historical events and literary production. This curriculum encourages scholars to analyse how texts reflect and shape the social, political, and cultural contexts of their time.

By bridging two distinct yet complementary fields, the course fosters a deep understanding of human expression across different eras. Participants develop critical thinking skills and sophisticated research techniques necessary for high-level academic inquiry. The programme emphasises the importance of primary source analysis and theoretical versatility in modern scholarship.

Students benefit from a vibrant intellectual community that values diverse perspectives and rigorous debate.

Why History and Literature at Columbia University?

Studying at this institution provides access to world-class libraries and extensive archival collections that are essential for historical and literary research. The faculty consists of leading experts who provide mentorship in specialised areas of study, from early modern cultures to contemporary global movements.

The university's location offers a unique cultural backdrop, enhancing the learning experience through proximity to major museums, galleries, and historical landmarks. This environment encourages students to engage with history and literature beyond the classroom, participating in a broader academic and professional network.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 35314 per semester
National fee: USD 35314 per semester
Local fee: USD 35314 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Historical Methods
Literary Theory
Narrative and Archive
Cultural History
Comparative Literature
Research Seminar
Thesis Development

Careers with History and Literature

Graduates of this programme often pursue successful careers in academia, publishing, and cultural heritage management. The analytical and communication skills developed during the course are highly valued in sectors such as journalism, public policy, and international relations.

Many alumni continue their studies at the doctoral level or find roles as researchers, archivists, and editors. The ability to synthesise complex information and provide historical context makes these professionals assets to organisations focused on education, media, and the arts.

Programme Structure

History and Literature

Research Seminar
The Realistic Novel in Context
Narratives of World War II
The Archival Imagination
The Voice of the Witness
Writing from France: Black Expatriates in Paris
Minorities in France: Exiled histories, Contested Memories, Collective Protests

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-05-01 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

Prepare for Your English Test

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Manhattan, United States

Disciplines

History Literature View 534 other Masters in History in United States

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Academic requirements

GRE^®

Required

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Transcripts showing courses and grades from all post-secondary schools attended.
A CV
A personal statement
A statement of academic purpose
A writing sample in English (can be an excerpt, 10-15 pages).
A minimum of three reference letters are required. At least two must be from academic sources. Applicants who have not been enrolled in an academic program for some time may also submit additional letters from supervisors or colleagues in positions of responsibility.
TOEFL. Required for all international students whose native language is not English or whose undergraduate degree is from an institution in a country whose official language is not English. IELTS scores are also acceptable to fill this requirement.
Optional - GRE general exam.
$120 Application Fee submitted electronically through the application portal.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

70628 USD / year

≈ 70628 USD / year
Out-of-State

70628 USD / year

≈ 70628 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

70628 USD / year

≈ 70628 USD / year

Living costs

Manhattan

United States

2638 - 5751 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for History and Literature.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Manhattan

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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