Master of Arts |  | Attain In-depth Knowledge of Western Europe |
The Master of Arts in West European Studies is a highly individualized degree. Students entering the program have the flexibility to tailor their course of study to their individual interests. WEST MA graduates are well prepared to pursue a variety of career paths in governmental, non-profit, and private sector work. For many other students, the MA degree represents a step toward doctoral studies.
Our degree requirements are highly flexible while providing student with a multidisciplinary understanding of Europe and its role in the world.
Course Requirements (New for Fall 2012)
Category I: Core Courses (12 credit hours, minimum)
- Research Seminar in West European Studies (3cr)
- One approved graduate course in European Studies from the following disciplines:
- History (3-4 cr)
- Political Science or European Union Studies (3cr)
- Europe in the World (3cr)
Category II: Elective Courses (15 credit hours, minimum)
- Literature/Culture course tied to the student’s language of study
- Graduate elective course in the humanities
- Graduate elective course in the social sciences
- 5-6 credit hours in approved graduate elective coursework
Category III: MA Thesis (3 credit hours, required)
- Students will work with a faculty committee to prepare a 50-75 page research paper
Category IV: Language Requirement
- Proficiency of at least intermediate-mid to intermediate-high in one approved West European language appropriate to the student’s program of study
The Master's Thesis
After the second semester of coursework, students should establish a thesis committee of 3 faculty members appropriate to the student's interests, who will oversee the Master's thesis. West European Studies adheres to thesis format and printing requirements set by the University Graduate School. Master's theses should be no more than 100 pages long, typically ranging from 50 to 75 pages in length. The WEST Graduate Student Guide includes a helpful reference on specific questions regarding the thesis. A list of WEST MA Thesis topics are available here.
Thesis Forms & Resources
Nomination of Committee for the MA Thesis Form
Graduate School thesis formatting guidelines
WEST Graduate Student Guide - includes several pages on thesis requirements
Time Requirements
In principle, a full-time student can complete the Master's degree requirements in 1.5 years. It is possible to complete the degree in 12 months, if the student does not need to take additional coursework to establish intermediate mid/intermediate high proficiency in one West European language. Part-time students may take longer. University policy requires that all Master's degree requirements be completed within five consecutive years of matriculation.
Resources/Guides
WEST Graduate Student Guide
Graduate Bulletin
Orientation Powerpoint
Forms
MA Advising Form
Nomination of Committee for the MA Thesis Form
Language Proficiency Requirement Form
Independent Readings Approval Form
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