The Department of History offers the Masters of Arts degree with an opportunity for concentration in three fields of history: World history United States history Local/regional/public history Admission Requirements All applicants must first satisfy the general application requirements of the Graduate School. Please see the information for prospective graduate students on the web page of the Graduate School, www.jmu.edu/grad. The Department of History requires applicants have a minimum overall undergraduate GPA of 3.0 from an accredited institution and satisfactory scores on the Graduate Record Examination General test (GRE). The graduate committee may require students who have majored in other fields to take prerequisite undergraduate courses in history. To Apply For information and instructions and to begin the application process, go to https://www.applyweb.com/apply/jmug/index.html. Required Materials The Department of History requires all prospective applicants to submit: GRE scores official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended a brief statement of purpose, 500 words in length, that identifies the applicant's academic or professional background, intended field of concentration, and long-range career aspirations. three letters of recommendation, at least two of which are from individuals familiar with the applicant's academic work and potential for graduate study.  a formal writing sample of approximately 10 to 20 pages that demonstrates the applicant's analytical abilities and writing skills. Applicants who have been out of school for some time should contact the Graduate Program Director for advice on identifying appropriate recommenders and on selecting a suitable writing sample. Applicants may submit additional materials that demonstrate their preparation and potential for graduate study. Application Deadlines Complete applications must be received by February 1.  Incomplete applications will not be considered; applicants are responsible for assuring that all materials have been received.  The Graduate Committee begins its review of all complete applications after February 1.  Applications received after February 1 will be reviewed in accordance with openings available in the program.  Students normally matriculate in the fall semester. Contact Information For further information, please contact: Dr. P. David Dillard Graduate Program Director History Department James Madison University 58 Bluestone Dr MSC 2001 Harrisonburg, VA  22807 (540)568-3757 dillarpd@jmu.edu