Joint Master of Arts in History and Juris Doctor
Wayne State's Master of Arts in History and Juris Doctor (MA/JD) provides interdisciplinary training in history and law for students interested in legal academia or law-related career paths, such as public policy or government work.
Students who have completed their first year at the Wayne State Law School may apply for admission to the joint degree. The history department now offers courses both at our campus in the heart of Detroit's cultural center and online, making earning your master's degree more accessible than ever.
Completing the 30-credit master's program requires only one additional semester of study beyond the time required for the JD. Students in the program take seminars in legal history and history electives suitable to their interests and write a master's essay on a topic related to legal history. The joint MA/JD program leads to a simultaneous receipt of an M.A. from the Department of History and a JD from the Law School.
Career insights
A degree in history and law can lead to a variety of career paths. Here are just a few of the many opportunities available in this field.
| Career | Median salary |
|---|---|
| Anthropologists and archeologists | $68,000 |
| Archivist | $54,000 |
| Curators | $70,000 |
| Historian | $62,000 |
| History teachers, postsecondary | $90,000 |
| Middle school teachers, except special and career/technical education | $67,000 |
| Museum technicians and conservators | $39,000 |
| Political scientist | $82,000 |
| Secondary school teachers, except special and career/technical education | $69,000 |
This data provides a broad overview of how major selection can lead to careers and is provided without any implied promise of employment. Some careers will require further education, skills or competencies. Actual salaries may vary significantly between similar employers and could change by graduation, as could employment opportunities and job titles.
Contact 💬
Karen Marrero, history graduate director
karen.marrero@wayne.edu