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Preliminary Examinations

Preliminary examinations focus specifically on the student’s traditional history and interdisciplinary fields.  The exams consist of a four-hour written examination followed by an oral examination. The written exam is based on coursework and substantial reading lists, which are developed by both the student and the advisors of the history and interdisciplinary fields.  As part of the oral exam, the candidate must defend the residency proposal. The exams are intended to allow students to demonstrate mastery of scholarship and must be completed prior to beginning the professional residency.