Applying

OHMA is the first program of its kind: a one-year interdisciplinary Master of Arts degree training students in oral history method and theory. Our graduates work in museums, historical societies, advocacy organizations, media, the arts, education, human rights, and development. OHMA is also excellent preparation for doctoral work in fields like anthropology, history, journalism, and American studies or professional degrees in law, education, or social work.

Jointly run by Columbia Oral History (COH), one of the preeminent oral history centers in the world, and Incite, a lively hub for interdisciplinary research in the humanities and social sciences, OHMA connects students with the intellectual resources of a major research university and with the intimate society of a small cohort of talented students.

OHMA invites applications from students who have or will have received a baccalaureate granted by a college or a university of recognized standing by the time of enrollment. Students currently enrolled in the undergraduate schools of Columbia University are also encouraged to explore our B.A./M.A. option.

Please visit our Frequently Asked Questions page to see answers to the most common admissions questions. For a description of courses and requirements, please visit our Degree Requirements page.

  • Priority deadline for Fall 2027 is March 1, 2027. We make most of our admissions and funding decisions after this deadline.

  • Final deadline for Fall admission is May 6, 2027.

  • There is no spring admission for this program.

Click here for more application instructions.

Application materials include:

  • Transcripts of all previous postsecondary education are required. Visit GSAS website for more information.

  • The statement of academic purpose (maximum 1000 words) should tell us why you want to study at OHMA and what kind of work you imagine yourself doing while here.

  • A wide diversity of experiences and perspectives in the graduate student body enhances Columbia’s academic life: Graduate students work closely with the faculty, constitute the classroom context for their peers, and make substantive contributions to the University's pedagogical and research enterprise.

    We ask that you provide a statement (maximum of 1,000 words) that explains how your personal experiences and history will allow you to contribute to the wealth of perspectives in the entering class of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences and in the Columbia community at large.

  • A CV/Resume highlighting your career is required.

  • We want to know that you are capable of writing something in an academic (or similar) format. It doesn't necessarily have to be related to the topic you intend on researching. We just want to see that you know how to write clearly. The sample should be 10-15 pages in length.

  • We do require 3 recommendations, and we are looking to hear from people who know you and your career goals/trajectory and who can speak specifically to how this program is the next logical step for you. Two must be submitted by academic recommenders, as is GSAS policy. Please visit GSAS website to learn more.

    Your third recommendation can come from a former teacher/professor or employer, it also can be from a co-worker or a personal reference.

  • GRE Scores are optional.

  • Read more about English Proficiency Requirements on the GSAS website.

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CLICK HERE TO APPLY TO OHMA

To learn more about the Oral History Master of Arts, contact Amy Starecheski (OHMA Director, aas39@columbia.edu)