Graduate Certificate in Maritime History

The Graduate Certificate in Maritime History is a specialized track for students who are looking to deepen their expertise in maritime history and naval warfare. During the academic year, students will develop and produce a professional, publishable quality paper on maritime history. Paper topics and research will draw from unique resources of the Naval Historical Collections under scholarly supervision of the Hattendorf Historical Center (HHC) and affiliated historians at the U.S. Naval War College (NWC).
USS Constitution is tugged through Boston Harbor to Fort Independence on Castle Island during ‘Old Ironsides' underway commemorating Independence Day.

General Information

Eligibility

This graduate certificate program gives enrollment priority to resident students. International students who have been selected for the International Master of Arts Program are eligible.

Location & Duration

This 10-month specialized elective track is completed in conjunction with the College of Naval Warfare curriculum. Students are taught at NWC in Newport, Rhode Island.

Learning Format

Courses are conducted in seminar format. Students also complete a faculty-mentored professional paper during the academic year.

Outcome

Students in this specialized program are awarded a certificate, along with four additional graduate credits. Also completed is a professional paper that may be submitted for publication and for the Chief of Naval Operations Naval History Essay Contest. This work may also serve as the basis for applications to complete additional graduate studies with other academic institutions affiliated with the HHC.

Program Structure

Ongoing

Professional Paper or Article

Required | Core Course
A professionally-written paper or article of publishable quality based on archival research on a selected topic of maritime history. Students will work in consultation with an HHC faculty supervisor.

Student Selected Electives

Course Selection

Required | Elective
Students are required to enroll in the “War at Sea in the Age of Sail” course.

Elective in Maritime History Concentration

Required | Elective
Students must enroll in two electives pertaining to a maritime history concentration.

Incoming Students

Contact Information

Graduate Certificate in Maritime History

More Information

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An elective in Maritime History Concentration broadens your understanding of war and maritime history and offers the opportunity to conduct advanced research that contributes to our enhanced maritime understanding.

Sailors from USS Constitution march as color guard during the National Memorial Day Parade in Washington D.C. The National Memorial Day Parade shares the story of American honor and sacrifice from across the generations.
Sailors from USS Constitution march as color guard during the National Memorial Day Parade in Washington D.C. The National Memorial Day Parade shares the story of American honor and sacrifice from across the generations. The parade draws thousands of spectators to the National Mall to pay tribute to those who have served, are serving, and most importantly those who have made the ultimate sacrifice while in service to our country. USS Constitution, the world’s oldest commissioned warship afloat, played a crucial role in the Barbary Wars and the War of 1812, actively defending sea lanes from 1797 to 1855. Designated America’s Ship of State, Constitution and its crew engage in community outreach and education about the ship's history and the importance of naval power to more than 500,000 visitors each year. (U.S. Navy Photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Elliott Fabrizio/Released)
Ships steering wheel at the U.S. Naval War College.