Math/Physics and History and my stance?

[lonelyocean]

I'm in my third year of studying and i've been thinking a lot about my future recently.

At my school (a small engineering college in Korea),everybody plans to do engineering and business so I had no one around me to ask this about.

Though currently majoring in Mathematics and Physics, I am really attracted to the field of History, especially Medieval.

Is it possible for a guy like me who study Math and Physics to study History in grad school?

[Minnesotan]

If you have done some undergraduate coursework in history, and you have begun language work, then it should not be as big of a problem as you think. However, having no background in history, and several language deficiencies could really hurt your chances. A second BA might be your best option, in that case.

[bleistift]

It is possible, but you'd be at a significant disadvantage if you're planning on applying directly for a Ph.D. unless you have significant preparation in your undergraduate coursework and letters of recommendation from faculty in your history department.

I'd suggest you apply for an MA program first, as they take a lot more non-history undergraduates than a PhD program would. I'm going to respectfully differ with Minnesotan and say don't bother with another BA, it's a waste of time. The MA will cost the same and will be far more valuable down the road.

If you still have time left in your undergraduate schedule and can afford to take history classes, absolutely do so. Try to get into small seminars where you can get to know the professor really well, go to office hours a lot, and express your interest in pursuing history in graduate school. They'll guide you further. You also want to prepare your languages, so take whatever Medieval languages you'd need to do primary research.

[historygirl]

If you're interested in medieval, start working on languages now. You have to have French, German, and Latin, and you need to show some mastery of all three before you will be accepted to a good program. And I agree - an MA in history is likely the way to go after your BA.