PhD in Social History

The Social History Program at the University of São Paulo is one of the oldest and most highly regarded in Brazil. Postgraduate Studies in History at USP are intertwined with the creation of the University itself in the 1930s. Records confirm that, in 1939, the first thesis was defended. In 1971, the Program joined the national evaluation system organized by CAPES – the agency that assesses Graduate courses in the country. 

The Social History Program was a forerunner of canonical interpretations of Brazil and in fields such as everyday history, material culture, historical demography, history of science, among others. It is distinguished, simultaneously, by its tradition and by the incorporation of new historiographic trends. It is responsible for producing cutting-edge research and training high-level staff, whose performances stand out in universities in Brazil and abroad. It brings together highly qualified researchers, prepared to critically reflect on the country and the world, problematizing the past and intervening in the present, from the perspective of the historian. The masters and doctors trained by the Program also carry out activities in the areas of basic education, heritage, public policies and museology, among others.