Dr. Matthew Sommer

Professor

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Biography

Matthew Sommer is the Bowman Family Professor of History at Stanford University, where he also has a courtesy appointment in East Asian Languages and Cultures. His teaching and research interests include modern Chinese history and gender studies, focusing on how cultural and historical contexts shape gender roles and relations in China. Sommer has held various academic positions, including Assistant Professor and Associate Professor at the University of Pennsylvania and a visiting Associate Professor at Swarthmore College. He has received several fellowships and awards throughout his career, including the National Resource Fellowship and Chancellor's Fellowship. Sommer has been actively involved in academic committees and editorial boards, contributing significantly to the field of history through his research, teaching, and mentorship of graduate students. He has authored numerous publications and is a recognized figure in promoting the study of East Asian history.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

— Present

Stanford University • Stanford, CA

Teaching and conducting research in the Department of History with a focus on modern Chinese history and gender studies.

Associate Professor

— Present

Department of History, Stanford University • Stanford, CA

Engaged in scholarship and instruction related to history and East Asian languages.

Assistant Professor

— Present

Department of History, University of Pennsylvania • Philadelphia, PA

Taught courses and conducted research in historical studies.

Associate Professor

— Present

Department of History, University of Pennsylvania • Philadelphia, PA

Advanced teaching and research responsibilities within the department.

Visiting Associate Professor

— Present

Swarthmore College • Swarthmore, PA

Temporary position focusing on teaching and research in history.

Courses

CHINA 392B HISTORY 392B CHINA 495A HISTORY 495A HISTORY 293D HISTORY 393D CHINA 183 CHINA 93 FEMGEN 193 FEMGEN 93 HISTORY 193 HISTORY 93 HISTORY 299F HISTORY 399Y EASTASN 300 HISTORY 399W HISTORY 499X HISTORY 299S MLA 379 CHINA 393 CHINA 395 FEMGEN 395J HISTORY 395J OSP-KYOTO 25 MLA 374 OSP-GEN 10 CHINA 495B HISTORY 495B CHINA 393A HISTORY 393A CHINA 183 CHINA 383C

Requirements for Stanford University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:26
Reading
Required:26
Writing
Required:26
Speaking
Required:26
Total
Required:100
GRE General
Verbal
Required:160
Quantitative
Required:165
Analytical Writing
Required:4.5
Overall
Required:4.5
Prerequisites
Bachelor degree from an accredited institution Strong background in mathematics and programming
Application Checklist
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Official transcripts
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

The Computer Science department emphasizes research potential. GRE General is currently optional but recommended for some tracks.