History is a field dedicated to researching, interpreting and debating the nature of historical events, as well as using the past to predict future outcomes. History professionals (known commonly as historians) use a wide range of historical documents to help inform their research, such as news articles, legal briefs, political charters, personal correspondence and maps. Many historians specialize in niche areas of history, such as specific countries/regions or time periods. Professional historians often lend their expertise to museums, archive centers and research labs, as well as national parks, monuments, heritage sites and other places of historical interest. Many historians go on to teach the subject in secondary and postsecondary schools, as well.
At the academic level, history is classified as a field that transcends the humanities and social sciences. History is a very popular area of study at the undergraduate level; the subject placed tenth in a recent USA Today poll of the nation’s most popular college majors. Bachelor’s programs in history typically include courses that delve into an array of notable civilizations, people and events. The curriculum also covers topics relevant to the historian profession like research methodology, data analysis and grant-writing. Many of today’s students are choosing to earn their bachelor’s in history degree online. The best online history degree programs follow the same rigorous curriculum as brick-and-mortar options, and the asynchronous (or self-paced) format of most web-based programs are ideal for students with part-time jobs, childcare duties and other important commitments.
Learn more about what you can do with an online bachelor’s degree in history and what kind of career opportunities you can look forward to with this comprehensive guide.
- HOW TO GET A HISTORY DEGREE ONLINE
Applicants to online history degree programs must usually meet minimum GPA requirements and submit standardized test scores. Other admission requirements vary by school. Read more here.
- WHAT SCHOOLS OFFER ONLINE HISTORY DEGREES?
Many online schools have begun offering online history degrees. The ranking list below includes some of the best accredited online history degree programs. Read more here.
- HOW MUCH DOES A HISTORY DEGREE COST ONLINE?
Most online history degrees include 120 credits of coursework and tuition rates between $200 and $500 per credit, or $24,000 to $60,000 in total tuition costs. Most students use financial aid to cover these costs. Read more here.
Choosing a Program
WILL AN ONLINE HISTORY DEGREE PROGRAM PROVIDE ME WITH THE SKILLS I NEED TO ADVANCE MY CAREER?
Some online history degree programs are geared toward students who plan to immediately enter the workforce after graduation, while others are designed for those on master’s or Ph.D. tracks. Many history majors choose to earn a specialization for their degree. Specializations may concern specific periods of history, such as ancient times, the Middle Ages or the 20th century. Other degree concentrations concern different approaches to history, and often incorporate elements of anthropology, sociology, political science and/or literature. Prospective history teachers may also pursue education specializations, as well.
WILL AN ONLINE HISTORY DEGREE PROGRAM WORK WITH MY SCHEDULE?
Online bachelor’s in history programs offer a flexible alternative to traditional, campus-based learning. Online history students can access course readings and video lectures, submit written assignments, take exams and communicate with their professors on their own schedule. Current e-learning software also enables them to study away from their home computer using a laptop, tablet, smartphone and other Wi-Fi-compatible devices. Some online history degree programs include required or optional internships, where students receive hands-on training from experienced professionals. For added convenience, online students can usually coordinate internship sites that are relatively close to their personal residence.
WHAT JOBS CAN I GET WITH MY BACHELOR’S DEGREE IN HISTORY?
As an academic field dedicated to thorough research, many historian jobs and history teaching roles are normally reserved for candidates with a graduate degree. However, students who graduate with a bachelor’s in history may be eligible for select positions at museums, tourist attractions, historical societies and other establishments linked to their area of study. Common roles for employees with a bachelor’s in history include tour guides, archivists and curators, as well as public service positions like interpretive rangers at national parks and monument sites.
WHAT ARE THE BEST ONLINE HISTORY DEGREE PROGRAMS?
Choosing a program is an incredibly personal decision, and only you can properly evaluate whether a target school’s strengths match your educational needs. The following ranked list of schools should serve as a helpful starting point in your search for the best online bachelor’s degree in history programs in the United States. If you are considering an online bachelor’s in history, be sure to contact admissions specialists at different colleges and universities to learn more their about specific bachelor’s degree requirements and offerings.
Accredited Online History Degree Programs
See Methodology| Rank | School Name | Ranking Score | Relative Cost | Graduation Rate | Location | Description | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Central Florida | RANKING SCORE 76.40 | COST | GRADUATION RATE 69% | LOCATION Orlando, FL |
Located in Orlando, the University of Central Florida is a nationally-respected university, and has earned recognition from U.S. News & World Report for both its innovative educational practices and the quality of its online bachelor's programs. The school has been a leader in education technology for more than 20 years, and the online history degree at UCF ranks as a top program in the country. Students gain a broad understanding of history and its role in modern society while simultaneously developing their reading, writing, and analytical skills. They also benefit from UCF's comprehensive range of services available to online students, such as advising, financial assistance, student accessibility services, online tutoring from the university's student writing center, and online access to UCF's library and library database offerings. UCF offers a history degree online through a program that requires students to complete 36 credit hours of major courses. Distance learners ease into their studies with introductory courses that acquaint them with the essentials of societal development from 1492 to the present. Required western civilization and world history courses introduce students to the major and its academic expectations, while advanced courses and electives focus on the specific histories of particular geographic regions, such as Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, the United States, and Canada. A total of 21 hours of such electives are a required part of the curriculum. This rigorous degree program also requires students to complete a capstone history portfolio, which must contain eight to 12 pages of graded papers from UCF history courses taken during a student's final semester. All coursework can be completed asynchronously, and lectures are recorded and posted on course pages for convenient, flexible access. Some professors require students to log on to course pages to take scheduled online tests. Additionally, all classes include a course calendar with due dates for assignments and other required work. Discussion forums and online group work are common components of the online history classes at UCF, and students are expected to regularly engage with their peers. Online history students are also encouraged to interact with their professors over email. Program Overview Delivery Program Requirements Program Length Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 2 | Thomas Edison State University | RANKING SCORE 73.43 | COST | GRADUATION RATE 45% | LOCATION Trenton, NJ |
Thomas Edison State University in Trenton, New Jersey offers a variety of online degree programs for learners who are 21 years of age or older. The school's bachelor of arts in history program teaches students how to interpret significant historical events and figures, viewing the scope of history through a liberal arts lens. Students learn how to interpret primary and secondary sources, study the political and cultural development of a non-Western region, and develop an understanding of how different regions influenced one another over the course of history. The school's online degree in history requires a total of 120 credit hours. Students take all courses online, through a variety of synchronous and asynchronous learning formats including traditional online courses, e-Pack courses, guided study, and self-directed courses. The school allows students to take final exams on material with which they are already familiar, thereby earning credits without having to take the course itself. Half of the BA's credit load involves general education courses. These courses focus on intellectual and practical skills; civic and global learning; knowledge of human cultures; and understanding the physical and natural world. History students then choose to focus on either American history, Western civilizations, or world history. Students select a minimum of 12 credits of elective history classes. Elective courses include African-American history, the Renaissance, classical Greece and Rome, and the Cold War. Those interested in focusing on American history can explore courses in American Labor, American Urban History, and American Social History. Students round out their coursework with a three-credit liberal arts capstone. Admission to TESU does not require standardized test scores or a minimum GPA, but students must possess either a GED or high school diploma. Students can pay for the program on a per-credit-hour or annual basis. Thomas Edison State University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 3 | The Baptist College of Florida | RANKING SCORE 72.33 | COST | GRADUATION RATE 53% | LOCATION Graceville, FL |
Founded in 1943 to offer seminary and missionary training to students without a four-year degree, The Baptist College of Florida has since grown into a center of Christian education. The school operates a main campus located about 90 miles northwest of Tallahassee in the town of Graceville. In addition to offering all of its degree programs online, BCF also maintains three off-campus instructional sites in Jacksonville, Orlando, and Panama City, allowing distance learners to receive a more accessible classroom experience if they desire. Students earning a history degree online at BCF gain an overview of major historical topics relating to all areas of the globe, with an emphasis on how these topics pertain to Christian values. Most online classes at BCF are offered in an asynchronous format, which allows students to complete their assignments and view lectures any time of the week and anywhere with internet access. Coursework typically includes video lectures, reading assignments, forum discussion boards, and online assessments. Some of the perks of being an online student at BCF include online advising services, IT support, and free access to Microsoft Office 365. One of the best online history degrees for students interested in the intersection of theology and history, students enrolled in this program are exposed to courses in Baptist history, biblical interpretation of history, and historical theology. Specific required course highlights include courses on the U.S. Government, world religions, history of the Middle East, and history of Southern Baptists. Additionally, students are required to take 17 hours of general electives, which they can choose based on their academic interests. Graduates are prepared for further study in graduate school, historical research positions, and certification to teach social studies in Florida public schools. Program Overview Delivery Program Requirements Program Length Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 4 | University of Illinois at Springfield | RANKING SCORE 69.77 | COST | GRADUATION RATE 50% | LOCATION Springfield, IL |
One of three campuses in the University of Illinois system, the University of Illinois Springfield serves approximately 5,000 students annually, with about 1,500 students enrolled in online programs. Based in Springfield, the school has been ranked as a top public regional university by U.S. News & World Report for nearly a decade. The school's online history bachelor's degree program is rooted in a humanities curriculum that helps students develop skills in research, analytical methods, and communication through the exploration of factors that shape the human past and present. From general courses to studies in specific aspects of history, students gain an understanding of change and continuity in a global society. Online students at UIS also have the opportunity to perform independent work and research through internships, study abroad programs, and the school's history honors course of study. Admission to UIS's online history degree program is selective. Applicants must have already completed 30 credit hours in lower-division general studies courses in order to be admitted. Additionally, they must have at least a 2.5 GPA and live within 50 miles of UIS's Springfield campus. The selective nature of this program allows faculty to keep class sizes small and for every class to be taught by a PhD-holding professor on a tenure-track. Scholarships are available. Online students also benefit from access to UIS's advising, career counseling, and financial assistance services. Once accepted, online students take asynchronous courses that are identical in subject matter to the courses residential history majors take. Students may flexibly access class lectures and post to discussion boards on their own time throughout the semester. A few highlights of the degree program's challenging curriculum are U.S. history from the colonial period to present, women's history, imperialism, regional U.S. history, and special topics in Asian and European history. Program Overview Delivery Program Requirements Program Length Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 5 | Liberty University | RANKING SCORE 66.80 | COST | GRADUATION RATE 51% | LOCATION Lynchburg, VA |
The largest Christian university in the world, Liberty University serves more than 15,000 students on its 6,000-acre campus in Lynchburg, Virginia, and another 94,000 distance learners online. Students in Liberty's history program take fundamental courses in European history and Western civilization, along with classes emphasizing Christian thought and additional skills, such as communication, composition, and critical thinking. Liberty stresses prior learning and experience, often allowing students to earn academic credit for military or professional training and life experience. Liberty's history bachelor's degree online program is an ideal choice for students with transfer credits as well as first-time college students. Online students are required to complete at least 30 hours of their degree and 21 hours of major coursework at Liberty, but the rest of their 120 hours of course credit can be fulfilled through transfer credits and other credits available for former military personnel and working professionals. All courses offered at Liberty University are asynchronous and provide students with 24/7 access to lectures and course materials. Course highlights of this program include a survey of the Old and New Testament, an advanced survey of American history, historical methodology, and a senior capstone seminar that prepares students for in-depth scholarship and writing in the field of history. In addition to the Liberty's rich course selection, students benefit from digital access to the school's campus library, IT support, online writing tutoring, and online advising services from campus pastors. Students who are new to online learning also have the opportunity to enroll in prep courses that provide them with the tools they need to succeed as self-motivated distance learners. Program Overview Delivery Program Requirements Program Length Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 6 | Arizona State University - Tempe | RANKING SCORE 61.63 | COST | GRADUATION RATE 67% | LOCATION Tempe, AZ |
Based in Tempe, Arizona State University was ranked one of the top 100 most prestigious universities in the world by the Times Higher Education World Reputation Rankings. The school's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences boasts a Pulitzer prize winner and a MacArthur Fellow. Many graduates of the college have gone on to earn prestigious scholarships. ASU is also known as a military-friendly school; in 2017, Military Times ranked the school among the 2017 Best for Vets Colleges. The school's online bachelor of arts in history explores the social, cultural, political, and economic events that have shaped the world. Students in the online history degree program learn how to leverage digital media to research, analyze, and present their findings in a compelling way. Based in the humanities, the program emphasizes critical thinking, writing skills, and the analysis of historical documents and texts. Students learn how to create narratives from primary sources like land deeds and diaries. ASU's history degree requires 39 classes totaling 120 credit hours. Classes are seven and a half weeks long, with program start dates every seven and a half weeks. Major courses include studies in Asian history and U.S. history, history in the wild, and an upper division comparative history course. Additional courses include the historian's craft and studies in European history. Students may also earn three credits through an internship. Applicants must possess a 3.0 GPA, submit qualifying SAT or ACT scores, or have graduated in the top quarter of their high school class. The qualification for standardized test scores is higher for non-Arizona residents than those living in-state. Students with fewer than 24 transfer credits apply as a freshman. Arizona State University-Tempe is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 7 | University of Nebraska at Kearney | RANKING SCORE 59.07 | COST | GRADUATION RATE 57% | LOCATION Kearney, NE |
One of four schools in the University of Nebraska system, the University of Nebraska at Kearney's online program boasts some of the lowest tuition rates in the country. UNK also provides small class sizes and personalized attention. The school's online bachelor of arts in history encourages students to find the connections between historical events and modern society. The program emphasizes multiculturalism and tolerance. To help students adapt to online learning, the school provides an orientation, video tutorials, discounted software, and a 24/7 help desk. Students use discussion forums and chat groups on Blackboard to communicate with their peers and instructors. Some courses also involve DVDs, CDs, or instructional online videos. Professors may require that students take exams or finals at a proctored test site. BA students typically earn their degree in four years. The degree requires 45 credits of general studies courses, six credits of a foreign language, and 36 credits of major coursework. Required courses in the major include American history and Western civilization. Students have the option to take either non-Western world history or introduction to Latin America. Students then take 24 credits of advanced history electives spread across the following areas: U.S. history, European history, and non-Western history. Elective coursework covers a range of subjects including the American West, 1850-present; saints and sinners in European history; comparative studies in ethnic conflict; women in America; and the history of sea power. Juniors and seniors must also take a capstone course, which the school encourages students to select outside of their own subject area. Applicants who did not graduate in the top 50% of their class must submit a composite ACT score of 20 or a composite SAT score of 950. University of Nebraska at Kearney is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 8 | National University | RANKING SCORE 59.07 | COST | GRADUATION RATE 38% | LOCATION La Jolla, CA |
One of the largest private, nonprofit colleges in the country, National University serves more than 23,000 students from diverse backgrounds, and the school is also one of the top producers of Hispanic and African American graduates in the state of California. With an educational model geared toward adult learners, NU offers a range of distance education options, including more than 70 degree programs available completely online, one of which is the school's online history bachelor's degree. The history program at NU emphasizes the development of reading, writing, and research skills, along with more specific abilities of historical discernment, explanation, and synthesis. Students who have nearly graduated can enroll in the school's BA/MA transition program, which allows students to begin taking certain courses for master's degree credit while they're still undergraduates. NU's BA/MA transition program makes it the best online history degree option for many students who are interested in pursuing a graduate degree in history and who are interested in finishing at an accelerated pace. For students who simply want their undergraduate degree in history, NU provides a challenging and engaging curriculum that includes courses like the ancient world, the classical world, U.S. history Since World War I, historical theories & methods, and a capstone research project. The capstone research project, typically taken during a student's last semester, requires students to complete an extensively researched paper on a relevant history topic. Online students at NU can access course materials at any time. The online learning portal at NU offers interactive tools and resources, such as discussion forums, video lectures, digital presentations, and online evaluations to help deliver a collaborative learning experience to students and keep them connected to their professors, even though they aren't learning in a traditional classroom. Program Overview Delivery Program Requirements Prerequisites: N/ACredit requirements: 180 quarter units Field education requirements: N/A Program Length Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 9 | University of Arizona | RANKING SCORE 58.72 | COST | GRADUATION RATE 60% | LOCATION Tucson, AZ |
Located in Tucson, the University of Arizona offers a variety of degrees through its web-based school, UA Online. The school's bachelor of arts in history explores all aspects of history from the family unit to the global geopolitical stage. The program provides students with an understanding of the discipline as it relates to the arts, sciences, and humanities. Students earning their online history degree participate in class sessions three to five times a week. Whenever possible, the school incorporates hands-on projects into its curriculum. Some courses allow students to advance through the material at their own pace while still participating in class discussions. Students earning their history degree online communicate with their peers and faculty members through the school's course management system. The history major requires 33 credits of coursework comprising 18 upper-level courses and 15 elective courses. Students must take at least one class from four of the five major areas: Africa, Asia, and the Middle East; Europe; Latin America; the U.S.; and thematic courses. Sample courses include modern East Asia, Mexico since its independence, and the Middle East and North African since the Arab Spring. The program also features a chronological requirement that demands students take at least one course focusing on the time period before 1500. Such courses include history of Muslim societies 600-1500; games and play in medieval and early modern Europe; and Cleopatra: power, passion, and propaganda. In their final year, students complete a rigorous capstone course in which they conduct their own historical research. Student researchers rely on primary sources and engage with relevant scholarship in the field. The project culminates in a 20-page research paper. Applicants with fewer than 12 transfer credits must possess a 3.0 GPA or higher. Students with more than 12 transfer credits must possess at least a 2.0 GPA. To support returning veterans who are transitioning back into civilian life, the school offers an online professional resilience colloquium at no charge. UA is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 10 | Northwestern State University of Louisiana | RANKING SCORE 58.55 | COST | GRADUATION RATE 35% | LOCATION Natchitoches, LA |
Located in the town of Natchitoches, Northwestern State University of Louisiana offers over 40 affordable, military-friendly online programs. The school's online BA in history offers a combination of online and face-to-face courses that teach students how to interpret history and apply lessons to today's modern, multicultural society. While the program offers courses on non-Western history, the primary focus is on European and U.S. history. The school's BA in history requires 120 credits of coursework, including six credits of required foreign language courses and 40 credits of history courses. Required major coursework includes early and modern world civilizations and the history of the U.S. before and after the Civil War. The school also requires 24 hours of advanced history coursework, half of which must focus on U.S. history and half of which must focus on non-American history. Example courses include the history of modern Japan, biblical history, and women in the modern world. The school also offers unique courses in Louisiana and Creole history. Juniors and seniors may take a special topics course such as film as history or nuclear weapons in world affairs. Distance students participate in online lectures, discussions, and class meetings through WebEx. Some final exams and tests may require a proctor. Out-of-state students earning their online degree in history pay the same tuition rate as in-state students. After students earn 12 credits, the school dramatically reduces the cost of tuition per credit hour. Applicants must possess either a 2.35 GPA or qualifying ACT or SAT test scores. Transfer students must have earned at least a 2.0 GPA in 18 credit hours of college courses. NSU is regionally accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 11 | University of Massachusetts - Lowell | RANKING SCORE 58.20 | COST | GRADUATION RATE 56% | LOCATION Lowell, MA |
The University of Massachusetts Lowell has offered online and continuing education courses for over 15 years. Today, the school boasts one of the largest nonprofit online education programs in New England. In 2018, U.S. News & World Report ranked the school as having one of the country's best online bachelor's programs. The bachelor of liberal arts program offers a range of topics for students interested in exploring more than one subject area. Students seeking a BA in liberal arts with a concentration in history must also choose a dual concentration in English, art history, economics, legal studies, political science, psychology, gender studies, or philosophy. Students must take at least six history courses as well as six courses in their second area of concentration in order to earn their degree. Of the six required courses, students must take at least three courses at the 3000 and 4000 level. Courses cover broad topics such as Western civilization and more specialized topics such as European economic and social history, the Holocaust, and Stalin's Russia. Additional course offerings include Nazi Germany, African-American history, and Colonial North America 1550-1750. Students can participate in live chat hours with their instructors in real time. The online school also offers 24/7 technical support. The school accepts applications on a rolling basis. Applicants must possess either a high school diploma or have earned a passing grade on the GED or HiSET. Students interested in the online BA program can attend a virtual open house where they can ask questions and talk with online faculty members. Out-of-state students pay the same tuition rate as in-state students. UMass Lowell is regionally accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. Program Overview Delivery Contact |
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| 12 | University of North Dakota | RANKING SCORE 58.20 | COST | GRADUATION RATE 55% | LOCATION Grand Forks, ND |
Based in Grand Forks, the University of North Dakota offers a BA in social sciences that allows students to explore multiple areas of focus. Students earning the BA in social sciences with a focus on history must also take courses in two of the following subject areas: economics, political science, sociology, anthropology, or geography. The structure of the degree is different from other online history degree programs in that it allows students to achieve an advanced level of knowledge in one subject area and an introductory knowledge of two others. The 125 credit hour program requires 60 credits between the three major concentration areas. The program is semester-based and available 100% online. Distance learners engage in online lectures and discussions using Blackboard. Online students must adhere to scheduled exams and class meeting times. Students who want more flexibility may also take asynchronous, independent study courses. These classes allow students to complete work at their own pace so long as they finish the class within a three to nine month period. History courses including Western civilization I and II, the American West, and the U.S. since 1877 are also available in the asynchronous format. To fulfill the special emphasis requirement, students must take courses in the following four areas: advanced communication, quantitative reasoning, global diversity, and U.S. diversity. The breadth of knowledge requirement asks that students take at least three courses in social science; fine arts and humanities; communication; and math, science, & technology. Some courses fulfill multiple requirements. Multiple start dates allow students to begin classes in the fall, spring, or summer. Students may begin independent study courses anytime. Applicants under 25 years of age must have a 2.75 GPA or higher and submit ACT or SAT scores. Out-of-state online students pay the same tuition cost as their in-state peers. UND is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 13 | University of Louisiana at Monroe | RANKING SCORE 57.67 | COST | GRADUATION RATE 43% | LOCATION Monroe, LA |
Part of the University of Louisiana system, the University of Louisiana at Monroe is located in the northeast region of the state and serves a student body of more than 8,000. ULM's online history bachelor's degree focuses on both U.S. and non-U.S. history, building students' skills in areas such as historical research and analysis. The program offers an eclectic course selection, with faculty who specialize in areas not commonly found among other online history degrees, including Egyptology, Voodoo, Polish history, and Native American studies. ULM focuses on preparing students for professional success, and 90% of history graduates find employment within 60 days of graduation. History majors from the college often pursue careers in fields such as business, public service, education, and a variety of related industries. In addition to unique elective subject matter like Egyptology and Polish history, ULM's required coursework for history majors covers the foundations of the subject and beyond. ULM's history curriculum prepares students for either graduate study in history or a range of professional careers. ULM also offers an online master's degree in history. ULM offers its online courses in both synchronous and asynchronous formats. Courses last four, eight, or 16 weeks. The school's course length duration and format variety makes it easier for busy students to schedule their classes based on factors like their work schedule throughout the year. Program Overview Delivery Program Requirements Program Length Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 14 | Oregon State University | RANKING SCORE 57.03 | COST | GRADUATION RATE 63% | LOCATION Corvallis, OR |
Located in the beautiful Pacific Northwest town of Corvallis, Oregon State University is a top-rated military-friendly institution. The school offers two different online history degrees: a bachelor of arts in history and a bachelor of science in history. Both the BA and BS focus on critical thinking and writing skills and how historical patterns relate to modern issues. Classes are available entirely online through the school’s Ecampus. Some exams and finals may require students to use an in-person proctored test site. Courses are asynchronous, meaning students watch lectures and complete coursework according to their own schedule. Distance learners engage with their instructors through email, discussion boards, and web conferencing platforms like Google Hangout and Skype. OSU operates on the quarter system with four eleven-week quarters in a year. Students take a total of 180 quarter credits to earn their online history degree, the equivalent of 120 credits in a semester-based system. The program's baccalaureate core consists of 48 quarter credits, including a three-credit writing intensive. The history major involves 15 quarter credits of survey courses, 12 quarter credits of historical literacy courses, and at least 12 quarter credits of electives. The program requires two capstone experiences: the historian's craft and a seminar. Elective courses explore historical themes such as armed conflict, genocide, and society; race, diaspora, and politics in the Atlantic world; Mediterranean and Middle Eastern history; the American West and environmental history; science and society; and gender and sexuality. OSU considers applications holistically. The admissions departments reviews the strength and demand of coursework (like IB or AP classes), the size of high school, standardized test scores, and GPA. Applicants also submit an insight resume to explain what makes them unique and list achievements both inside and outside of academia. The school offers four different start dates through the year. OSU is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 15 | Bellevue University | RANKING SCORE 55.35 | COST | GRADUATION RATE 13% | LOCATION Bellevue, NE |
In addition to its main campus in Nebraska, Bellevue University operates campuses locations around Nebraska, Idaho, Iowa, and Washington state. Several of these satellite campuses are located on air force bases. The school offers a range of online degrees, including a bachelor of science in history online. This online degree is a good fit for students interested in the history of Western civilization, particularly the history of the U.S. Students interested in teaching history at a middle or high school level can also pursue a history endorsement as part of their secondary education program. Students in Bellevue's online history degree program participate in online discussions, watch instructional videos, and receive one-on-one online tutoring. Students attend class on their own schedule. Distance learners use the Cyber-Active platform to submit assignments, conduct library research, and review peer work. Online students have access to 24/7 online tech support. The BS in history requires 127 credits total. The curriculum includes 30 credits in the history major, 36 general education credits, and 61 elective credits. The history major consists of ten required courses that primarily focus on Western history. Courses include Western civilizations I and II, the history of Nebraska, American history before and after 1877, America since 1945, and foundations of Eastern civilizations. In addition to major requirements, all Bellevue students must complete a series of three courses known as the Kirkpatrick Signature Series. The series explores the traditions and values of Western society while promoting active citizenship. According to the school, the classes “affirm the values of limited government, popular rule, entrepreneurial processes, and reflective inquiry." The three courses in the series are American vision and values; tradition and change; and freedom and responsibility. Bellevue University receives regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission. Program Overview Delivery Contact |
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| 16 | Southern New Hampshire University | RANKING SCORE 53.66 | COST | GRADUATION RATE 58% | LOCATION Manchester, NH |
Southern New Hampshire University's physical campus in Manchester serves just 3,000 students, but the school's primary focus is its online platform, which offers distance education to more than 60,000 students. One of the fastest growing schools in the country, SNHU provides an innovative education model and quality online programs. Students in this history degree online program examine the links between ancient and modern society, refining their skills of research, analysis, and communication in the process. SNHU's online program offers four distinct concentrations: American history, European history, Middle Eastern history, and military history. All four programs include core courses in world civilizations and history research practices, along with more specialized classes for each concentration. Core classes for all history majors in this program include United States History: 1607-1865, world civilizations: prehistory-1500, world civilizations: 1500-present, and a history research seminar. The history research seminar provides seniors with the opportunity to demonstrate their mastery of historical research and historical writing. Within the specific concentrations of SNHU's history degree program, students take a deep dive into topics like colonial New England, the history of modern Russia, the history of the Arab-Israeli conflict, and the Civil War. Graduates become specialists of their chosen concentrations. Notably, SNHU's military history degree online tract stands out as a unique option not commonly offered at other universities. Asynchronous classes and 24/7 online access to class materials make SNHU an attractive option for nontraditional learners with packed schedules. Distance learners also enjoy the school's comprehensive academic and career advising services and affordable tuition rates. The department also makes it easy for new students to transfer previously earned credits into SNHU. Program Overview Delivery Program Requirements Program Length Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 17 | Sam Houston State University | RANKING SCORE 53.31 | COST | GRADUATION RATE 51% | LOCATION Huntsville, TX |
Located in Huntsville, Texas, Sam Houston State University is ranked as a GI Jobs military friendly school. SHSU Online offers both a bachelor of arts in history and a bachelor of science in history. Students in the BA must also pursue a minor and coursework in a foreign language. The bachelor of arts also prepares students who wish to earn their history teaching certification. Courses are available either online or in a hybrid format for those living near Sam Houston's campus in Huntsville, Texas. History students who live in the Huntsville area can participate in an internship with the Sam Houston Memorial Museum, which is located near the school's main campus. Required courses for both online history degrees include two courses in U.S. history and two courses in world history. From there, students may select one or more courses in the areas of American history, European history, and world history. American history courses explore immigration ethnicity, American Indian history, and the history of American slavery. European history courses include modern European military history; the Bible and reform in Europe; and the British empire and commonwealth. World history courses cover topics such as Latin America; modern China and Japan; and Africa: past and present. Students earning the BA in history take an additional 15 credits of advanced history courses while those earning the BS in history take only nine. Bachelor of arts students also take 15 credits of electives and 18 credits of a minor. Those earning their BS have no minor requirements and only take six elective hours. Instead, BS students earn their required credits through science courses like biology and chemistry. Sam Houston State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 18 | University of North Alabama | RANKING SCORE 53.20 | COST | GRADUATION RATE 43% | LOCATION Florence, AL |
The oldest public four-year college in the state, the University of North Alabama serves the four-city area of Florence, Tuscumbia, Sheffield, and Muscle Shoals, and boasts an annual enrollment of approximately 7,000 students. The school ranks as a top-tier public university that offers a variety of online programs, including both a BA and BS in history. The school's online history degree program gives students a broad foundation of historical knowledge that emphasizes skills in reading, writing, research, and critical thinking. A minor or second major in another subject is required for the BA at UNA. Many students pursue their second degree in political science, geography, or economics. Required coursework for this online history bachelor degree program is the same for both the BA and BS tracts. Popular classes include world civilization, United States history, history and historical research, and world regional geography. Both BA and BS students are also required to complete a senior thesis research paper on a historical topic of their choice in order to graduate. UNA uses Quality Matters (QM), a quality assurance program that ensures the high caliber of the online instruction students receive. QM requires that faculty members peer-review each other's courses and motivate each other to improve online class delivery. Distance learners have access to academic advising services, IT support, and the school's online library catalog and databases. Program Overview Delivery Program Requirements Program Length Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 19 | University of Massachusetts - Dartmouth | RANKING SCORE 53.14 | COST | GRADUATION RATE 48% | LOCATION Dartmouth, MA |
Part of the prestigious University of Massachusetts system, UMass Dartmouth offers a variety of online programs, including a bachelor of arts in history. The school delivers the degree in a hybrid format, meaning that students take the majority of their courses online but complete a few on-campus requirements. The program is therefore most relevant to students living in or near Massachusetts who can travel to the Dartmouth campus when necessary. UMass Dartmouth's online history degree requires at least 27 credits within the major. Students take six credits of U.S. history, six credits of European history, and six credits in Latin American history, Asian history, Near East history, African history, or ancient history. Students also take six credits of elective courses and three seminar credits. Course topics include the history of Western civilization, American colonial history, and empires of Central Asia. Topics courses explore more specific historical subject areas such as women and power. Online students access their coursework through the myCourse learning management system. MyCourse allows students to receive assignments, turn in papers, contact their professors, and hold discussions with their peers. Discussion are asynchronous, which means students can access discussion threads at their own convenience. Online courses do sometimes involve live conferences, wikis (collaborative online learning spaces), and blogs. UMass Dartmouth provides technical support, academic advising, and etutoring for all of its online students. Applicants with fewer than 13 transfer credits must provide ACT or SAT scores, a high school transcript, and a 500 word personal essay. The school allows students to transfer up to 75 credits from a regionally accredited university. UMass Dartmouth is regionally accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 20 | Eastern New Mexico University | RANKING SCORE 53.08 | COST | GRADUATION RATE 35% | LOCATION Portales, NM |
Located in Portales, Eastern New Mexico University offers a variety of fully online degree programs that blend asynchronous and synchronous learning formats. Some courses allow distance learners to participate in class at the same time as on-campus students through livestreaming. One of ENMU’s innovative online programs is the bachelor of science in history. To accommodate different schedules and learning preferences, students earning their history degree online can select one of three learning options. Students can choose to watch on-demand courses through Mediasite, participate in real-time class sessions, or complete each course without video or recorded lecture components, using only Blackboard to communicate with their instructors and peers. Many of ENMU's online courses use Mediasite, a learning platform that provides students a user-friendly digital classroom experience. Using Mediasite, students can watch on-demand lectures from the convenience of their home. With the use of additional technologies like Skype, students can also participate in live class sessions where they can ask questions and contribute to discussions. In other courses, distance learners access course materials and submit assignments through Blackboard. Distance learners in all classes receive online library services and tech support as well as free resume help and career placement services. The online history degree requires 120 hours of coursework. After earning their associate of arts, history students at ENMU take courses in U.S. history, European history, and non-Western history. Specialized topic courses explore subjects like history in film and fiction, military studies, and diplomatic history. Required courses include a survey of the non-Western world, introduction to historical methods, and an upper division diversity/global course. History majors must complete 18 hours of upper division electives, a one-credit-hour senior portfolio, and a minor degree involving 18-24 credits of coursework. The BS in science does not require foreign language courses. Applications are free. Eastern New Mexico University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 21 | Nicholls State University | RANKING SCORE 52.50 | COST | GRADUATION RATE 47% | LOCATION Thibodaux, LA |
A comprehensive regional university, Nicholls State University is located at the center of the Mississippi River Delta in Thibodaux, Louisiana, about 50 miles west of New Orleans. The college is a pioneer in distance education, having offered online classes since 2000 and other forms of distance learning even earlier. In 2013, the school opened its Nicholls Online program, which offers completely online degrees available through convenient eight-week course blocks. Students earning their history degree online focus on modern American, European, and Asian history. The program helps students foster clear thinking, written communication, and research skills. Nicholls is proud to uphold the regional traditions of Louisiana, and the school's history program also reviews the local history and culture of the bayou. Many history majors at the school choose to minor in geography, as it enhances their overall understanding of world relations throughout history from the standpoint of how those relations are affected by divisions of continent, country, state, city, and province. Nicholls requires students to take eight upper-division history and social science electives of their choice. These electives give students the opportunity to specialize in certain areas of the field or to expose themselves to a broader range of history topics. The school also offers a significant number of courses in military history and allow students to earn credit through internship programs. Thanks to the eight-week course blocks at Nicholls State, online students can complete their degrees in three years if they take at least three courses per eight-week block. Students with approved transfer credits often finish their degrees in less than three years. Virtual advising, low-tuition costs, asynchronous courses, and access to library databases also make Nicholls State stand out from the crowd in terms of overall experience for online students. Program Overview Delivery Program Requirements Program Length Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 22 | University of Memphis | RANKING SCORE 50.52 | COST | GRADUATION RATE 42% | LOCATION Memphis, TN |
The flagship school of Tennessee's Board of Regents system, the University of Memphis first opened its doors in 1912, and the school now serves more than 20,000 students annually through its main campus. UM is a major center of public education in the state, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, community knowledge, innovation, diversity, and integrity. Students earning an online history degree from UM gain insight into varied historical perspectives, learn to perform scholarly research, read critically, and report their findings effectively. Online students can work with an academic adviser to design a degree program that best matches their area of interest, with concentrations available in European, United States, Latin American, Russian, and Middle Eastern history. With online classes taught by over 20 members of the university's history department faculty, there is no shortage of variety in terms of coursework subject matter for online history bachelor degree students at UofM. Beyond the many concentrations available, students can also take courses in women's studies, gender studies, family studies, the history of Asia, and the history of medieval Europe. Students have the option of taking both synchronous and asynchronous classes, and their degrees can be completed entirely online. UM approves a limited number of relevant transfer credits from previous institutions that students may have attended. All UM online students have access to learning support services, including communication tools to stay connected to classmates and instructors, IT support, 24/7 online tutoring, and a Smartstart learning readiness assessment to help incoming students adjust to online learning at the collegiate level. Program Overview Delivery Program Requirements Program Length Admission Requirements Contact | Tweet this Share this School Profile |
| 23 | University of Maryland - University College | RANKING SCORE 50.06 | COST | GRADUATION RATE 10% | LOCATION Adelphi, MD |
The University of Maryland University College is based in the small town of Adelphi, Maryland, but the school is actually one of the largest distance learning institutions in the entire country, serving more than 90,000 online students across the world. UMUC was one of the first schools to offer a fully online history degree, and its current online program is built on nearly 20 years of experience with distance learning. Students learn the practices of researching, interpreting, and presenting historical information, and learners gain foundational knowledge of important geographical regions and historical eras. The program also encourages students to understand the moral and ethical dimensions of history, and to recognize the multitude of perspectives that combine to create ideas of the subject. Students in the program choose from a U.S or world history focus, or take classes based on an emphasis of their choosing. One of the best online history degree options in terms of rigor, the course work at UMUC's program thoroughly prepares its graduates for either further study in graduate school or historical research positions. The curriculum at UMUC is based on feedback from employers and academic leaders in the field. Topics covered include the history of the United States to 1865, historical methods, and historical writing. Electives include U.S. women's history: 1870 to 2000, history of the contemporary middle east, and Europe's bloodiest century make this program an engaging option for students who want to delve deeply into historical events that have shaped our world. Career preparation services, financial aid guidance, and internship options for students in the Washington, D.C. area make this program a particularly appealing choice. Additionally, UMUC allows students to transfer up to 90 course credits from previous institutions. Program Overview Delivery Program Requirements Program Length Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 24 | Westfield State University | RANKING SCORE 50.64 | COST | GRADUATION RATE 66% | LOCATION Westfield, MA |
Founded in 1839, Westfield State University is a storied, progressive institution in Massachusetts. The school was the first coeducational university in the nation to admit students without consideration of race, economic status, or religious creed. Westfield State offers an online history degree completion program tailored for students who have completed an associate degree at a Massachusetts Community College, and want to complete their junior and senior years online. Students who are not transferring from a state community college may also be able to enroll in the program under certain circumstances. In this program, which can be completed part-time or full-time, students take courses on both specific geographical regions and the role of history in society. Specific required courses include modern world history, historical research and analysis, world history to 1600, a senior research seminar, and 18 hours of history electives, depending on the particular interests of individual students. In addition to the traditional history degree program, Westfield State also gives online students the opportunity to complete the Teacher Licensure Program in History, which qualifies them to teach social studies in Massachusetts public schools. Westfield State uses a state-of-the-art online learning portal, which allows students to easily access the course materials they need to complete their degrees. Many online history classes require the use of interactive tools to keep students actively engaged with their classmates and professors, such as discussion forums. All online history courses at Westfield State are taught by the history department's 10 core faculty members. Online students at Westfield State also benefit from access to library databases, advising services, IT support, and an online career training course to prepare them for their professional endeavors after graduation. Program Overview Delivery Program Requirements Program Length Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 25 | Columbia College | RANKING SCORE 49.77 | COST | GRADUATION RATE 31% | LOCATION Columbia, MO |
Beginning as a Christian women's college in 1851, Columbia College has grown into a nationally recognized institution with 36 campus locations across the country. Operating out of its main campus in Columbia, Missouri, the college also maintains a robust online platform that offers several degrees, including a bachelor's program in history. History students study the progression and change of people, places, and events over time, building a sense of cultural literacy and a deeper understanding of the human condition. The school's history program promotes values of personal enrichment and citizenship while simultaneously teaching students to become better readers, writers, speakers, and problem-solvers. Students who complete their online history degree at Columbia often pursue graduate education, law school, or careers in fields like education, politics, and public service. Columbia offers an array of interesting required history courses and history electives, including Western civilization to 1715, philosophy of revolution, world history 1500 to present, American history to 1877, and introduction to the historian's craft. Most courses at Columbia are taught by full-time faculty members at the university. Courses are offered asynchronously, which lets students complete their work at their convenience. Online students living near Chico can benefit from Columbia's Online Plus services, which allows them to meet with an on-site adviser for academic advice and support as needed. Program Overview Delivery Program Requirements Program Length Admission Requirements Contact |
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What Else Can I Expect From an Online History Degree Program?
Whether you’re interested in earning a medieval, ancient, or military history degree online, the best online history degree programs offer students flexibility. Depending on the school and concentration you choose, the details and scheduling options for your program will vary.
CONCENTRATIONS OFFERED FOR AN ONLINE BACHELOR’S IN HISTORY
| Concentration | Description | Careers This Concentration Prepares For |
|---|---|---|
| Military History | Examine the evolution of warfare through the ages. Courses cover the American Civil War and follow military history through World War II and beyond. In addition to learning about the tactical history of wars, you’ll also explore the political, social, and economic implications of war. | Military officer, war college professor |
| Medieval History | From the crusades to the spirited language of Chaucer, this concentration follows the history of medieval Europe. In addition to important historical events of the middle ages, you’ll also learn about significant artistic, cultural, and scientific developments, as well as the role Christianity played during this time period. | Historian, archaeologist |
| Art History | Explore the major periods and styles of art throughout the ages and how artists reacted to historical touchstones through their works. This concentration covers a broad survey of western art, from ancient to contemporary. | Artist, museum curator |
CURRICULUM FOR AN ONLINE BACHELOR’S IN HISTORY
As a classic liberal arts subject, history covers a wide range of topics. What you learn in your online history degree program will vary based on what school you choose to attend, though you can explore a sample curriculum below:
- Western Civilization: In this survey course, you’ll learn about major political, philosophical, and religious movements that reigned in the western world. This course is commonly split into two surveys, with the first covering ancient history through the Reformation or Elizabethan era, and the second course covering historical movements up to modern times.
- History of Gender: You’ll trace the history of what it means to be designated as women and men, and moments in history where the lines have been blurred, like women who have disguised themselves as men to fight in wars.
- Historical Research: In this course, you’ll learn about the methodologies that historians use to uncover and communicate discoveries about the past. This course often requires a large amount of research and writing, including evaluating primary and secondary historical sources, making historical arguments, and drafting scholarly papers.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET AN ONLINE BACHELOR’S IN HISTORY?
An online history bachelor’s degree takes about two years to complete. If you have not already earned an associate degree, it may take you longer to finish your history bachelor degree online. Other factors include whether you’re able to transfer credits, whether you can take courses during the summer semester, and whether your online history degree program requires an internship or research component.
Many of the best online history degree programs allow students to complete coursework at their own pace. Some programs may only offer online history degrees in a cohort model. This means that students start the program at the same time and work through the program together, meeting online at set times for classes. The cohort model fosters camaraderie among students, but it may affect the amount of time to earn the degree.
Accreditation for Online History Degree Programs
As you explore history bachelor degree online programs, be sure to take note of which schools are accredited and which are not. Accreditation indicates that a school can provide a high quality education because it meets certain set academic requirements. Typically, a school is either nationally accredited or regionally accredited. Regional accreditation is given to an institution that has met the standards of a regionally accredited association. National accreditation is usually reserved for institutions of higher learning that focus on a specific type of education, like distance learning or vocational training. Regardless of whether your school’s program is nationally or regionally accredited, the online history degree you earn will be valid in any state.
The standards that accredited schools must meet are established by accreditation associations and other governmental and nonprofit organizations, who work together to create and monitor requirements. One such organization is the Department of Education (DOE). The DOE approves accreditors deemed reliable by the Secretary of Education and can only provide financial aid to students who attend accredited institutions. Another organization related to accreditation is the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). The CHEA advocates for self-regulation among accredited institutions of higher learning to maintain high standards. Over 3,000 colleges and universities are members of the CHEA. To learn whether a school you’re interested in is accredited, you can check the list of accredited schools on the websites of the DOE and CHEA.
Employment Outlook for Bachelor's in History Graduates
Job Placement
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average unemployment rate for all bachelor’s degree-holders in the U.S. is 2.8%. By comparison, associate degree-holders face an average unemployment rate of 3.8%, while individuals who have attended some college courses but not earned a degree face a rate of 5.0%. This trend suggests that a bachelor’s degree can significantly improve the employment outlook for the average job candidate.
However, unemployment rates for history majors are relatively high. A 2014 survey by the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce (CEW) noted that new college graduates with a history degree face an unemployment rate of 8.4%, while history degree-holders with work experience face an unemployment rate of 5.4%. Both of these rates are greater than the 5.0% national average for all employees, regardless of their education attainment level.
That being noted, the employment outlook for history majors is favorable compared to the outlook for other degree-holders in similar fields. The following table compares unemployment rates for experienced and inexperienced history bachelor’s graduates against other graduates with degrees in the humanities and fine arts.
| Bachelor’s Degree Major | Unemployment Rate for Recent College Graduates |
Unemployment Rate for Experienced Degree-Holders |
|---|---|---|
| History | 8.4% | 5.4% |
| Foreign Language Studies | 7.1% | 5.4% |
| English Language and Literature | 8.8% | 6.3% |
| Liberal Arts | 8.7% | 5.4% |
| Philosophy and Religious Studies | 10.3% | 6.4% |
Source: ‘From Hard Times to Better Times‘ by the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce (CEW)
As the table shows, history majors with work experience face unemployment rates that are on par or more favorable with the rates for other humanities/liberal arts majors. Additionally, the survey found that unemployment rate for experienced history degree recipients is also lower than the rates for experienced graduates with degrees in area ethnic/civilization studies, linguistics/comparative language/literature and art history/criticism.
Earning a Living
In terms of annual salary, history bachelor’s recipients tend to outearn their associate-holding counterparts by a considerable margin. Using data from the 2015-16 PayScale College Salary Report, the table below weighs history bachelor’s and associate degree salaries at two key career benchmarks.
| Degree | Median Annual Salary for Entry-Level Employees (0-5 Years) |
Median Annual Salary for Mid-Career Employees (10+ Years) |
|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree in History | $28,600 | $47,800 |
| Bachelor’s Degree in History | $42,200 | $73,600 |
2015-16 PayScale College Salary Report
As the table indicates, individuals with a bachelor’s in history out earn those with an associate in history by 47.6% at the entry-level mark and 54.0% at the mid-career mark. However, salary expectations for history majors will also vary by specific job titles. The next table looks at career salary growth and expected earnings for four of the most common roles in the history profession.
| Occupation | Median Annual Salary for Entry-Level Employees (0-5 Years) | Median Annual Salary for Mid-Career Employees (5-10 Years) | Median Annual Salary for Experienced Employees (10-20 Years) | Median Annual Salary for Late-Career Employees (20+ Years) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Historian | $40,000 | $45,000 | $47,000 | $52,000 |
| Museum Curator | $39,000 | $49,000 | $53,0000 | $62,000 |
| Research Analyst | $50,388 | $60,483 | $71,436 | $75,399 |
| Writer/Author | $43,000 | $53,000 | $53,000 | $72,000 |
Source: PayScale
Career and Further Education Opportunities
Students who earn a bachelor’s degree in history will be qualified for dozens of different jobs, although individual eligibility may also depend on factors like city and state of employment. Four common career pathways for history bachelor’s degree recipients are outlined below.
Historians: In addition to academic research and data analysis, many historians present their findings at museums, conferences and public speaking engagements. Many also publish books, magazine articles and other reading materials.
Postsecondary Teachers: Postsecondary teachers, also known as ‘professors’, lead college courses in classrooms and online. Most accredited colleges and universities maintain large history departments, and professors often specialize in specific periods of history.
Anthropologists and Archaeologists: Anthropologists use historical evidence and contexts in order to study the behavior and interactions of human populations throughout history, up to the modern age. Archaeologists study artifacts and physical remains in order to learn about ancient civilizations and events.
Anthropologists and Archaeologists: Writers and authors are responsible for a wide range of reading materials, including books, magazine articles, academic journals, blog posts and scripts for television, films and theater. Many writers and authors work on a freelance basis, taking on individual projects for different clients.
| Occupation | Median Annual Salary | Projected Industry Growth (2014-24) |
|---|---|---|
| Historian | $55,800 | 2% (+100 jobs) |
| Postsecondary Teachers | $72,470 | 13% (+177,000 jobs) |
| Writers and Authors | $60,250 | 2% (+3,100 jobs) |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Professional Organizations
Making professional connections and learning about different approaches to history is crucial to your success. Professional organizations offer a great entry point for students who want to learn more about their chosen career path. Below you’ll find three of the country’s most prominent organizations established for history professionals. These organizations host networking events, provide online trainings, maintain active job boards, and offer other services for career-ready college graduates.
- American Historical Association: The AHA honors a mission of “Bringing together historians from all specializations and professions to discuss, disagree, and learn”. The organization’s website features an extensive publication library, links to professional development courses, job listings and grant opportunities.
- Organization of American Historians: Established in 1970, the OAH has grown to include more than 3,500 historians, teachers and academics specializing in various aspects of American history. The association publishes two online journals and holds a national conference at a different U.S. city each year.
- World History Association: Founded in 1982 by a small consortium of teachers and academic researchers, the WHA has come to represent members in 35 different countries worldwide. The association hosts an annual international conference, and also awards annual prizes to educators and students across the globe.
Financing Your Online History Degree Program
Despite the relative affordability of online programs, most students still need financial assistance. Students should complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form to learn more about loans, grants, and other opportunities offered through the U.S. government. Additionally, private grants and scholarships are widely available through nonprofit organizations, companies, and other sources. Check out our collection of resources below to learn more about financial aid options.
AN OVERVIEW OF FINANCIAL AID
Approximately two-thirds of today’s college students rely on loans to fund their education, but there are plenty of overlooked financing options you can use to reduce your overall student debt.
UNDERSTANDING THE FAFSA
Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a crucial first step for any student with financial needs. Our FAFSA guide features a step-by-step rundown on the process and answers to several frequently asked questions.
FINANCIAL AID FOR ONLINE COLLEGE STUDENTS
Financial aid for online learning is equivalent to what you’ll find for campus-based learning, but that hasn’t always been the case. Learn about the changes that have taken place, as well as the different funding opportunities available to online students.
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR WOMEN
Online programs can provide an affordable and flexible option for women trying to balance the demands of work, family, and earning their degree. We’ve curated a list of valuable scholarships specifically for women.
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR SINGLE PARENTS
Online college programs can be a flexible, affordable option for single parents who are interested in earning a degree and securing their family’s financial future. We’ve compiled a list of scholarships, grants, and other financial aid options geared toward single moms and dads.
FINANCIAL AID FOR VETERANS AND ACTIVE MILITARY
Millions of dollars in free money is available to U.S. military personnel, but much of it goes unused. Learn more about grants, scholarships, and other financial aid opportunities available to veterans, active-duty service members, and reservists.
Rankings Archive
- Best Online Bachelor's in History Degree Programs of 2017
Rank School Location 1 University of Central Florida Orlando, FL 2 University of Illinois at Springfield Springfield, IL 3 Liberty University Lynchburg, VA 4 The Baptist College of Florida Graceville, FL 5 University of Memphis Memphis, TN 6 Westfield State University Westfield, MA 7 Troy University Troy, AL 8 University of Maryland-University College Adelphi, MD 9 Arizona State University-Polytechnic Mesa, AZ 10 Southern New Hampshire University Manchester, NH 11 Nicholls State University Thibodaux, LA 12 National University La Jolla, CA 13 Southwestern Assemblies of God University Waxahachie, TX 14 University of Louisiana at Monroe Monroe, LA 15 SUNY Empire State College Saratoga Springs, NY 16 Columbia College Columbia, MO 17 Granite State College Concord, NH 18 Eastern Oregon University La Grande, OR 19 Sterling College Sterling, KS 20 Chaminade University of Honolulu Honolulu, HI 21 Ottawa University-Ottawa Ottawa, KS 22 University of North Alabama Florence, AL 23 Judson College Marion, AL 24 Southwestern Adventist University Keene, TX 25 University of Maine at Presque Isle Presque Isle, ME