Best Online Bachelor's in History Programs
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 History professionals (known commonly as historians) use a wide range of historical documents to help inform their research, such as news articles, legal briefs, political charters, personal correspondence and maps.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
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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?
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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?
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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
| Rank | School | Location | Cost | Graduation Rate | Description | Toggle |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
University of Central Florida |
Orlando, FL | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 70% |
The University of Central Florida enrolls more than 60,000 students on its campus in Orlando. The public university, founded in 1963, also enrolls students through UCF Online. UCF offers 20 online bachelor's programs, including an online bachelor's degree in history. Students in the 120-credit program complete general education requirements, history classes, and electives. Graduates pursue careers in law, public policy, and other fields. Online history majors strengthen their analytical and critical thinking skills while learning about the past. Students can choose a geographical focus, such as North America, Asia, Europe, or Africa, to specialize their degree. In addition to survey courses on western civilization, U.S. history, and Chinese history, UCF offers unique courses like U.S. space history, age of Atlantic revolutions, and the evolution of hip hop. Advanced undergraduates can earn their master's degree by joining UCF's accelerated program. Online students interested in public history can complete an internship to gain experience in the public history profession. Applicants need a minimum 2.0 GPA. UCF requires high school transcripts and SAT or ACT scores for students with fewer than 60 transfer credits. UCF Online provides instructions for transfer students based on the number of previously earned credits. The program also offers resources for online students, including a writing center, library, and technical support. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 2 |
Liberty University |
Lynchburg, VA | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 47% |
A private evangelical university located in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University enrolls nearly 100,000 students in its online programs, including a fullyonline history degree. The 120-credit degree takes less than four years to complete and prepares graduates for careers as history teachers, analysts, and policy advisers. Liberty prioritizes flexibility with its short class terms and asynchronous delivery format. History majors complete 39-42 credits in general education courses, including communication, math, natural science, and Christian life and thought. Students then take 42 credits of core history courses, including western civilization, American history, and historical methodology. Students can take upper-level electives in European history, U.S. history, and world history to customize the degree. All history majors complete a senior capstone seminar to complete the program. Liberty accepts applicants with a minimum 2.0 GPA for full admission. Prospective students who do not meet the minimum can apply for provisional admission. Applicants submit college transcripts, a high school self-certification form, and proof of English proficiency. The history program accepts up to 90 transfer credits for prior college coursework, work-related training, or military experience. History courses operate on eight-week terms, with multiple start dates throughout the year. Military students enjoy discounted tuition. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 3 |
Oregon State University |
Corvallis, OR | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 96% |
Established in Corvallis in 1868, Oregon State University belongs to the state's public university system. OSU offers on-campus and online degrees, including an online bachelor of arts or bachelor of science in history. The research-focused program emphasizes critical thinking, argumentation, and writing skills. The program comprises 180 quarter credits, including 49 major-specific quarter credits. The curriculum includes history survey classes, courses on global historical literacy, and history electives. Students complete two capstone courses. One capstone course teaches students about the historian's craft. The second capstone course includes a research seminar, requiring students to complete an original research project. OSU offers a variety of courses on topics like race, diaspora, and politics in the Atlantic world; armed conflict, genocide, and society; the American west and environmental history; and gender and sexuality. The program also offers a course on the history of science, medicine, and society. History majors can choose a minor, such as political science, business, or education, to complement their degree. First-time freshmen applicants submit high school transcripts and SAT or ACT scores. OSU prefers a cumulative 3.0 GPA or higher for admission. OSU accepts transfer credits toward the degree, but students must complete at least 45 of the final 75 credits at OSU. Once admitted, online history majors can qualify for OSU scholarships and awards. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 4 |
Harvard University |
Cambridge, MA | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 65% |
The oldest college in the United States, Harvard University dates back to 1636. Consistently ranked among the best colleges in the world, Harvard offers several online degrees for working professionals. The Harvard extension program offers an online bachelor of liberal arts with a focus in history. Students gain a well-rounded liberal arts education that strengthens verbal and written communication skills. The program appeals to adult learners with several years of professional experience. History majors complete 32 credits of history classes and additional general education requirements in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Harvard also requires expository writing classes, foreign language credits, and writing-intensive credits. The history curriculum includes topics like the Vietnam War, Russian culture, and Boston in the American Revolution. Students seeking a master's degree can enroll in the joint degree program. Master's students take 12 courses, including a master's thesis or capstone. Applicants register for three courses instead of submitting an application. Students take academic writing and critical reasoning plus two courses from the program. If they maintain a cumulative 3.0 GPA, students gain admission to the program. All applicants need a high school diploma or the equivalent and must be 21 years old or older. Admitted students complete at least 16 credits onsite at Harvard's Cambridge campus. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 5 |
Regent University |
Virginia Beach, VA | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 61% |
A private Christian institution founded by Pat Robertson, Regent University dates back to 1977. Regent enrolls over 8,000 students on its Virginia Beach campus. The university also offers online degrees, including an online bachelor's degree in history. The online history degree provides foundational knowledge in U.S. history, Western civilization, and world history. Graduates strengthen their critical thinking, research, and writing skills. The 120-credit degree offers eight-week courses. Students complete 49 credits of general education courses, including biblical worldview, mathematics, and natural science. History majors then take 27 credits of major requirements, including U.S. history, Western civilization, and history of the Cold War. Seniors complete the degree with a course on research methods and a senior seminar. During the senior seminar, history majors complete a major research project demonstrating their ability to analyze and synthesize primary and secondary sources. Students can also complete an internship or independent study in history. Regent accepts transfer students but requires students to complete at least 50% of the major requirements at Regent. Applicants need a high school diploma or GED and must submit unofficial transcripts. Regent also offers bachelor's degrees in politics and history, history and social science secondary education, and English with a history focus. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 6 |
Excelsior College |
Albany, NY | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 45% |
A private institution in Albany, New York, Excelsior College offers undergraduate degrees on campus and online. The 120-credit online bachelor's degree in history emphasizes critical thinking, written analysis, and diverse historical perspectives. Graduates work in education, research, and business. The degree also prepares students for graduate-level programs, like an online Ph.D. in history or a graduate degree in museum studies, law, library science, or education. Students take foundational courses in U.S. history or world history. The program incorporates distribution requirements in U.S. history, European history, and non-Western history to provide geographically balanced training. Compared to other history degree programs online, Excelsior offers unique courses, including classes on the history of witches and the history of pirates. History students take various electives and complete a history capstone course. They also complete 60 credits of general education arts and sciences requirements, including courses in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Applicants submit official transcripts. The program accepts transfer credits from regionally accredited institutions and offers a transcript review to determine eligible transfer credits. Excelsior offers several start dates throughout the year. Program Overview Delivery Contact |
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| 7 |
University of Illinois at Springfield |
Springfield, IL | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 50% |
A public university located in the state's capital, the University of Illinois at Springfield dates back to 1969. The newest school in the University of Illinois System, UIS enrolls over 5,000 students on campus, with additional students enrolled in online programs. UIS offers an online history degree that follows the same curriculum as the on-campus program. Online students must live more than 50 miles from campus unless they provide documentation of a disability. History students take two classes on historical regions and themes, like world history, comparative religion, European history, U.S. history, or Middle East history. Learners choose at least eight credits in non-U.S. classes, with options like Cleopatra's Egypt, world environmental thought, and the Pacific War. All students take a class on historical methods and a capstone senior seminar. In the capstone, students examine current issues in the study of history and complete a research paper. Students must complete at least 30 credits of college-level lower-division classes with a minimum 2.5 GPA before applying. The history program requires a statement of intent which should explain the applicant's ability to succeed in an online program and their reasons for pursuing a history degree. Admitted students work with an academic adviser and a faculty adviser to plan their studies and meet graduation requirements. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 8 |
Sam Houston State University |
Huntsville, TX | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 51% |
Located an hour outside of Houston in Huntsville, Texas, Sam Houston State University dates back to 1879. The institution offers diverse degrees to students on campus and online, including an online bachelor of arts in history. History students choose from focus areas like U.S. history, military history, African American history, and world history. The 120-credit online history degree includes general education classes, a foreign language requirement, and history courses. SHSU offers courses like the history of American slavery, silk roads to Atlantic worlds, and religion in world history. Students can combine a teaching certification with the bachelor's degree to meet the educational requirements for a teaching license. Students can also choose an internship to strengthen their public history training and prepare for a museum career. Prospective students can transfer credits from other institutions and take a mix of online and on-campus courses. SHSU requires a minimum 2.5 GPA for transfer students with fewer than 18 college credits or a minimum 2.0 GPA for transfer students with more than 18 credits. Applicants with fewer than 12 transfer credits must submit SAT and ACT scores along with high school transcripts. Prospective students can apply for a fall, spring, or summer start date. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 9 |
University of Arizona |
Tucson, AZ | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 64% |
Founded in Tucson in 1885, the University of Arizona belongs to the state's public university system. UA offers several online degrees, including an online bachelor's degree in history. The program emphasizes themes like family dynamics, scientific discovery, and the human experience. The online history degree incorporates classes from different eras of history. History majors complete general education courses in English, math, and a foreign language. Within the major, students learn about themes in historical research, primary source research, and building arguments with qualitative and quantitative evidence. The curriculum incorporates a mix of U.S. history, European history, and world history courses, with upper-division classes in specialized areas. Seniors complete a capstone course where they write a research essay and present their work in class. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary research skills in the pursuit of knowledge. Prospective students can apply transfer credits from any regionally accredited college or university toward elective or general education requirements. UA also provides transfer credits for military service or an associate degree. Applicants submit official transcripts. Program Overview Delivery Contact |
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| 10 |
Southern New Hampshire University |
Manchester, NH | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 49% |
A private institution located near Manchester, Southern New Hampshire University hosts over 90,000 online students. Online options include an online bachelor's degree in history. Students choose from concentrations in U.S. history, European history, Middle Eastern history, or military history to specialize their degree. Graduates pursue careers in museums, law, and business. The online history degree at SNHU provides a broad foundation in Western civilization and U.S. history. Students can choose a theme to organize their degree, such as economic history, religion, politics, or social history. The degree includes 45 credits of general education courses that emphasize core skills like writing, communication, analysis, and problem-solving. Within the major, students take historical methods and a capstone research seminar, which includes a thesis. History majors can also take 21 elective credits, which enables them to minor in a complementary field. Prospective students work with an SNHU admission counselor to complete the admission process after submitting an online application. Applicants provide transcript release forms for any colleges or universities attended and proof that they hold a high school diploma, GED, or the equivalent. SNHU accepts up to 90 transfer credits toward a bachelor's degree. The university partners with multiple community colleges to ease the transition into a bachelor's program. SNHU also grants credits for professional experience and certifications. Program Overview Delivery Contact |
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| 11 |
University of North Dakota |
Grand Forks, ND | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 14% |
Established in 1883, the University of North Dakota is the oldest university in the state. The public institution enrolls over 10,000 undergraduate students, with over 3,500 students enrolled in UND's online programs. Online options include a bachelor's in social science with a history focus. Students gain a strong background in social sciences, like geography, sociology, and economics, with an emphasis on history. Students gain analytical, writing, and critical thinking skills. Students enrolled in UND's 120-credit online bachelor's degree in history start with survey courses on Western civilization, world history, or U.S. history. History majors also complete general education requirements. Within the major, students choose courses like medieval civilization, women in modern America, U.S. foreign relations, and European witch trials. All history majors complete a senior capstone course where they complete a major research project. Students work with a faculty adviser to choose a topic and conduct research, with the goal of writing a persuasive research paper. Prospective students submit high school transcripts and SAT or ACT scores if they hold fewer than 24 transferable college credits. UND provides a sliding scale of minimum SAT or ACT scores based on the applicant's high school GPA. Transfer students with at least 24 college credits or applicants who are at least 25 years old do not need to provide standardized test scores. Transfer students must provide official transcripts from previously attended colleges. Students can take up to 15 credits at UND as a non-degree student before applying for admission. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 12 |
Arizona State University - SkySong |
Scottsdale, AZ | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 54% |
One of the largest public universities in the U.S., Arizona State University enrolls more than 80,000 students on campus and even more online. The university offers several online degrees through ASU Online, including a bachelor's degree in history. The online history degree comprises 120 credits divided between 39 classes. The transfer-friendly program appeals to students seeking a route to degree completion and those with work and family responsibilities. New history majors at ASU begin with a survey course in global history or U.S. history. Incoming students without transfer credits also take general education classes in English, mathematics, and natural sciences. History majors choose an internship or public history course. All majors complete a capstone course where they apply primary and secondary source research skills to build a historical argument and complete a scholarly research paper. Prospective freshman students should be in the top 25% of their high school class, hold a minimum 3.0 GPA in competency courses, or meet ACT or SAT minimums. Applicants with more than 12 transferable college credits qualify for transfer admission. Prospective students who do not meet the minimum requirements can pursue the earned admission track by speaking with an enrollment adviser. ASU offers a tuition discount for Arizona residents. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 13 |
The Baptist College of Florida |
Graceville, FL | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 47% |
A private, Christian college located in Graceville, the Baptist College of Florida began in 1943 to train Baptist ministers. Today, BCF offers degrees in specialized areas like counseling and education. The college also offers a history education degree online for students pursuing careers in secondary social studies education. The online history and social studies secondary education degree prepares graduates for middle school or high school teaching positions. During the 123-credit program, students complete 48 credits of general education courses in communications, humanities, mathematics, and science. Bachelor's students also take 12 credits of biblical and theological foundations covering the Old Testament, the New Testament, and Southern Baptist life. Within the history secondary education major, students take education courses in curriculum development, methods of teaching, classroom management, and special education. The social studies requirements cover Western civilization, U.S. government, world religions, and the history of economic thought. BCF also offers a history and social studies major without an education focus. Prospective students must demonstrate at least one year of active participation in a Christian church. All applicants submit a recommendation from their church and sign an affirmation of faith and service. BCF also requires applicants to abstain from tobacco, recreational narcotics, and alcohol while enrolled. All applicants provide official transcripts. Students with fewer than 24 college credits must also provide ACT and SAT scores. BCF may offer provisional admission to students who do not meet the requirements. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 14 |
Northwestern State University of Louisiana |
Natchitoches, LA | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 39% |
Founded in 1884 as a teaching college, Northwestern State University of Louisiana offers degrees from its campus in Natchitoches and online, including an online bachelor's degree in history. Students take classes on U.S. and European history, from antiquity through the modern era. NSU also offers classes on Louisiana and Creole history. The degree prepares graduates for careers in government, business, education, law, and history. The 120-credit online history degree includes general education requirements in English, geography, mathematics, and the natural sciences. History majors complete 42 credits within the major, with at least 24 credits of advanced history courses. The history program emphasizes a broad-based education with at least 12 credits of advanced American history courses and 12 credits of advanced non-U.S. history courses. NSU offers minor options, including a minor in Creole studies. The history curriculum includes the history of Louisiana, the French Revolution, the Civil War, and the history of American foreign relations. To earn the bachelor of arts in history, students must complete six foreign language credits. Applicants submit high school or college transcripts and ACT, SAT, or Accuplacer scores. Applicants with more than 18 transfer credits do not need to submit standardized test scores. Students can also earn credits through NSU's prior learning assessment process, which requires a portfolio demonstrating life, work, or volunteer experience. NSU offers a flat tuition rate for undergraduate students regardless of residency. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 15 |
Texas State University |
San Marcos, TX | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 54% |
A public research institution in San Marcos, Texas State University dates back to 1899. Today, Texas State represents the largest institution in the Texas State University System, enrolling over 38,000 students in 50 schools and departments. Texas State also offers online degrees, including a partially online bachelor of arts in history. Students can complete about half of their requirements online, with the rest of their credits earned on campus. The 120-credit accredited online history degree at Texas State incorporates 33 credits of general education courses, including mathematics, philosophy, and the sciences. The bachelor of arts requires additional core courses, including a foreign language course. History majors take 33 credits, including U.S. history, Western or world civilization, and upper-division history classes. The program includes a senior seminar emphasizing research skills. History majors can choose an optional teacher certification program to earn their teaching license. Prospective students submit official transcripts from high school and any colleges attended. First-time freshman, defined as those with fewer than 15 transfer credits, must provide ACT or SAT scores. Applicants with fewer than 15 credits must hold a minimum 2.0 GPA, while those with 16-29 credits must hold a minimum 2.5 GPA and applicants with 30 or more transfer credits must hold a minimum 2.25 GPA. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 16 |
University of Massachusetts - Lowell |
Lowell, MA | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 60% |
From its campus on the banks of the Merrimack River, the University of Massachusetts Lowell enrolls over 18,000 students. UMass Lowell, a public research university, also offers online degrees, including a bachelor's degree in liberal arts with a concentration in history. Students focus on history and an additional concentration, such as art history, gender studies, legal studies, political science, or philosophy. The flexible degree provides multidisciplinary training that emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills. Graduates pursue careers in education, law, politics, and other fields. The online college degree in history at UMass Lowell incorporates 120-122 credits, with 12 required general education courses in English, mathematics, and science. Students customize the degree by choosing two concentrations and taking six courses in each concentration. Within the history concentration, students gain research experience, analytical skills, and critical thinking abilities. History class options include World War II, European economic and social history, and the Civil War. Prospective students must hold a high school diploma or the equivalent. UMass Lowell admits new students on a rolling basis. Applicants under the age of 21 with fewer than 12 transfer credits may need to submit SAT or ACT scores. UMass Lowell provides student support specialists to discuss degree requirements and potential transfer credits. Online students at UMass Lowell pay the same tuition regardless of residency. Program Overview Delivery Contact |
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| 17 |
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee |
Milwaukee, WI | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 41% |
The largest university in Milwaukee, the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee dates back to 1956. The public institution enrolls over 25,000 students and offers online degrees through UWM Online, including an online bachelor's degree in history. UWM Online uses the same semester schedule as on-campus courses. The 120-credit online history degree includes general education courses in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Students also complete a cultural diversity course and an art course. Within the history major, students take 36 credits, including at least six in European history, six in U.S. history, and nine in global history. Majors also choose courses on historical methods, research techniques, and source analysis. The program concludes with a senior seminar. History students complete general education and major requirements online, but UWM does not offer foreign language courses online. Students who do not test out of foreign languages can take in-person courses or transfer foreign language credits from another institution. Applicants submit high school and college transcripts and SAT or ACT scores. Students with at least 12 transferable college credits do not need to provide standardized test scores. UWM also offers online certificates. Certificate options include archives and records administration, business analytics, digital libraries, and professional writing. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 18 |
University of Louisiana at Monroe |
Monroe, LA | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 41% |
Founded in 1931, the University of Louisiana at Monroe offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees as part of the state's public university system. ULM also offers online degrees, including an online bachelor's degree in history. The degree emphasizes historical research and analysis with broad-based training in U.S. and non-U.S. history. Graduates pursue careers in law, public relations, publishing, education, and government. ULM reports that 90% of history graduates hold jobs within 60 days of graduation. ULM history majors complete 120 credits to earn their bachelor's degree, including general education courses in English composition, fine arts, mathematics, and the natural sciences. Within the major, students take survey courses in world civilization and U.S. history. Students customize the degree by choosing electives in U.S. and non-U.S. history, such as the history of Islam, the Atlantic world, and U.S. military history. ULM also requires students to select a minor. ULM offers four-week, eight-week, and 16-week terms. Prospective students submit high school transcripts and ACT or SAT scores. Applicants with at least 18 transfer credits with a minimum 2.0 GPA do not need to submit standardized test scores. Transfer students need college-level English and mathematics courses with a minimum grade of C to enroll. ULM also offers prior learning assessment options that let online students test out of courses. With transfer credit options and accelerated courses, ULM students can earn their degree in two years. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 19 |
University of Nebraska at Kearney |
Kearney, NE | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 61% |
Located in western Nebraska near the Platte River, the University of Nebraska at Kearney dates back to 1905 when it opened as a teacher's school. Today, the public institution enrolls over 7,000 students, with additional students earning online degrees. UNK offers multiple online bachelor's degrees, including an online bachelor of arts in history. The 120-credit online history degree emphasizes critical thinking, reading, and writing skills. Graduates pursue careers in education, business, law, and public history. History majors complete 45 credits of general education courses in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. They also earn six credits in a foreign language. Within the major, students take 36 credits, including American history, Western civilization, and world history. History majors also earn 24 credits of upper-division history courses divided between European history, U.S. history, and world history. UNK's course options include American military history, saints and sinners, the Plains Indians, and the history of sea power. All students complete a senior seminar where students research and write an original research paper. Prospective students who plan to complete the degree fully online must be transfer students, readmit students, or students seeking a second bachelor's degree. All students provide official high school transcripts except for those who already hold a bachelor's. Transfer applicants also provide official college transcripts. UNK offers a tuition discount for Nebraska residents. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 20 |
Thomas Edison State University |
Trenton, NJ | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 45% |
A public university in Trenton, New Jersey, Thomas Edison States grants undergraduate and graduate degrees in more than 100 fields. In addition to enrolling 18,000 on-campus students, TESU offers online degrees, including a bachelor of arts in history. The online history degree trains students in weighing evidence and evaluating competing interpretations of the past. History majors gain a broad knowledge of history while strengthening their critical thinking and analytical skills. The 120-credit history degree builds knowledge in American history and world history or Western civilization through its curriculum. Students complete 60 credits of general education requirements, including quantitative literacy, the natural world, and communications. TESU also incorporates up to 20 credits of general education electives, which students can meet with transfer credits. Within the history major, students take six credits of Western civilization or world history, plus six credits of American history, three credits of non-Western history, and a historical methods class. Majors customize the degree through history electives like American urban history, the history of Mexico, the Renaissance, and the Supreme Court in American history. TESU offers a generous transfer credit policy, with the option to transfer up to 80 credits from a regionally accredited community college or 117 credits from a regionally accredited four-year institution. Prospective students submit official college transcripts. TESU does not require SAT or ACT scores. Applicants need a high school diploma or the equivalent and must be at least 21 years old. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 21 |
University of Idaho |
Moscow, ID | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 9% |
Founded in 1889 as Idaho’s flagship university, the University of Idaho confers degrees from its Moscow campus and online. Online program options include an online bachelor’s degree in history, which emphasizes strong research, writing, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. Graduates pursue careers in business, law, education, and other fields. The fully online college degree in history offers a bachelor of arts or a bachelor of science option, with foreign language requirements for the bachelor of arts. Students complete general education requirements in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Within the major, students choose a general concentration or an emphasis on American or European history. History majors also complete a senior research capstone seminar. Course offerings include U.S. history, the history of England, Japanese history, and U.S. diplomatic history. U of I offers internships, directed studies courses, and a history honor society to build professional experience. Prospective students can apply throughout the year, with fall and spring semester start dates. U of I requires official high school transcripts and SAT or ACT scores for students with fewer than 14 college credits. Transfer students need a minimum 2.0 college-level GPA. Full-time online students pay the same tuition rate regardless of residency. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 22 |
University of Maryland - University College |
Adelphi, MD | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 55% |
A public university focused on online education, the University of Maryland University College serves over 90,000 students. One of the largest online universities in the U.S., UMUC offers degrees in over 100 programs, including an online bachelor’s degree in history that offers a broad-based education in U.S., European, and world history. Students build strong research and writing skills, preparing for careers in law, education, politics, and business. Students in the 120-credit online history degree complete general education requirements in communications, the humanities, natural sciences, and computing. Within the history major, students take world history or Western civilization, a survey course on U.S. history, and historical methods. UMUC allows students to focus on U.S. or world history, with course options like the American West, U.S. women’s history, the history of China, and the Roman republic. All students complete a capstone course, which emphasizes intensive research. Prospective students provide official transcripts. UMUC accepts up to 90 credits from a four-year institution and up to 70 credits from a two-year college toward the degree requirements. The institution also offers credit for professional and military experience. UMUC does not require SAT or ACT scores. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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| 23 |
Ottawa University |
Ottawa, KS | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 46% |
A Baptist institution located in Ottawa, Kansas, Ottawa University dates back to 1865. OU offers degrees from two residential campuses and online, including an online bachelor’s degree in history. The degree focuses on the relationship between society and the environment, social and political movements, and issues of war and peace. The online history degree prepares graduates for careers in teaching, politics, government, and law. Within the history major, students complete courses in world regional geography, American history, and world civilization. History majors also take a seminar in American history and government or world history. Seniors take a capstone course on global issues in historical perspectives, which integrates knowledge gained during the major. OU emphasizes U.S. history in its course options, with classes in American women’s history, religion in American culture, and the U.S. Constitution. In addition to history courses, students complete general education requirements. Prospective students work with an enrollment adviser. Applicants submit official transcripts showing all college credits earned. OU offers a generous transfer policy, accepting up to 80 transfer credits toward a 124-credit degree. Once admitted, students work with an academic adviser and financial adviser to make progress toward their degree. OU promotes its life-friendly online learning program, which offers flexibility for working adults and military personnel. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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University of North Alabama |
Florence, AL | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 45% |
Founded in 1830 in Florence, the University of North Alabama belongs to the state’s public university system. Through North Alabama Online, students can earn an online bachelor’s degree in history. The program offers a bachelor of arts or a bachelor of science option. Graduates work in business, government, journalism, education, and other fields. During the 120-credit online history degree, students complete 41 credits of general education requirements, with an additional six credits in a foreign language for the BA. The history major includes 36 credits, with required courses in U.S. history and historical research, and upper-division electives in U.S. history and non-U.S. history. Students also complete a senior thesis to demonstrate mastery of a historical topic. History majors typically earn the degree in four years, or less with transfer credits. UNA offers diverse online history courses with small class sizes. Prospective freshmen students submit high school transcripts, ACT or SAT scores, and any college transcripts. Transfer students with at least 24 transferable credits do not need to submit high school transcripts or standardized test scores. UNA also offers an online master’s degree in history. Program Overview Delivery Admission Requirements Contact |
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Bellevue University |
Bellevue, NE | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 17% |
From its Bellevue, Nebraska campus, Bellevue University focuses on educating working professionals. BU offers several online degrees, including an online bachelor of science in history. The program emphasizes the development of human societies and the dynamics that shape history. Students interested in earning a history education degree online can choose the secondary teacher education option with a history endorsement. The program trains history and social science teachers for grades 7-12, providing the educational background for secondary teacher certification. BU’s online history program incorporates 36 credits of general education coursework, 30 credits in the major, and 61 elective credits, which students can transfer in from eligible institutions. The 127-credit degree includes courses in world history, U.S. history, the history of Nebraska, and World War II. All students complete the nine-credit Kirkpatrick signature series, which emphasizes institutions and traditions of Western civilization through coursework in American vision and values, tradition and change, and freedom and responsibility. BU’s history curriculum emphasizes analytical, critical thinking, and research skills. Prospective students must provide official documentation of a high school diploma or the equivalent. BU waives the requirement for proof of high school completion for applicants with a two-year degree from a regionally accredited institution. Transfer applicants must submit official transcripts from each accredited institution attended. Students must complete at least 30 credits toward the degree at BU. Program Overview Delivery Contact |
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 2018
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Ranking School Location 1 University of Central Florida Orlando, FL 2 Thomas Edison State University Trenton, NJ 3 The Baptist College of Florida Graceville, FL 4 University of Illinois at Springfield Springfield, IL 5 Liberty University Lynchburg, VA 6 Arizona State University - Tempe Tempe, AZ 7 University of Nebraska at Kearney Kearney, NE 8 National University La Jolla, CA 9 University of Arizona Tucson, AZ 10 Northwestern State University of Louisiana Natchitoches, LA 11 University of Massachusetts - Lowell Lowell, MA 12 University of North Dakota Grand Forks, ND 13 University of Louisiana at Monroe Monroe, LA 14 Oregon State University Corvallis, OR 15 Bellevue University Bellevue, NE 16 Southern New Hampshire University Manchester, NH 17 Sam Houston State University Huntsville, TX 18 University of North Alabama Florence, AL 19 University of Massachusetts - Dartmouth Dartmouth, MA 20 Eastern New Mexico University Portales, NM 21 Nicholls State University Thibodaux, LA 22 University of Memphis Memphis, TN 23 University of Maryland - University College Adelphi, MD 24 Westfield State University Westfield, MA 25 Columbia College Columbia, MO - Best Online Bachelor's in History Degree Programs of 2017
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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