Best Online History Programs
Want to understand the past? Start today with an online degree from one of our top-ranked history degree programs.
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Students can become scholars of the past by earning an online bachelor’s in history degree. The broad curriculum prepares graduates to work in government, museums, and schools. With a bachelor’s in history, students can grow in their careers or meet the prerequisites to apply to graduate school.
Learn more about an online bachelor’s in history degree, including common courses, financial aid opportunities, admissions requirements, and the careers that await graduates.
Graduates with a history degree work in many sectors. Graduates may find jobs as museum technicians. Jobs as archivists, curators, historians, or conservators require students to earn at least a master’s degree in history.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for archivists, curators, and museum workers will grow 11% between 2023 and 2033. In 2023, these professionals made a median annual salary of $57,120.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Bachelor’s in History Programs
What can you do with a bachelor’s degree in history?
Students can enter graduate school immediately after earning an online bachelor’s degree in history. These undergraduate credits satisfy the requirements to apply for a master’s degree in history or a related field. Graduates can also pursue work as a researcher or museum technician.
Is a history degree a BA or BS?
Colleges may offer both an online bachelor of arts in history and an online bachelor of science in history. A bachelor of arts degree gives students a foundation in the humanities, whereas a bachelor of science degree provides more of a concentration in the sciences.
How much do history majors make?
History majors earn different salaries depending on their experience and skills. Archivists made a median annual salary of $59,910 in 2023, according to the BLS.
Where do historians work?
Historians work in museums, schools, and government agencies. Museum technicians may work in cultural centers or museums. Graduates may also find jobs in high schools as history teachers or at colleges as researchers and teaching assistants.
What classes do you take in a bachelor’s in history program?
Students enrolled in a bachelor’s in history program strengthen their research, communication, and critical-thinking skills. They take classes in topics like East Asian civilization, American history, and modern world history, and often finish off their program with a senior capstone.
Featured Programs in History
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Accredited Online Bachelor’s in History Programs
Rankings compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team
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How We Rank Schools
To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.
To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:
- Affordability (30%)
- Student outcomes (30%)
- Reputation (20%)
- Diversity and social mobility (20%)
In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA4 yearCampus + Online
$15,417
$15,417
51%
92%
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $390
Out of State | $390
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
A Christian institution in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty offers an online bachelor's in history degree. Students can develop critical thinking skills and knowledge of the past. Learners take courses in both U.S. and world history, including geography, history of western civilization, and survey of American history.
Each course lasts eight weeks, and students can complete the program in 3.5 years. Applicants should hold a GPA of 2.5 or above, and transfer students may bring in up to 90 credits.
$7,980
$7,980
81%
85,586
Private
Yes
$15,417
$15,417
Lynchburg, VA4 yearCampus + Online
$15,417
$15,417
51%
92%
$7,980
$7,980
81%
85,586
Private
Yes
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $390
Out of State | $390
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
A Christian institution in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty offers an online bachelor's in history degree. Students can develop critical thinking skills and knowledge of the past. Learners take courses in both U.S. and world history, including geography, history of western civilization, and survey of American history.
Each course lasts eight weeks, and students can complete the program in 3.5 years. Applicants should hold a GPA of 2.5 or above, and transfer students may bring in up to 90 credits.
Ottawa University
Ottawa, KS4 yearOnline
$11,976
$11,976
N/A
N/A
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $499
Out of State | $499
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
OU, a private school in Ottawa, Kansas, provides an online bachelor's in history to help students synthesize the past with contemporary problems. Courses include American government, religion in American culture, and global issues in historical perspective. Students may concentrate in secondary education.
Graduates can pursue a master's degree or a career as an historian, curator, or park ranger. Applicants should submit all academic transcripts. Tribal and military-ROTC applicants may receive special tuition assistance.
$11,430
$11,430
N/A
261
Private
Yes
$11,976
$11,976
Ottawa, KS4 yearOnline
$11,976
$11,976
N/A
N/A
$11,430
$11,430
N/A
261
Private
Yes
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $499
Out of State | $499
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
OU, a private school in Ottawa, Kansas, provides an online bachelor's in history to help students synthesize the past with contemporary problems. Courses include American government, religion in American culture, and global issues in historical perspective. Students may concentrate in secondary education.
Graduates can pursue a master's degree or a career as an historian, curator, or park ranger. Applicants should submit all academic transcripts. Tribal and military-ROTC applicants may receive special tuition assistance.
Eastern New Mexico University
Portales, NM4 yearCampus + Online
$3,996
$5,994
58%
69%
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $170
Out of State | $255
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Students in ENMU's online bachelor's in history learn a historical approach to solving modern problems. Enrollees interested in teaching can add on a licensure program, although this part of the degree may not be entirely online.
Courses in the history major include U.S. history I and II, western civilization I and II, and imperialism to globalism. The program concludes with a one-credit portfolio. First-year applicants must submit transcripts or GED scores, along with SAT or ACT results.
$7,044
$9,342
63%
5,685
Public
Yes
$3,996
$5,994
Portales, NM4 yearCampus + Online
$3,996
$5,994
58%
69%
$7,044
$9,342
63%
5,685
Public
Yes
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $170
Out of State | $255
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Students in ENMU's online bachelor's in history learn a historical approach to solving modern problems. Enrollees interested in teaching can add on a licensure program, although this part of the degree may not be entirely online.
Courses in the history major include U.S. history I and II, western civilization I and II, and imperialism to globalism. The program concludes with a one-credit portfolio. First-year applicants must submit transcripts or GED scores, along with SAT or ACT results.
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR4 yearCampus + Online
$9,846
$29,445
82%
47%
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $331
Out of State | $331
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Located in Corvallis, Oregon, OSU offers an online bachelor's in history program. Students prepare to write and think critically. Courses include African history, medieval Europe, slavery in the Americas, and global history of sports.
Online students may join OSU's history students association and participate in a public history internship. First-year applicants must submit a transcript showing they have completed all high school requirements. OSU does not require ACT or SAT scores for admission.
$12,933
$24,975
85%
31,719
Public
Yes
$9,846
$29,445
Corvallis, OR4 yearCampus + Online
$9,846
$29,445
82%
47%
$12,933
$24,975
85%
31,719
Public
Yes
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $331
Out of State | $331
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Located in Corvallis, Oregon, OSU offers an online bachelor's in history program. Students prepare to write and think critically. Courses include African history, medieval Europe, slavery in the Americas, and global history of sports.
Online students may join OSU's history students association and participate in a public history internship. First-year applicants must submit a transcript showing they have completed all high school requirements. OSU does not require ACT or SAT scores for admission.
Maryville University of Saint Louis
Saint Louis, MO4 yearCampus + Online
$26,070
$26,070
83%
76%
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $500
Out of State | $500
Credits to Graduate
128
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Maryville's online bachelor's in history equips students with career-ready skills in research, writing, and digital literacy. Courses include world history since 1500, historical methods, and American foreign policy since WWII. Students also complete an internship and a portfolio project.
Graduates can apply for further academic work or employment in a research center, museum, or government agency. Qualified students may earn up to 12 dual credits toward a master's degree. Applicants need a GED or high school diploma with a 2.5 GPA or better.
$14,346
$14,346
83%
10,013
Private
Yes
$26,070
$26,070
Saint Louis, MO4 yearCampus + Online
$26,070
$26,070
83%
76%
$14,346
$14,346
83%
10,013
Private
Yes
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $500
Out of State | $500
Credits to Graduate
128
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Maryville's online bachelor's in history equips students with career-ready skills in research, writing, and digital literacy. Courses include world history since 1500, historical methods, and American foreign policy since WWII. Students also complete an internship and a portfolio project.
Graduates can apply for further academic work or employment in a research center, museum, or government agency. Qualified students may earn up to 12 dual credits toward a master's degree. Applicants need a GED or high school diploma with a 2.5 GPA or better.
Nicholls State University
Thibodaux, LA4 yearCampus + Online
$4,922
$6,015
88%
52%
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $275
Out of State | $275
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
A public institution in Thibodeaux, Louisiana, Nicholls offers an online bachelor's in history. Learners discover how to think and write coherently about the contemporary world. In this program, students must take 36 credits in history, including world history, the historian's craft, and pop culture in America.
First-time applicants under the age of 25 must meet academic requirements for high school, including a 2.0 GPA or better and minimum scores on the ACT or SAT.
$5,686
$6,779
73%
6,491
Public
Yes
$4,922
$6,015
Thibodaux, LA4 yearCampus + Online
$4,922
$6,015
88%
52%
$5,686
$6,779
73%
6,491
Public
Yes
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $275
Out of State | $275
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
A public institution in Thibodeaux, Louisiana, Nicholls offers an online bachelor's in history. Learners discover how to think and write coherently about the contemporary world. In this program, students must take 36 credits in history, including world history, the historian's craft, and pop culture in America.
First-time applicants under the age of 25 must meet academic requirements for high school, including a 2.0 GPA or better and minimum scores on the ACT or SAT.
Westfield State University
Westfield, MA4 yearCampus + Online
$970
$7,050
87%
41%
100% Online
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $330
Out of State | $330
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | Yes
A public university in Massachusetts, Westfield provides an online bachelor's in history for graduates from a Massachusetts community college or its equivalent. Students learn U.S., European, and world history. Courses include the historian, western experience I and II, and introduction to historical research and analysis. The program concludes with a senior seminar.
Westfield accepts up to 79 transfer credits from a two-year school. Applicants with more than 24 college credits need a 2.0 GPA or better.
$1,890
$1,890
72%
5,795
Public
Yes
$970
$7,050
Westfield, MA4 yearCampus + Online
$970
$7,050
87%
41%
$1,890
$1,890
72%
5,795
Public
Yes
100% Online
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $330
Out of State | $330
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | Yes
A public university in Massachusetts, Westfield provides an online bachelor's in history for graduates from a Massachusetts community college or its equivalent. Students learn U.S., European, and world history. Courses include the historian, western experience I and II, and introduction to historical research and analysis. The program concludes with a senior seminar.
Westfield accepts up to 79 transfer credits from a two-year school. Applicants with more than 24 college credits need a 2.0 GPA or better.
University of Louisiana at Monroe
Monroe, LA4 yearCampus + Online
$5,788
$17,888
80%
43%
100% Online
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $400
Out of State | $400
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Students at ULM can prepare for a career in law, journalism, foreign affairs, or civil service with an online bachelor's in history. This program requires 39 major credits, including courses in historian's craft, world civilization, and U.S. history.
ULM offers online courses in eight-week blocks. Students take 2-3 courses per block. Applicants must submit their transcripts and an application fee. They may include CLEP, DSST, or portfolio assessments for potential college credit.
$6,490
$18,590
73%
8,673
Public
Yes
$5,788
$17,888
Monroe, LA4 yearCampus + Online
$5,788
$17,888
80%
43%
$6,490
$18,590
73%
8,673
Public
Yes
100% Online
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $400
Out of State | $400
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Students at ULM can prepare for a career in law, journalism, foreign affairs, or civil service with an online bachelor's in history. This program requires 39 major credits, including courses in historian's craft, world civilization, and U.S. history.
ULM offers online courses in eight-week blocks. Students take 2-3 courses per block. Applicants must submit their transcripts and an application fee. They may include CLEP, DSST, or portfolio assessments for potential college credit.
University of Illinois at Springfield
Springfield, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$9,520
$15,948
77%
70%
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $362
Out of State | $362
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | Yes
UIS offers an online bachelor's in history to help students develop research, analysis, and communication skills. This degree can prepare graduates for careers in politics, journalism, law, or public administration. Courses include egyptology, making of the west, Islamic civilization, and history of Russia: Peter I to Putin.
Applicants must live at least 50 miles from campus or have a documented disability to enter online programs. Admission requirements include 30 credits of lower division coursework with a 2.5 GPA or better.
$8,270
$15,240
79%
4,275
Public
Yes
$9,520
$15,948
Springfield, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$9,520
$15,948
77%
70%
$8,270
$15,240
79%
4,275
Public
Yes
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $362
Out of State | $362
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | Yes
UIS offers an online bachelor's in history to help students develop research, analysis, and communication skills. This degree can prepare graduates for careers in politics, journalism, law, or public administration. Courses include egyptology, making of the west, Islamic civilization, and history of Russia: Peter I to Putin.
Applicants must live at least 50 miles from campus or have a documented disability to enter online programs. Admission requirements include 30 credits of lower division coursework with a 2.5 GPA or better.
Sterling College
Sterling, KS4 yearCampus + Online
$26,000
$26,000
40%
14%
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $145
Out of State | $145
Credits to Graduate
124
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
A private Christian college located in Sterling, Kansas, SC provides an online bachelor's in history to help students learn critical thinking and reasoning. Graduates may pursue careers in writing, law, or research. SC also offers coursework leading to Kansas teacher licensure for grades 6-12.
SC students can concentrate in American history, European history, or non-western history. The program includes a research methods course and senior thesis. Traditional applicants need a 2.75 GPA for full admission.
$13,860
$13,860
59%
653
Private
Yes
$26,000
$26,000
Sterling, KS4 yearCampus + Online
$26,000
$26,000
40%
14%
$13,860
$13,860
59%
653
Private
Yes
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $145
Out of State | $145
Credits to Graduate
124
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
A private Christian college located in Sterling, Kansas, SC provides an online bachelor's in history to help students learn critical thinking and reasoning. Graduates may pursue careers in writing, law, or research. SC also offers coursework leading to Kansas teacher licensure for grades 6-12.
SC students can concentrate in American history, European history, or non-western history. The program includes a research methods course and senior thesis. Traditional applicants need a 2.75 GPA for full admission.
What Can I Expect From an Online Bachelor’s in History Program?
An online bachelor’s in history degree provides a comprehensive survey of the past. The curriculum gives students the context to analyze contemporary social, political, and economic issues. Specific curriculum varies depending on the school. However, all classes teach students the foundational skills needed for graduate school or careers in history-related fields.
Bachelor’s in history degrees teach students how to build their analytical, oral communication, persuasive writing, and research skills. Students can also tailor their education by deciding on a concentration.
Programs include courses like world civilizations and prehistory. After finishing the program, graduates may pursue careers as museum technicians, high school teachers, and researchers. Careers like librarians, professors, and historians require a minimum of a master’s degree.
What Courses Will I Take in an Online Bachelor’s in History Program?
History of Western Civilization
This course provides a survey of Western civilizations, including wars and the rise and fall of empires. Materials in this course examine major movements throughout history in North America and Europe. The curriculum also examines the political, religious, and cultural movements within Western civilizations.
Political Parties
Students enrolled in this class embark on a comprehensive study of government and politics. Every school differs, and curriculum may focus on a different political movement within history.
Human Geography
This course incorporates history, geography, and anthropology. Human geography introduces students to the settlement of humans around the globe over time. Students look at patterns to better understand historical, cultural, and land use issues. This course also considers the historical human impact on the environment and natural resources.
20th-Century Global History
Students enrolled in a 20th-century global history class learn about major events and cultural movements that have shaped history from 1900 to 2000. Common topics include World War I and World War II, the Great Depression, and the Cold War. The literature in this course may touch on the spread of capitalism or the emergence of the United States.
American Women’s History
By the end of this course, students have a firm grasp of how women have shaped American history. Students study the shifts in women’s roles, legal status, and rights. The class provides a deeper understanding of the feminist movement in America and major court cases and laws that impacted women’s rights.
Featured Programs in History
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Bachelor’s in History Program?
Online Application
Students must submit online applications through the college’s website or using Common App, a program that allows students to submit one application for several colleges. The average college application requires students to submit personal, professional, and financial information.
Transcripts
During the application process, students need to submit hardcopy or digital transcripts. Students most likely need to pay a transcript request fee. In some instances, colleges will accept unofficial transcripts with the application. Admissions may handle acquiring transcripts for students in some cases.
Essay
Colleges often ask students to submit supplement materials with their applications, such as a personal or professional essay. The personal essay outlines a student’s background and goals. A professional essay focuses on a student’s work background and choice of major. Essays are generally 1-2 pages.
Letters of Reference
Students must include 1-3 letters of reference with their applications. The letters typically come from professional contacts, such as professors, mentors, or supervisors from work or internships.
FAFSA
After completing a college application, students who need federal financial assistance must also fill out a FAFSA form. Students must complete their FAFSA by June 30 and renew it every year. The financial aid office determines how much aid to give each student based on their FAFSA.
What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor’s in History?
A bachelor’s in history prepares graduates for numerous potential pathways. Students can either continue their education or enter the workforce after earning their degree. During their senior year, students can begin applying for graduate school to get a master’s in history.
Students can pursue careers in high schools, colleges, libraries, or museums. Any positions higher than entry-level — such as professor, curator, or historian — generally require a master’s.
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