The Best Online Bachelor's in History Programs of 2020
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 enroll in 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.
What Are the Best History Programs of 2020? Here Are Our Top 10:
| Rank | School | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Central Florida | Orlando, FL |
| 2 | Florida International University | Miami, FL |
| 3 | Arizona State University | Scottsdale, AZ |
| 4 | The Baptist College of Florida | Graceville, FL |
| 5 | University of Illinois at Springfield | Springfield, IL |
| 6 | Texas State University | San Marcos, TX |
| 7 | Sam Houston State University | Huntsville, TX |
| 8 | Clayton State University | Morrow, GA |
| 9 | University of Louisiana at Monroe | Monroe, LA |
| 10 | Liberty University | Lynchburg, VA |
Graduates with a history degree work in many sectors. Immediately after graduation, students may find jobs as museum technicians. Jobs as archivists, curators, historians, or conservators require students to earn at least a master's degree.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs as museum technicians to grow by 9% through 2028. As of May 2018, archivists, curators, and museum workers make a median annual salary of $48,400.
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2020 Best Accredited Online Bachelor's in History Programs
| Rank | School | Location | Cost | Graduation Rate | Description | Toggle |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
University of Central Florida |
Orlando, FL | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 73% |
Degree-seekers interested in earning an online bachelor's in history can consider the fully online program at the University of Central Florida. Offered within the school's College of Arts and Humanities, the curriculum features 120 credits of coursework to prepare learners for successful careers after graduation. Throughout the program, students develop critical thinking and analytical skills, examining the cultural and historical events that have impacted the modern world. Learners can tailor the program to their interests by choosing a geographical focus area, such as North America, Latin America, Asia, Africa, Europe, or the Middle East. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in History DeliveryFormat: 100% online Admission RequirementsStandardized Tests: ACT or SAT Contact Phone: (855) 903-8576 |
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| 2 |
Florida International University |
Miami, FL | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 58% |
Florida International University offers a fully online bachelor of arts in history that allows learners to continue working as they earn their degree. Coursework highlights different geographical areas, including Latin America, the United States, Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Caribbean. Throughout the curriculum, degree-seekers explore historical topics related to issues like gender and sexuality, science and medicine, trade and economic history, and the environment. Prospective first-year students must complete an application, provide high school transcripts, and submit official ACT or SAT test scores. Transfer students should provide high school transcripts and test scores if they do not have at least 60 transferable college credits. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in History DeliveryFormat: 100% online Admission RequirementsStandardized Tests: SAT or ACT Contact Phone: (855) 940-1517 |
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| 3 |
Arizona State University |
Scottsdale, AZ | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 48% |
Arizona State University's fully online bachelor's in history features 39 courses delivered in 7.5-week classes. The 120-credit curriculum is rooted in the humanities and explores topics including global history of health, exploration and empire, history of mass communication, and world music. Learners gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in roles like archivist, historian, museum curator, and history professor. Applicants must hold a minimum 3.0 GPA and provide high school transcripts and ACT or SAT test scores. Eighty percent of students at the university receive some form of financial aid, and in-state and out-of-state distance learners pay the same tuition rates. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in History DeliveryFormat: 100% online Admission Requirements GPA: 3.0 minimum Contact Phone: (866) 277-6589 |
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| 4 |
The Baptist College of Florida |
Graceville, FL | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 62% |
Regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, The Baptist College of Florida provides an online bachelor's in history degree from a Christian context. The program enables learners to connect their understanding and knowledge of people, events, and places throughout history and provides a foundation for graduate or seminary studies. Comprising 120 credits of coursework, the curriculum focuses on topics such as world religions, history of economic thought, U.S. government, and history of American social development. Students complete core coursework, general education courses, biblical/theological foundation courses, general electives, and major coursework. Candidates must provide official high school transcripts, letters of recommendation from their church and pastor, two recent photographs, and their immunization records. Students can apply for institutional scholarships and financial aid from the Florida Baptist Convention. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in History and Social Studies Delivery Format: 100% online Contact Phone: (800) 328-2660 |
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| 5 |
University of Illinois at Springfield |
Springfield, IL | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 51% |
The University of Illinois at Springfield offers an online bachelor's in history program that maintains the same structure and course requirements as its on-campus counterpart. Degree-seekers take asynchronous classes. The curriculum features courses such as peoples of the past, animals in antiquity, topics in comparative religion, and American agricultural history. Students gain the knowledge needed to pursue a variety of careers, such as historian, journalist, and educator. Applicants must submit official high school transcripts demonstrating a minimum 2.5 GPA and a statement of purpose detailing their educational and professional goals. Qualified participants can apply for the Chapin Award for Student Research. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in History Delivery Format: 100% online Admission RequirementsGPA: 2.5 minimum Contact Phone: (217) 206-6779 |
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| 6 |
Texas State University |
San Marcos, TX | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 55% |
Boasting one of the top bachelor's in history programs in the U.S., Texas State University offers students the opportunity to pursue a teacher certification alongside their history degree. The curriculum helps learners expand their critical thinking, research, and analytical skills. Participants can also pursue study abroad opportunities in England and India. Students must complete 33 major-related credits, including courses related to world history, European history, and U.S. history. Prior to graduation, candidates must also complete a capstone project that prepares them for teacher certification. This history degree is delivered through a hybrid format, and students can complete 25-49% of the program online. Prospective first-year students must provide high school transcripts and ACT or SAT scores. Students can apply for several scholarships hosted by the history department, including the Alton G. Brieger Scholarship and the Taylor-Murphy Scholarship. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in History DeliveryFormat: Hybrid (online/on campus) Admission RequirementsStandardized Tests: SAT or ACT Contact Phone: (512) 245-2142 |
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| 7 |
Sam Houston State University |
Huntsville, TX | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 52% |
Serving over 21,000 students on campus and online, Sam Houston State University offers an online bachelor of arts in history that utilizes three start dates per year. SHSU also maintains a specialized bachelor of science in history program designed for premedical students; however, the BS degree option is only available on campus. Distance learners pursuing a BA in history must take 14 credits of foreign language classes and fulfill the requirements for a minor in another subject. Students can select from focus areas in military, U.S., world, African American, Latin American, and European history. History students can also obtain Texas teacher certification through SHSU. Additionally, learners planning to pursue museum careers can participate in an internship at the Sam Houston Memorial Museum. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in History DeliveryFormat: 100% online Admission RequirementsStandardized Tests: ACT or SAT Contact Phone: (877) 870-9214 |
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| 8 |
Clayton State University |
Morrow, GA | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 30% |
Established in 1969 in Morrow, Georgia, Clayton State University offers an online bachelor's in history that takes a holistic approach to the discipline and provides degree-seekers with a broad survey of history and the humanities. The curriculum includes courses such as historiography, colonial Latin American history, introduction to historic preservation, and women's history. The program emphasizes core skills related to written communication, global perspectives, computer literacy, cross-cultural competency, and teamwork and collaboration. Applicants must submit official high school transcripts, SAT or ACT test scores, and a certificate of immunization. CSU's history program allows learners to pursue a relevant academic minor, including business, computer science, Spanish, or philosophy. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in History DeliveryFormat: 100% online Admission RequirementsStandardized Tests: ACT or SAT Contact Phone: (678) 466-4000 |
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| 9 |
University of Louisiana at Monroe |
Monroe, LA | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 44% |
The University of Louisiana at Monroe offers an online bachelor's in history that teaches learners the specialized skills they need to perform historical research and analysis. Program graduates are prepared for a variety of careers in fields like public relations, law, journalism, and education. The curriculum explores subjects like world civilization, United States history, the historian's craft, and regional geography. All students in the program are required to declare an academic minor in another subject. Applicants must provide their official high school transcripts demonstrating a 2.0 minimum GPA and submit ACT or SAT test scores. The university holds regional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in History DeliveryFormat: 100% online Admission Requirements GPA: 2.0 minimum Contact Phone: (318) 342-3145 |
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| 10 |
Liberty University |
Lynchburg, VA | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 50% |
Liberty University hosts many programs for distance learners, including an online bachelor's in history. The program does not require any campus visits and allows learners to complete their degree in 3.5 years. Classes are offered through eight-week sessions on a year-round basis. Students can bring in up to 90 transfer credits of coursework earned at another institution or gained from military or relevant work experience. The curriculum helps students build skills and knowledge through courses like historical methodology, the history of Western civilization, geography, and American history. Prospective students must submit official high school transcripts. Law enforcement personnel, firefighters, and first responders are eligible for tuition discounts. The university holds regional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Science in History DeliveryFormat: 100% online Contact Phone: (800) 424-9595 |
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| 11 |
Oregon State University |
Corvallis, OR | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 67% |
Oregon State University offers over 70 distance-based degree programs, including online bachelor's in history tracks that lead to a BS or a BA. Participants develop core knowledge of historical chronology and different cultural perspectives across U.S. history. The curriculum requires learners to complete 180 quarter credits. Classes explore a variety of specialized topics, including Jewish traditions, history of human rights, ancient civilizations, women in U.S. history, and the American military. The program accepts transfer credits from accredited institutions, but at least 45 of a student's last 75 credits must be completed at OSU. The university provides a variety of need-based and financial hardship grants, as well as numerous scholarship opportunities. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts or Science in History DeliveryFormat: 100% online Contact Phone: (541) 737-9204 |
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| 12 |
Southern New Hampshire University |
Manchester, NH | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 54% |
A leading provider of distance learning with over 90,000 online students, Southern New Hampshire University provides an online bachelor's in history that focuses on the connections between modern societies and ancient civilizations. Learners can tailor their degree to match specific career goals and personal interests by pursuing a concentration in military history, American history, Middle Eastern history, or European history. The flexible curriculum includes classes like world history from 1500-present, introduction to cultural anthropology, and religions of the world. All degree candidates must complete a capstone research project in a subject approved by an instructor. Students can transfer in up to 90 credits of coursework from other accredited institutions. Individuals do not need to pay an application fee or provide ACT or SAT scores. SNHU holds regional accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in History DeliveryFormat: 100% online Contact Phone: (800) 668-1249 |
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| 13 |
Washington State University |
Pullman, WA | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 59% |
Featuring one of the best online bachelor's in history programs, Washington State University enables history students to focus on a variety of subject areas, including religious, world, military, gender, European, and diplomatic history. The 120-credit curriculum comprises university general education requirements, history core courses, history electives, and concentration courses. Learners can select a concentration in United States, European, or Atlantic studies. All degree candidates must complete one year of foreign language studies in a single language unless they completed at least two years of foreign language classes in high school. Applicants must provide official high school transcripts and ACT or SAT scores. Prospective students with a minimum 3.5 GPA and those who ranked in the top 10% of their class are assured admission. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in History DeliveryFormat: 100% online Admission RequirementsStandardized Tests: ACT or SAT Contact Phone: (800) 222-4978 |
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| 14 |
Northwestern State University of Louisiana |
Natchitoches, LA | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 45% |
Originally established as a two-year college for teachers, Northwestern State University of Louisiana today provides students with a variety of on campus and online opportunities, including an online bachelor's in history that focuses on European and United States history. The curriculum covers many subject areas, such as the Civil War, military history of the U.S., and America in transition. Students can also take specific classes related to Louisiana and Creole history and explore other world history topics. Applicants must hold a minimum 2.0 high school GPA and provide official high school transcripts, SAT or ACT test scores, and immunization records. All online students pay the same tuition, regardless of their location. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in History DeliveryFormat: 100% online Admission Requirements GPA: 2.0 minimum Contact Phone: (318) 357-6967 |
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| 15 |
University of Missouri - St. Louis |
Saint Louis, MO | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 52% |
Located on a 470-acre campus and enrolling approximately 17,000 students each year, the University of Missouri-St. Louis hosts one of the best online bachelor's in history programs in the U.S. The program includes an internship component that provides valuable field experience, preparing candidates for career entry or further study. Students must complete at least 39 credits of history courses, covering topics like writing systems of the world, African history through fiction and film, and U.S. foreign relations and military history. Throughout the program, learners develop research methods to help them understand complex material. Applicants must provide official high school transcripts and ACT or SAT test scores. They must also satisfy specific prerequisites in English, mathematics, science, social studies, fine arts, and a foreign language. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in History DeliveryFormat: 100% online Admission RequirementsStandardized Tests: ACT or SAT Contact Phone: (314) 516-8669 |
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| 16 |
University of Nebraska Kearney |
Kearney, NE | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 58% |
An institution that holds regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, the University of Nebraska Kearney also offers one of the best online bachelor's in history programs. The 120-credit curriculum teaches participants important communication, critical thinking, reading, and writing skills, preparing learners for successful careers in history, law, education, and business. Boasting an entirely online format, this bachelor's in history program includes 45 credits of general education courses, nine credits of electives, six credits of a foreign language, 36 credits of major coursework, and 24 credits of advanced history electives. Prospective students must complete an online application and submit official high school transcripts. Candidates may qualify for several financial aid opportunities, including the Gene Hamaker Memorial Endowed Scholarship, which is reserved for history students. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in History DeliveryFormat: 100% online Admission RequirementsStandardized Tests: ACT or SAT Contact Phone: (308) 865-8927 |
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| 17 |
University of Maryland Global Campus |
Adelphi, MD | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 15% |
The University of Maryland Global Campus offers a fully online bachelor's in history program that cultivates strong critical thinking skills. Program graduates can pursue careers in law, politics, journalism, and education. The 120-credit curriculum includes 33 credits of major coursework, such as Western civilization, history of the United States since 1865, and historical methods. Students can select a focus area in U.S. history or European history. They can also pursue a minor in another academic subject. UMGC does not require applicants to provide ACT or SAT scores or meet a minimum GPA requirement. Prospective students must complete an online application and provide official high school transcripts. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in History DeliveryFormat: 100% online Contact Phone: (855) 655-8682 |
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| 18 |
University of Arizona |
Tucson, AZ | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 64% |
The University of Arizona maintains an online bachelor's in history program with an interdisciplinary focus that covers arts, humanities, and sciences. The curriculum includes uncommon courses such as games and play in medieval and early modern Europe; history of crime in American; and cuisine, culture, and power. All students complete a senior capstone project consisting of a research proposal, a rough draft, a research essay, a historiographic essay, a class presentation, and a final draft. Prospective students must complete an online application and submit official high school transcripts. However, students need not submit standardized test scores. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in History DeliveryFormat: 100% online Contact Phone: (520) 621-0898 |
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| 19 |
Pennsylvania State University |
University Park, PA | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 29% |
Pennsylvania State University offers extensive online learning opportunities through its World Campus, including an online bachelor's in history designed for students interested in cultivating a deeper knowledge and understanding of art, politics, religion, culture, and military. The 123-credit curriculum includes 18-30 credits of general electives, 36 credits of major coursework, 46 credits of general education coursework, and 18-30 credits of bachelor of arts electives. Learners in the program can explore a variety of course topics, such as recent American history, American environmental history, the Roman republic and empire, and an introduction to the Middle East. Applicants to the program must hold a high school diploma or GED certificate, but they are not required to submit ACT or SAT scores or meet a minimum GPA requirement as long as they provide official transcripts. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in History DeliveryFormat: 100% online Contact Phone: (814) 865-5403 |
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| 20 |
Bellevue University |
Bellevue, NE | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 0% |
Holding regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, Bellevue University offers a variety of online learning opportunities, including a flexible and convenient bachelor's in history program. The fully online format is well suited for working students and those with family obligations. Comprising 127 credits of coursework, the curriculum includes 30 credits of major coursework and 61 credit hours of elective coursework. Learners can choose from a variety of focus areas, such as American vision and values, world history, and American history. Applicants must hold a high school diploma or GED certificate and provide official transcripts. The university maintains several assistance programs for current and former military personnel. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Science in History DeliveryFormat: 100% online Contact Phone: (402) 293-2000 |
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| 21 |
Nicholls State University |
Thibodaux, LA | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 45% |
Nicholls State University offers degree-seekers the opportunity to earn one of the best online bachelor's in history degrees in the nation. The program provides flexibility and convenience for students while preparing learners for careers as teachers, archivists, journalists, and researchers In addition to coursework exploring the history of the Americas, Europe, and Asia, classes contain computer literacy and oral communication components. Students can also pursue an academic minor. The program encourages future graduate students to also take foreign language classes. Incoming first-year students must hold a minimum 2.0 GPA, submit official transcripts, and provide SAT or ACT test scores. All online learners pay the same tuition, regardless of residency. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in History DeliveryFormat: 100% online Admission Requirements GPA: 2.0 minimum Contact Phone: (985) 448-4610 |
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| 22 |
Westfield State University |
Westfield, MA | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 63% |
Founded in 1839 as a school for teachers, Westfield State University now offers an online bachelor's in history with a customizable format. The program is available entirely online, allowing learners to balance work, family, and school obligations. The curriculum covers topics like Jacksonian America, history of American popular culture, and contemporary Africa. Students can pursue 14-week courses or take accelerated, seven-week classes. They can also participate in multiple intensive opportunities on campus to expedite graduation. Learners who enroll in the accelerated option can earn their bachelor's degree in three years or less. The university provides a variety of scholarship opportunities, including the Tsongas scholarship and merit awards. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in History Delivery Format: 100% online or hybrid (online/on campus) Admission Requirements GPA: 2.0 minimum Contact Phone: (413) 572-5300 |
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| 23 |
King University |
Bristol, TN | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 46% |
The online bachelor's in history program at King University teaches learners the skills and knowledge of history they need to pursue careers as teachers, researchers, archivists, and information managers. The 124-credit curriculum offers a holistic approach to the history discipline and includes classes like Europe and the Great Wars, the United States to 1877, and cultures in contact. Students gain skills related to critical thinking, communication, and research and inquiry. The program also provides the core history knowledge needed to gain grades 6-12 teacher certification. Applicants must hold a minimum 2.6 high school GPA and have completed two units of history and two units of history and social science. The university holds regional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Science in History Delivery Format: 100% online Admission RequirementsGPA: 2.6 minimum Contact Phone: (888) 511-0742 |
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| 24 |
University of North Alabama |
Florence, AL | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 46% |
The oldest four-year institution in the state, the University of North Alabama maintains an online bachelor's in history program that offers bachelor of arts and bachelor of science opportunities. Both options are fully online. However, students seeking peer interaction can also participate in an annual history colloquium on campus. Students must complete 120 credits of coursework to earn their bachelor's degree in history. The curriculum includes 41 credits of general education courses, six credits of a foreign language, and 36 credits of history core classes. Course topics include classes like ancient Greece, law and society in early America, the age of discovery, and historical archaeology. All candidates must declare a minor or a second major. Prospective students must submit ACT or SAT scores and official high school transcripts. Those with a high school GPA below 2.25 may be eligible for conditional admission. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts or Science in history DeliveryFormat: 100% online Admission Requirements GPA: 2.25 minimum Contact Phone: (256) 765-4306 |
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| 25 |
Ottawa University |
Ottawa, KS | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 46% |
Ottawa University is a Christian school with a main campus located in eastern Kansas. In addition to locations in Arizona, Indiana, and Wisconsin, the school offers many opportunities for distance learners. OU oversees more than 25 online programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, including an online bachelor of arts in history. History majors complete a total of 124 credits, taking classes like global issues in a historical perspective, American women's history, and world regional geography. Aspiring teachers can also pursue a secondary education concentration. Faculty deliver online coursework in eight-week sessions through the Blackboard learning management system. Individuals interested in enrolling at OU should contact an enrollment advisor to schedule a college advisory session. Applicants must submit official transcripts from prior institutions, including high school. Transfer students can bring up to 80 eligible credits into this program. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in History Delivery Format: 100% online Contact Phone: (855) 774-7714 |
Online Bachelor's in History Program Overview
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. Students study Asian, Latin American, African, and Western civilizations. 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 tailor their education by taking concentrations in subjects of American history or military history.
Programs include courses like world civilizations and prehistory. Graduates find careers immediately after finishing the program as museum technicians, high school teachers, and researchers. Careers like librarians, professors, and historians require a minimum of a master's degree.
Common Bachelor's in History Degree Courses
- History of Western Civilization
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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.
Online Bachelor's in History Admission Requirements
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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.
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Transcripts
During the application process, students need to submit hardcopy or digital transcripts that show their grades for all college credits. Students most likely need to pay a transcript request fee. In some instances, colleges accept unofficial transcripts with the application, and then students later submit official transcripts upon acceptance. Admissions may handle acquiring transcripts for students in some cases.
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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.
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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.
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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 application asks for a student's, or their parents', financial information. The financial aid office determines how much aid to give each student based on their FAFSA.
Online Bachelor's in History Career Paths
A bachelor's in history prepares graduates for numerous potential pathways. Students 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 find careers in high schools, colleges, libraries, or museums. These positions do not require a license or certification. Any positions higher than entry-level — such as professor, curator, or historian — generally require a master's.
Related Careers
Frequently Asked Questions
- What can you do with a bachelor's degree in history?
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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. A bachelor's degree also satisfies requirements to work as a researcher or museum technician.
- Is a history degree a BA or BS?
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Colleges may offer both an online bachelor of arts in history and an online bachelor of science in history. An online bachelor's in history gives students a foundation in the humanities, whereas a bachelor's in science gives them a concentration in the sciences.
- How much do history majors make?
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History majors earn different salaries depending on their experience and skills. Archivists, curators, and museum workers make a median annual salary of $48,400 as of May 2018, according to the BLS.
- Where do historians work?
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History majors receive a diverse education that prepares them to work in many different occupations. Historians work in museums, schools, and government agencies. Museum technicians may work in cultural centers or museums. Graduates 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?
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Students enrolled in a bachelor's in history program strengthen their research, communication, and critical-thinking skills. They take classes in East Asian civilization, American history, Western civilization, modern world history, and often finish off their program with a senior capstone.
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