Online History Degrees
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Affordable History Degrees Online
By preserving the past, society can learn from history’s achievements and successes. Many professionals dedicate their lives to uncovering new information about past events and educating others on their findings.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the need for historians to increase by 3% between 2019-2029. Individuals in this occupation enjoy a median annual salary of $63,680. However, a history graduates can work in other professions with even higher job outlooks and comparable salaries. The BLS projects the need for archivists, curators, and museum workers to increase by 11% through 2029, and these professionals earn a median annual salary of $49,850.
To qualify for admittance to an online history degree, individuals must submit an application, fee, and official transcripts. More advanced degrees may require an essay or interview. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of earning a history degree online, additional requirements for this degree, and scholarships for history students.
Questions to Help Deciding on Earning a History Degree
What kinds of jobs can you get with a history degree?
Graduates with a history degree pursue careers as museum archivists, historians, researchers, professors, and historical writers. Some of these positions require a master’s degree or doctorate.
What kinds of history degrees are there?
Individuals can earn an associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate in history. Specific programs let students select a concentration or minor.
What kinds of jobs can you get with a history degree?
Graduates with a history degree pursue careers as museum archivists, historians, researchers, professors, and historical writers. Some of these positions require a master’s degree or doctorate.
Do history majors make good money?
According to the BLS, historians earn a median salary of $63,680. This compares as much higher than $39,810, the median for all occupations.
Is majoring in history worth it?
Individuals with a passion for studying the past and preserving history often enjoy this career. With a projected job outlook of 3% between 2019-2029, job availability seems promising.
Featured Online Programs for Students
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
What Are the Goals of a History Degree?
A history degree prepares graduates to enter the workforce. Many historians work for the federal or local government. History graduates employed as archivists work in museums. Historical educators work at public and private schools, colleges, and universities.
Online history degrees usually list their program outcomes on their websites. Before enrolling, learners should ensure the results align with their career goals. For example, some history programs only focus on one country’s history, such as U.S. history. Other programs take a different approach and focus on one aspect of history, such as government or art.
Why Get a History Degree?
Pursuing higher education requires several years, hard work, and money. However, it comes with benefits. Here, we discuss the five main perks of earning an online history degree.
- 1
Online Learning Offers Flexibility
Students who want to gain real-world experience through part-time jobs and internships benefit from online learning. An asynchronous online program allows students to watch prerecorded lectures and complete assignments during their free time. - 2
Job Satisfaction
Individuals with a passion for educating and preserving the past usually enjoy working as historians and researchers. Individuals who love their profession find pleasure in working hard toward promotions. - 3
Online Learning Makes a Degree More Affordable
Many schools offer reduced tuition for virtual learners. Online enrollees save money on campus maintenance fees and commuting costs. - 4
Variety of Career Paths
History degree graduates can apply for more than one type of job. Individuals also switch to a different, but similar, career with this degree. - 5
Promising Job Outlook
To learn about the projected job outlook for various history-related jobs, refer to the Career and Salary Outlook for History Majors section. Note that all the percentages listed in the chart indicate either average or faster than average job growth.
What Are the Requirements for a History Degree?
When applying to history programs, individuals should gather their official transcripts and current resume. Competitive history programs usually require a statement of purpose and recommendation letters from previous educators.
Once a student earns admittance to a program, they must maintain a certain GPA and complete courses and projects. Most programs require a portfolio review, thesis, or capstone project — due during the final semester.
Associate and master’s degrees take full-time learners about two years to complete. Bachelor’s and doctoral degrees in history usually require four years of full-time study. Most programs include courses focusing on specific periods and geographical locations.
Career and Salary Outlook for History Majors
History majors pursue many careers. This versatile degree covers several topics, producing graduates qualified to become teachers, professors, museum professionals, and historians. In this section, we discuss these careers and the primary job responsibilities for each. The table displays the median annual salaries and projected growth rates for these positions.
Archivist, Curator, and Museum Worker
These professionals oversee museums’ historical collections. They select artifacts and artwork that tell a complete story together. Historic sites, colleges, and corporations also hire these professionals. Most archivists, curators, and museum workers need at least a master’s degree to practice.High School Teacher
High school teachers instruct students in grades 9-12. These teachers prepare students to either enter the workforce or attend a trade school or college following graduation. High school teachers possess teaching certification for 1-2 topics, such as history, mathematics, or English.Historian
These professionals research historical events and analyze their findings. They share historical discoveries through writings and presentations. In 2019, about 3,500 historians maintained employment in the United States. During this same year, 22% of historians worked for the federal government.Postsecondary Teacher
Postsecondary teachers work at colleges and universities. Some postsecondary institutions require only a master’s degree, but competitive positions require a doctorate. These professionals give lectures, assign readings, and grade essays to educate the next generation of professionals. Postsecondary teachers also advise students on reaching their career goals.
| Career | Median Annual Salary | Projected Growth Rate (2019-2029) |
|---|---|---|
| Archivist, Curator, and Museum Worker | $49,850 | 11% |
| High School Teacher | $61,660 | 4% |
| Historian | $63,680 | 3% |
| Postsecondary Teacher | $79,540 | 9% |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Cheapest Online History Degrees
University of Louisiana at Monroe
- Monroe, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
A top-ranked program, the online history degree is offered by University of Louisiana at Monroe. Degree-seekers take classes online and in-person at the public institution. The bachelor of arts in history provides a flexible pathway to entry-level history careers.
The online learning format appeals to busy students who benefit from flexibility in their schedule. The program's major courses and general education requirements strengthen analytical and critical thinking skills. Majors work closely with faculty advisors to customize their course of study. The school supports online students through academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
In addition to scholarships, distance learners may qualify for federal financial aid programs like the Pell Grant.
University of Louisiana at Monroe Fast Facts:
Online Student Enrollment: 3,756
Online Bachelor's Programs: 14
Online Master's Programs: 16
Admission Rate: 80%
Graduation Rate: 47%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
43%
$ 5,788
73%
$17,888
- Acceptance Rate
- 80%
- Students Enrolled
- 8,673
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The University of Central Florida, located in Orlando, offers many top-ranked online programs, including a history degree. At the public institution, students choose from in-person and online courses. With a BA in history, professionals pursue entry-level roles in diverse fields.
Busy students and working professionals benefit from the program's flexible learning format. Online history courses focus on discipline-specific knowledge and skills. Students work with faculty advisors to craft an individualized degree plan based on their interests and career goals. Academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services support allow online students to meet their educational goals.
Online learners qualify for federal financial aid programs, including the Pell Grant.
University of Central Florida Numbers:
Online Student Enrollment: 41,097
Online Bachelor's Programs: 19
Online Master's Programs: 26
Admission Rate: 44%
Graduation Rate: 72%
Offers Transfer Credits: No
59%
$ 4,478
91%
$19,810
- Acceptance Rate
- 44%
- Students Enrolled
- 69,402
- Institution Type
- Public
Florida International University
- Miami, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Located in Miami, Florida International University offers a top-ranked online history degree. Degree-seekers take classes online and in-person at the public institution. The bachelor of arts in history provides a flexible pathway to entry-level history careers.
Busy students benefit from the program's distance learning format, which makes it easier to balance school with other responsibilities. The program's major courses and general education requirements strengthen analytical and critical thinking skills. Faculty advisors help learners build a degree plan to customize their course of study. Academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services support allow online students to meet their educational goals.
Distance learners may qualify for scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid, like the Pell Grant.
Florida International University Numbers:
Online Student Enrollment: 39,863
Online Bachelor's Programs: 36
Online Master's Programs: 31
Admission Rate: 58%
Graduation Rate: 63%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
68%
$ 4,721
89%
$16,529
- Acceptance Rate
- 58%
- Students Enrolled
- 58,711
- Institution Type
- Public
Eastern New Mexico University
- Portales, NM
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
From its Portales campus, Eastern New Mexico University offers multiple online degrees, including a top-ranked online history degree. At the public institution, degree-seekers take classes in person and online. The bachelor's in history builds the skills and knowledge required for history careers.
Busy students and working professionals benefit from the program's flexible learning format. During an online history program, learners build career-ready knowledge and skills. Majors work closely with faculty advisors to customize their course of study. The school's online student services include experiential learning opportunities, academic advising, and career counseling.
Distance learners can pay for their degree with scholarships, grants, and loans.
Eastern New Mexico University Facts:
Online Student Enrollment: 3,946
Online Bachelor's Programs: 18
Online Master's Programs: 7
Admission Rate: 58%
Graduation Rate: 36%
Transfer Credits Allowed: No
69%
$3,996
63%
$5,994
- Acceptance Rate
- 58%
- Students Enrolled
- 5,685
- Institution Type
- Public
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
- Natchitoches, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Northwestern State University of Louisiana is a leader in online learning. Students complete online history coursework in a flexible learning environment. The school's admission rate is 82%, and its admission yield rate is 46%.
Students can transfer credits to finish bachelor’s degrees in 18-36 months. Online learners pay $5,180 for in-state tuition for bachelor’s degrees. Working professionals complete online master’s degrees in two years on average. Doctoral degrees can take more than four years to complete. Enrollees pursuing a graduate degree pay $5,738 in in-state tuition. Enrollees pay for their education with an average aid package of $10,000.
The school's bachelor's programs rank among the best in the nation for quality and affordability. Enrollees receive access to support services to help them succeed. Students can pursue peer tutoring to excel in their classes. Northwestern State University of Louisiana is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
82%
$ 5,180
70%
$15,968
- Acceptance Rate
- 82%
- Students Enrolled
- 10,900
- Institution Type
- Public
Sam Houston State University
- Huntsville, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
A public postsecondary institution, Sam Houston State University is one of the best online schools in the country. The online history program features a flexible learning environment. The school typically admits 83% of student applicants, and 30% of students choose to enroll.
Online students can transfer credits to complete a bachelor’s in 18-36 months. Online learners pay an in-state tuition rate of $5,856 for bachelor’s degrees. Online learners typically complete master's programs in two years. Finishing a doctoral degree typically takes four or more years. Students interested in a graduate degree pay $5,765 for in-state tuition. An average aid package of $9,014 helps students pay for tuition. The institution reports that 86% of learners receive financial aid and 53% take out loans.
While completing their program, degree-seekers gain the knowledge and skills necessary to secure roles in their field. Earning a minor can make graduates more competitive for specialized positions. Students watch lectures and complete assignments at convenient times. Learners complete 120 credits for a bachelor’s degree. The school has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
53%
$ 5,856
75%
$15,984
- Acceptance Rate
- 83%
- Students Enrolled
- 21,558
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Nebraska at Kearney
- Kearney, NE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The University of Nebraska at Kearney enrolls students in an online history program, one of the best of its kind. To meet the needs of a variety of students, the public institution offers in-person and online courses. The bachelor's in history uses a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes career-ready knowledge and skills.
Busy students benefit from the program's distance learning format, which makes it easier to balance school with other responsibilities. During the online history program, learners gain career-focused knowledge and skills. Faculty advisors recommend a custom degree plan to meet each student's interests and career goals. Academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services help degree-seekers complete the program and transition into the workforce.
Distance learners may qualify for scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid like the Pell Grant.
University of Nebraska at Kearney Numbers:
Online Student Enrollment: 4,095
Online Bachelor's Programs: 9
Online Master's Programs: 14
Admission Rate: 85%
Graduation Rate: 56%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
65%
$ 6,090
77%
$13,290
- Acceptance Rate
- 85%
- Students Enrolled
- 6,279
- Institution Type
- Public
Arizona State University
- Scottsdale, AZ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Located in Scottsdale, Arizona State University enrolls students in many online programs, including its online history program. The public institution offers a variety of enrollment options, including online and in-person programs. In the bachelor's in history program, majors gain the knowledge and skills required for history careers.
Busy students benefit from the program's distance learning format, which makes it easier to balance school with other responsibilities. During an online history program, learners take courses that build in-demand knowledge and skills. Students work with faculty advisors to craft an individualized degree plan based on their interests and career goals. Academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services help distance learners reach their academic goals.
Distance learners may qualify for scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid like the Pell Grant.
Arizona State University Numbers:
Online Student Enrollment: 44,167
Online Bachelor's Programs: 54
Online Master's Programs: 48
Admission Rate: 64%
Graduation Rate: 4%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
98%
$ 8,867
74%
$19,282
- Acceptance Rate
- 64%
- Students Enrolled
- 45,073
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Missouri-St. Louis
- Saint Louis, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The University of Missouri-St. Louis's 147 academic programs include in-person and online options. Online learners complete history coursework in a flexible learning environment. The school maintains a 73% admission rate.
University of Missouri-St. Louis Facts:
Tuition for Undergrad Students: $11,079 in-state; $29,295 out-of-state
Average Aid Per Learner: $13,354
Average Price With Financial Aid: $7,977
Percent of Undergrads Who Graduate: 52%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Prospective students submit school transcripts for admission. Students can also learn about support services such as tutoring and career services. The school’s website provides details about how to earn credit for experiential learning. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
32%
$11,079
77%
$29,295
- Acceptance Rate
- 73%
- Students Enrolled
- 15,988
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Arizona
- Tucson, AZ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Students at University of Arizona can pursue 494 academic programs, including in-person and online options. Students complete online history coursework in a flexible learning environment. The school's admission rate for new students is 85%.
Students transfer credits to finish bachelor’s degrees in 18-36 months. The school’s in-state tuition rate for bachelor’s degrees is $10,990. Distance learners can finish a master’s degree in two years. To complete a doctoral degree, students usually need four or more years. Learners pay an $11,938 in-state tuition rate for graduate degrees. The school’s average aid package of $11,157 helps learners pay for their degree. Per credit, students pay an average of $1,050.
Applicants must send school transcripts to admissions. Students can access support services such as tutoring online and in person. The school’s website provides more information about how learners can pursue these options. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting body.
42%
$10,990
83%
$33,273
- Acceptance Rate
- 85%
- Students Enrolled
- 44,577
- Institution Type
- Public
Featured Online Programs for Students
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
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