Online Master’s In History Programs 2022
A master's degree in history can lead to new and exciting career opportunities. Here, we list the top online programs.
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Historians play a vital role in keeping stories and lessons from the past alive. In fact, many historians also uncover new truths about important figures and events. Individuals with a passion for preserving the past might consider earning a history degree.
Some of the highest paying jobs in this field require a graduate degree. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports historians typically need at least a master's degree to practice. BLS data show these individuals earn a median annual salary of $63,100. The BLS projects the need for this career to grow 3% between 2019-2029.
Online history master's degrees take full-time learners about two years and part-time learners about four years to complete. Keep reading to learn about the top master's-level online history degrees, outlook for history degree jobs, and scholarships for history majors.
Question to Further Education as a History Major
According to the BLS, historians earn a median $63,100 annually. Factors such as years of experience, employer type, and location impact pay.
Historians earn more than the median annual wage for all occupations, $41,950. Individuals who love history typically find earning a history degree worth it from a salary and job satisfaction perspective.
History degree jobs for individuals with an advanced degree include historians for museums or the local government. Other historians become teachers or professors.
The BLS projects the need for historians to grow 3% between 2019-2029, as fast as average for all occupations.
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Featured Online Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Why Get a Degree in History?
Individuals can benefit from earning a history degree in many ways. Choosing a personally interesting major may lead to higher job satisfaction. A history master's degree gives individuals more freedom in job choices by qualifying them for various careers. Some historians may enjoy working as a teacher or professor with summers off. Others may find higher job satisfaction working at a museum.
Pursuing an online history degree comes with additional benefits. Flexible online learning allows students to continue working while they study. Online learners typically avoid paying extra student activity fees, room and board charges, and commuting costs. In the next section, we discuss an online history degree's price more in depth.
How Much Does a History Degree Cost?
National Center for Education Statistics data show average graduate tuition and required fees totaled $19,314 for the 2018-19 school year. However, tuition at public schools during the same period cost much less at $12,171. While accredited public institutions typically feature larger class sizes, students still acquire quality education from these schools.
As mentioned in the previous section, an online history degree may cost less than an in-person degree. Some colleges and universities charge a lower tuition rate for distance courses. Additionally, relocating for college costs a significant amount of money.
History degrees do not typically require lab fees except for concentrations or minors in topics like archeology. Online learners mainly need to budget for wifi, a reliable laptop, and textbooks to complete their studies.
How Much Do History Majors Make?
The exact salary for history majors varies based on multiple factors, but the BLS gives a baseline. The median pay for history majors measures at $63,100, but this exact figure fluctuates. The lowest 10% of earners receive median annual salaries under $29,540, while the highest 10% benefit from yearly salaries over $116,340.
Earning an advanced degree like a master's or doctorate qualifies historians for higher-paying history degree jobs. The same goes for pursuing certificates and licenses. To learn how employer type and job location impact salary, consider looking at current job postings. For example, a government job in a large east coast city may pay more than a midwest education job.
Years of experience significantly impacts pay. February 2021 PayScale data reports historians with 1-4 years of experience earning an average total compensation around $44,000. Professionals in the same field with more than 20 years of experience report an average salary of about $75,000.
Courses in History
The exact curriculum for history majors varies because history covers a vast array of topics. Many schools allow learners to select a concentration or minor to become an expert in a specific history topic. Most online history master's degrees require a thesis to prove a historical theory or contribute new research. A thesis takes several semesters to write, and a board of professors typically reviews the writing to determine a pass or fail.
Through their studies, history majors hone their critical thinking, writing, and research skills. In this section, we highlight three example courses often included in an online history degree.
The course goes beyond a typical undergraduate U.S. history course. In the class, students analyze the historical events that led to the nation's independence and government formation. Learners discuss these events' modern implications and read primary sources. The primary sources include personal journals and papers written in the 1700s.A Critical Discussion of the United States Before 1776
An online history degree typically requires multiple courses on world history. A world history course may focus on one region or topic, like European history or the history of governments worldwide. Regardless of the specific topic, a master's course goes beyond teaching basic facts such as dates and names. This class requires learners to think critically about past events and even question the accuracy of some statements.A Critical Discussion of World History
Historians often contest other professionals' claims to arrive at accurate accounts of past events. This course prepares the next generation of historians to think critically about claims using a series of methods. Learners engage in discussions about the philosophy of why historians interpret and investigate the past.History's Methods and Philosophy
Certifications and Licensure for History
Historians often pursue certifications and licensure to demonstrate their expertise or pursue raises. These achievements typically require on-the-job experience and a series of tests. Unlike an academic certificate, a certification does not require traditional coursework including essays or class discussions. Below, we highlight three common certifications and licenses for historical professionals.
Scholarships for History
Scholarships make pursuing an online history degree more affordable. However, scholarships usually feature competitive applicant pools. To increase chances of earning one, students should focus their search on awards for graduate history students. To aid in the search, we highlight three scholarships and the corresponding qualifications below.
| Scholarship | Amount | Who Can Apply |
|---|---|---|
Abraham Lincoln Brigade Archives George Watt Memorial Essay |
Up to $1,000 | Graduate students may submit an essay or thesis chapter about any aspect of the Spanish Civil War to qualify. A scholarship committee judges the submissions based on originality, the argument's quality, and overall presentation. |
American Society for Eighteenth-Century Studies Fellowships |
Varies | Graduate students working on their dissertations may apply for these fellowships. The American Society for Eighteenth-Century Studies partners with libraries nationwide to offer monetary assistance to students researching 18th century history. |
Daughters of the American Revolution Centennial Scholarship |
$2,500 | Learners studying historic preservation at a U.S. college or university may qualify for the scholarship. Only graduate students may apply. |
Online Master's in History Programs 2022
#1
Sam Houston State University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Huntsville, Texas |
| Admission Rate | 83% |
| Graduation Rate | 54% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
53%
|
Learners at Sam Houston State University can enroll in a variety of top-ranked academic programs, including an online master of arts in history. Of the public institution's students, 11,475 attend classes in an online format, while others attend classes in person at the Huntsville, Texas, campus. Many online programs feature flexible scheduling options, which can make earning a degree easier for busy learners balancing academics with personal obligations.
The rigorous curriculum fosters specialized and transferable skills, which degree-seekers refine while fulfilling major requirements. Students can customize the curriculum based on their interests and professional goals. The flexible program emphasizes industry knowledge. Master's graduates can apply for positions in the field or advance their current career. The institution offers career services, which can benefit current master's students and alumni.
To help learners explore their funding options and plan their future, the school delivers career advising and financial aid counseling. The school's affordable tuition rates make it easier for learners to pursue graduate degrees. Students can research additional financial aid options, including private scholarships and fellowships. The amount enrollees pay per credit on average is currently unknown.
#2
Missouri State University-Springfield
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Springfield, Missouri |
| Admission Rate | 88% |
| Graduation Rate | 56% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
39%
|
Missouri State University-Springfield enrolls students in an online master's in history program. The institution enrolls 6,699 online enrollees. The accredited history program offers a rigorous education valued by employers. The program's advanced training prepares graduates for history careers. The school offers a student-to-faculty ratio of 20-to-1, giving degree-seekers one-on-one attention from faculty.
Prospective students can learn more about online support services at the college's website. The distance learning program charges affordable tuition rates and offers financial aid. This makes the master's degree an affordable option for learners on a budget. Students can expect a graduation rate of 56% for this program.
Missouri State University-Springfield Fast Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 9,079
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 28
Graduate Tuition: $5,202 per year in-state, $10,476 per year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,648
Average Net Price: $16,134
Missouri State University-Springfield is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting agency.
#3
Jackson State University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Jackson, Mississippi |
| Admission Rate | 68% |
| Graduation Rate | 38% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
61%
|
With a main campus in Jackson, Mississippi, Jackson State University delivers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields. The institution's online master's in history appeals to students interested in history careers.
The master's program features rigorous coursework as well as access to faculty and career advising. Working professionals who enroll in the online history program can complete academic requirements around their schedule. Degree-seekers enrolled full time typically need 1-2 years to graduate.
At the accredited institution, graduate students qualify for federal aid programs and other forms of financial aid. Of the school's enrollees, 79% use student loans to pay for their education. In addition, the institution reports that 98% of its learners obtain financial aid to fund their education.
Jackson State University at a Glance:
Total Programs: 93
Number of Online Programs: 16
Online Master's Programs: 34
Number of Online Students: 4,286
Average Per-Credit Fee: Not Known
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
#4
University of Nebraska at Kearney
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Kearney, Nebraska |
| Admission Rate | 85% |
| Graduation Rate | 56% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
65%
|
Learners at University of Nebraska at Kearney can enroll in a variety of top-ranked academic programs, including an online master of arts in history. The public institution's student population includes on-campus degree-seekers and 4,095 online students. Online programs' scheduling flexibility is ideal for learners balancing academics with personal and professional obligations.
The rigorous curriculum helps degree-seekers develop foundational knowledge in the field. Students can customize the curriculum based on their interests and professional goals. The online program prioritizes flexibility and career preparation. Graduates can transition to a history career or advance their current career in the field after earning their master's degree. The institution offers career services, which can benefit current master's students and alumni.
Enrollees can access support services including career advising and financial aid counseling to ensure they choose the best academic and professional tracks. Graduate students at the accredited institution can take out federal loans to cover costs. Learners often apply for fellowships to fund their graduate education. The institution's cost per credit is unknown.
#5
Wayland Baptist University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Plainview, Texas |
| Admission Rate | 97% |
| Graduation Rate | 23% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
61%
|
Wayland Baptist University enrolls 1,211 students from Texas and other states. Graduate students can earn their master's in history at the college. The accredited curriculum provides a rigorous course of study valued by employers. The degree offers the chance for students to develop advanced skills and training for history careers.
The university reports a student-to-faculty ratio of 6-to-1, giving degree candidates one-on-one time with faculty. Students can learn more about online support services at the school's website. Graduate students pay affordable tuition rates and receive financial aid. This helps students afford the master's degree with less debt. Enrollees can expect a 23% graduation rate at the university.
Wayland Baptist University Numbers:
Total Online Enrollment: 2,485
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 10
Graduate Tuition: $13,104 per year in-state, $13,104 per year out-of-state
The school holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#6
Southwestern Assemblies of God University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Waxahachie, Texas |
| Admission Rate | 88% |
| Graduation Rate | 45% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
70%
|
Southwestern Assemblies of God University offers accessible, affordable online programs. Located in Waxahachie, Texas, the private institution's 60 online programs include 16 master's-level options. The school's academic offerings include a master's in history. Busy students balancing academics with personal obligations often benefit from the online history program's flexible scheduling and enrollment options.
Distance learners take graduate-level classes. Students prepare for specialized careers and gain theoretical and practical knowledge during experiential learning opportunities. Most graduate degree-seekers can finish the master's program in 1-2 years of full-time study. Prospective applicants can contact an admissions advisor for details about application deadlines and requirements.
The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates and offers institutional funding for eligible applicants. Graduate tuition rates at the institution average $10,710 for in-state students and $10,710 for out-of-state learners. Enrollees with financial need can fund their education through federal grants and loans. The school reports that 98% of degree-seekers receive financial aid.
#7
Indiana State University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Terre Haute, Indiana |
| Admission Rate | 90% |
| Graduation Rate | 41% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
47%
|
Based in Terre Haute, Indiana State University educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers on campus and online. Busy learners can enroll in a master of arts in history program, which the public institution delivers in a convenient online format. Ideal for working professionals, the flexible program qualifies graduates for advanced history positions.
Degree candidates work with faculty advisors who provide advice and insights into the history field. The program's rigorous curriculum helps enrollees develop foundational knowledge and specialized skills in the field. Coursework emphasizes industry-specific analytical and leadership skills.
Learners pursuing online graduate programs benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates. Degree-seekers can discuss funding options, including grants and fellowships, with qualified financial aid counselors. Learners benefit from affordable tuition rates and institutional funding, which can reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Indiana State University Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 45
Total Online Programs: 60
Number of Online Students: 5,748
Average Fee Per Credit: Not Known
Graduate Tuition In-State: $7,542
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $14,814
Offers Transfer Credits: No
#8
University of North Alabama
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Florence, Alabama |
| Admission Rate | 89% |
| Graduation Rate | 49% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
66%
|
Florence-based University of North Alabama educates graduate degree-seekers online and on campus. The public institution delivers online master's programs for distance learners. The flexible master of arts in history is ideal for students who want to earn an affordable history degree.
Master's students begin the online program by completing core courses that explore important history principles. The curriculum also features upper-level coursework exploring advanced history topics. Faculty members provide mentorship, and students can pursue experiential learning opportunities to prepare for careers.
Graduates with a master's in history can pursue leadership roles. The institution's career counselors help degree-seekers prepare to secure professional roles after graduation.
Data on the school's average cost per credit is unavailable. Degree-seekers with financial need can apply for federal aid, including grants and loans. Learners can reduce out-of-pocket costs by applying for grants, scholarships, and fellowships. Of the school's graduate students, 96% obtain financial aid to pay for their degree.
#9
University of North Carolina Wilmington
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Wilmington, North Carolina |
| Admission Rate | 65% |
| Graduation Rate | 72% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
49%
|
Distance learners can pursue high-quality online graduate programs from University of North Carolina Wilmington. The public institution delivers 31 online programs, including 16 master's programs for distance students. Degree-seekers can enroll in a variety of master's programs, including a master of history. The online program is ideal for students with busy schedules.
Learners take core courses and advanced history classes. Specialized electives and experiential learning opportunities allow students to customize the program based on their goals and interests. Master's degree-seekers typically graduate with their history degree in 1-2 years. Prospective applicants should reach out to the program to learn more about admission standards and deadlines.
Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates. The institution charges North Carolina residents an average tuition of $4,719. Out-of-state students pay an average of $18,548. Enrollees may qualify for federal financial aid programs. Of the school's students, 72% receive financial aid.
#10
Western Kentucky University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Bowling Green, Kentucky |
| Admission Rate | 97% |
| Graduation Rate | 48% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
41%
|
Located in Bowling Green, Western Kentucky University delivers educational programs online and in person. Experts in the field teach graduate students in the accredited master of arts in history program. The school may consider entrance scores in the application process. The institution offers advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff for online learners. The virtual classroom setting lets degree-seekers interact with faculty and peers.
The amount students pay per credit is unknown at this time. According to the institution, 98% of enrollees receive financial aid and 41% take out loans. In addition to this online history program, Western Kentucky University offers 26 other master's degrees.
Western Kentucky University Fast Facts:
Total Number of Online Students: 7,468
Distance Learning Master's Programs: 27
Graduate Tuition Rate: $12,140 in-state; $18,340 out-of-state
Average Total Aid Per Student: $8,272
Average Cost With Aid: $12,174
Western Kentucky University has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, an independent accrediting agency.
#11
University of Memphis
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Memphis, Tennessee |
| Admission Rate | 85% |
| Graduation Rate | 53% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
44%
|
University of Memphis is a leader in online learning. Students learn from experts during the master of arts in history program, which uses a rigorous curriculum. Degree-seekers can use college admissions tests to strengthen their application. The school provides advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff to help distance learners. In online courses, enrollees interact with faculty and peers in a virtual classroom setting.
Since the institution holds accreditation, it can distribute federal financial aid. In addition to this online history program, University of Memphis offers 15 other master's degrees.
University of Memphis Fast Facts:
Enrolled Online Students: 9,456
Online Master's Program Offerings: 16
Grad School Tuition: $9,216 in-state; $12,672 out-of-state
Average Aid Per Learner: $9,424
Average Cost With Aid: $13,481
The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
#12
Pittsburg State University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Pittsburg, Kansas |
| Admission Rate | 96% |
| Graduation Rate | 52% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
47%
|
Distance learners can enroll at Pittsburg State University to pursue a master's in history. Based in Pittsburg, Kansas, the public institution enrolls 3,121 online students. Online classes are ideal for degree-seekers with busy schedules.
The program features a rigorous curriculum and meets high academic standards. Graduate students consult with faculty mentors to select classes aligning with their interests and career goals. The online program emphasizes field-specific skills and knowledge. Learners currently employed in the history field can pursue promotions or raises after earning their master's degree. The institution offers career services to help students and alumni succeed in the workforce.
Degree candidates can access support services including career advising and financial aid counseling. The school supports online learners through affordable tuition rates and institutional funding. Learners who need additional funding can secure private scholarships and institutional fellowships. The amount students pay per credit on average is unknown.
#13
Louisiana Tech University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Ruston, Louisiana |
| Admission Rate | 64% |
| Graduation Rate | 60% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
17%
|
Louisiana Tech University's academic offerings include high-quality online undergraduate and graduate programs. The public institution's academic offerings include eight online master's programs. The school delivers a master's in history for graduate degree-seekers. The program's scheduling flexibility is ideal for students balancing academics with personal and professional obligations.
Degree-seekers gain specialized knowledge during advanced classes. Specialized electives and experiential learning opportunities allow students to customize the program based on their goals and interests. Enrollees typically need 1-2 years to earn their history master's degree. Admissions advisors provide prospective learners with program-specific application details.
The school supports online learners through affordable tuition rates and institutional funding. Louisiana residents pay an average graduate tuition rate of $6,592 at the institution. Out-of-state graduate students pay an average of $13,333 in tuition. Many enrollees use financial aid to pay for their master's degree. The school reports that 98% of students receive financial aid.
#14
University of Louisiana at Monroe
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Monroe, Louisiana |
| Admission Rate | 80% |
| Graduation Rate | 47% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
43%
|
The University of Louisiana at Monroe offers in-person and online graduate programs. Busy learners can pursue the public institution's online master of arts in history. The flexible program offers affordable tuition rates and allows students to work while earning their history degree.
During the first year of the program, master's students take core classes in history. The curriculum also includes advanced courses covering in-depth history topics. Graduate students can receive practical training through experiential learning opportunities and faculty mentorship.
A master's in history can lead to leadership roles, which often pay higher salaries. Master's students and alumni can work with faculty advisors and career counselors.
The school's cost per credit is unknown. The institution holds accreditation, which means degree-seekers with financial need can qualify for federal grants and loans. Learners can reduce out-of-pocket costs by applying for grants, scholarships, and fellowships. At the school, 98% of students obtain financial aid to pay for their degree.
#15
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania |
| Admission Rate | 71% |
| Graduation Rate | 68% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
33%
|
Based in Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania, Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania offers undergraduate and graduate programs. The public institution delivers an online master of arts in history, which is ideal for busy learners. Master's graduates can apply for positions in the field or advance their current career.
Degree candidates work with faculty advisors who provide advice and insights into the history field. Enrollees complete a rigorous curriculum and gain field-specific training. Along with core history knowledge, coursework emphasizes analytical and leadership skills applicable to roles in the industry.
Learners pursuing their master's degree online benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding. Graduate degree-seekers can explore funding options with the help of the institution's financial aid counselors. Online learners benefit from affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce their financial burden.
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania at a Glance:
Online Master's Programs: 21
Total Online Programs: 21
Number of Online Students: 2,937
Per-Credit Cost: Unavailable
Graduate Tuition In-State: $9,288
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $13,932
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
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