Online Master’s in History
Nikita Nath
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WebsiteNikita is a psychologist working primarily with children using a child rights-based approach. She also writes content for various websites and blogs on diverse topics, focusing primarily on academia. Her hobbies include traveling, reading, and discovering different coffee-making techniques.
Degrees
Bachelors in English, Journalism, and Psychology; Masters in psychology with clinical specialization
nikitanath8@gmail.com
nikitanath8@gmail.comAreas of Expertise & Credentials
- 2 years of experience working as a content writer with various start-ups
- 1 year of experience working as a child psychologist with Insight
- Working on various projects of inclusion for neurodivergent children
- 2+ years of experience teaching psychology online
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The online master’s in history degree can help students better understand the process of “creating” history by analyzing historical studies, defending the relevance of the past in making informed judgments about the future, and crafting written communications that will serve future generations. Whatever the area of history one studies in this graduate-level program, students will better comprehend our past and its consequences for the future. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a 4% increase in job growth in historical professions between 2021 and 2031. This guide explains the online master’s in history degree program and its various facets, including the curriculum, specializations, accreditation, career options, etc.
Best Online Master’s in
History Programs
When evaluating an institution’s reputation, students must consider a variety of factors, including its infrastructure, the quality and expertise of its teachers, the availability of student support services and program options, affordability, accreditation, graduation rates, and so on. Based on these and several other important rating factors, FBD staff created a list of the best online master’s in history degree programs: *
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| University of Nebraska at Kearney | 2504 9th Avenue, Kearney, Nebraska 68849 | $6,216 | 55% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from the Online Master’s
in History Program
The online master’s in history program can help students improve their history knowledge while constructing a transferable set of skills they can use in a variety of fields by learning how to research, analyze, write, present, and think critically. Furthermore, by analyzing historical scholarship, creating written communications, and arguing for the value of the past in relation to making wise decisions about the future, this degree can deepen one’s understanding of the process of “making” history.
At most universities, prospective master’s in history students can choose from online, off-campus, or hybrid programs (that blend online and offline classes). One may also have the option of picking a thesis or non-thesis track. It is generally customary for programs to include an internship, field training, or capstone project towards the end of the program. The curriculum is standard at most colleges, comprising core courses, electives, and specialization courses. The main courses concentrate on historical techniques and research abilities that allow historians to explain the past precisely and compellingly. Understanding the variety of historical approaches will help students recognize how historical interpretations and arguments change over time and help them establish their own preferred analytical techniques. Students can study topics relevant to public history, like comprehending the most recent technology for preserving and digitizing history or investigating traditional coursework centered on research and writing. Some examples of courses include:
Historical Methods
In this course, students learn a wide range of techniques and strategies histories employ to analyze and evaluate historical accounts and sources. They will have the chance to explore various methodological viewpoints and the connections between theory, method, and interpretation in historical research.
Histography
This course focuses on the craft and profession of history and its relationship to society. It offers a deep-level exploration of historical writing and the study of history. It also discusses how historical interpretations and arguments constantly evolve and understands how historical meta-narratives influence people’s perception and understanding of the past.
Global History
This course, often a part of the global history track, examines key themes and problems in a wide range of global history topics. It examines how historians construct arguments and reflect critically on their choices. This course, which focuses primarily on secondary sources, aids learners in honing their historiographical thinking and writing.
Socialism
In this course, students study one of the most significant movements in modern history. They examine and understand the socialist ideology and the various offshoots, such as anarchism, revolutionary socialism, communism, and social democracy. Students also learn about the various socialisms, their many interpretations, and how these have affected the world and caused conflict among their adherents.
Note: The courses one can expect from the online master’s in history program largely depend on the chosen concentration.
Degree Types for Online Master’s
in History Programs
A history master’s program is primarily of two types – the Master of Arts in History or MA in History and the Master of Science in History or MS in History, explained below:
Master of Arts in History (MA History)
The Master of Arts in History or MA History is a graduate-level degree that integrates history with humanities and liberal arts studies. Many students who pursue the MA in History take up careers in academia and research.
Master of Science in History (MS History)
A Master of Science in History or MS History is a degree program that focuses on the topic of history from a more scientific, research-based perspective. Graduates with an MS in History will have the practical experience and theoretical foundation for leadership positions in the field.
Areas of Specialization in Online
Master’s in History Programs
Specializations are an excellent way for students to delve deeper into a topic. History is a vast subject with numerous concentration areas in which one can specialize and become an expert. The online master’s in history degree program offers a one-of-a-kind selection of regional and thematic concentrations. As the names suggest, regional concentrations concentrate on a geographical region, whereas thematic concentrations concentrate on a topic or theme. Among the specialization options available in both categories are:
Regional Concentrations
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| American History | This specialization focuses on the history of the United States. It traces the United States’ expansion and growth, providing a compelling perspective on how our country now fits into the dynamic global environment. | Entry-level historian positions at historical associations, museums, or other similar organizations. |
| European History | This specialization offers detailed historical information about Europe. It looks at the many changes that have occurred throughout the continent’s long history, from ancient Greece and Rome to its involvement in World Wars I and II. | Entry-level historian positions at historical associations, museums, or other similar organizations. |
| Middle Eastern History | This specialization looks at the Middle East, from the rise of Islam to its involvement in regional and global conflicts. It investigates the region’s religious, political, and economic realities over time. | Entry-level historian positions at historical associations, museums, or other similar organizations. |
| World History | This specialization introduces students to a non-western historical period. They will investigate international issues through a methodological lens, looking at perspectives from outside North America. | Entry-level historian positions at historical associations, museums, or other similar organizations. |
Thematic Concentrations
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Military History | This specialization looks into how warfare has influenced the evolution of civilization and culture. Students learn about the civil war, the industrial era of World War I, America’s rise to global power status, the cold war, and the impact of modern warfare on non-western societies. | Positions in historical societies, government agencies, nonprofits, and at local museums or other organizations. |
| Diplomatic History | This specialization investigates the past, present, and future relationships of nations and regions and the numerous factors that influence them, such as international trade, economics, human rights, foreign policy, and so on. | Positions in historical societies, government agencies, nonprofits, and other organizations. |
| Intellectual History | This specialization investigates the evolution of human thought, culture, and expression, or the factors that have allowed humans to be the only members of our species to use our minds and communication tools to mediate our interactions with the natural world. | Positions in historical societies, government agencies, nonprofits, and other organizations. |
| Economic History | This specialization looks at the various economic systems people have created and contested throughout history, such as evolving forms of slavery, feudalism, capitalism, and socialism. | Positions in historical societies, government agencies, nonprofits, and other organizations. |
| Gender History | This specialization looks at how gender has evolved historically and culturally as an important component of economics, politics, social relations, and culture. It entails researching the history of women, gender, and sexuality in comparison. | Positions in historical societies, government agencies, nonprofits, and other organizations. |
| Jewish History | This specialization focuses on Jewish history. It examines the modern relationship between Jews and Muslims, including the Holocaust, rabbinic literature, biblical exegesis, modern Israel, and so on. | Positions in historical societies, government agencies, nonprofits, and other organizations. |
Why should I do an Online
Master’s in History?
The master’s in history program focuses on developing one’s advanced research, analysis, and presentation skills, as well as project planning and management abilities, in addition to writing and communication skills. The program was created to help students become more knowledgeable and skilled in the field of history as well as to prepare them for a variety of careers outside of academia and more conventional history-related jobs. History graduates are not limited to a single career path. With an online master’s in history, students can pursue a Ph.D. in history or work as high school or community college educators, museum administrators, archivists, researchers, archeologists, or librarians, among other positions.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of historians is predicted to expand by 4% from 2021 to 2031, roughly the same rate as the overall average. A master’s degree is certain to make one more competitive and employable. History graduates can look for employment, among other places, at colleges, universities, and museums. Students leave school not only with knowledge related to their degree but also with a priceless set of skills useful in a variety of contexts. They would have the ability to:
- synthesize a variety of historical discussions regarding a subject or event;
- use best practices while composing for particular audiences;
- analyze and put into practice the discipline-appropriate approaches and theories;
- utilize tools to collect, arrange, evaluate, and share historical information;
- create a research strategy employing methods and materials from the past;
- describe the advantages of making judgments based on the past;
- review the historical sources’ veracity;
- exhibit historical expertise and unique insight in essays or projects that adhere to discipline-appropriate professional standards;
- use primary and secondary sources to understand and interpret historical events; and
- deliver oral historical information and analysis professionally.
Free Courses for Online Master’s
in History Students
Free history courses are easily available on online platforms and websites, but unfortunately, very few of them are recognized by any academic institutions, and even fewer offer academic credit. However, they can serve as helpful resources for homework or research. Here are some examples of free online history courses that online master’s in history students can explore:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Topics Related to History | MIT OpenCourseWare lists about 10 graduate-level courses in history, which include topics like Theories and Methods in the Study of History, Readings in American History Since 1877, Nature, Environment, and Empire, etc. | MIT OpenCourseWare |
| Topics Related to History | edX hosts hundreds of courses in history and topics related to history, many of which are free and created by reputed universities such as Princeton, Harvard, Columbia, and MIT. | edX |
| Germany 1919-1947 | This course analyzed what life was like during World War II, the reasons Hitler became Chancellor and the changes to people’s lives between 1933 and 1939. | Udemy |
How to get into the Online Master’s
in History Program?
Most online master’s in history degree programs are not very demanding of incoming students when it comes to admissions requirements. Many programs require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree in history or a similar/related subject or to have completed a substantial amount of undergraduate history coursework. Furthermore, some programs, but not all, require GRE test scores. Some of the typical online master’s in history admission requirements are as follows:
Online Application & Application Fee
Completing an online application and paying the prescribed application fee.
Academic Transcripts
An official copy of academic transcripts from each college/university attended.
Undergraduate Degree + Grade Point Average
An undergraduate degree and Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.25 or more.
Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) Scores
An official copy of GRE or GMAT scores no older than 5 years.
Graduate Résumé or Curriculum Vitae
The latest résumé or CV that provides personal information and work experience.
Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose
A statement outlining how the program relates to the applicant’s career goals.
Letters of Recommendation
At least 2 letters of recommendation from those who can provide a thorough evaluation of the applicant’s abilities at the graduate level.
Proof of English Proficiency
A document proving proficiency in English (if the native tongue is or education was not in English).
Note: Because the specific requirements for each college vary, it is always a good idea to double-check with the admissions office for the most up-to-date information.
Online Master’s in History
No GRE Programs
Many graduate schools require the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) as a prerequisite for admission because it measures a candidate’s independence and motivation to complete graduate-level study. Thankfully, many institutions are moving toward rendering the GRE unnecessary or optional. Schools where the GRE is mandated may impose stricter standards for admissions, such as a minimum undergraduate GPA, work experience, certification, recommendation letters, and so on. Examples of universities that offer online master’s in history no GRE programs are Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW), and Arizona State University (ASU Online).
How Long does it take to complete the Online
Master’s in History Program?
It would take about 2 years of full-time study to earn an online master’s history degree, with most programs requiring between 30 and 36 credits. Of course, this will vary based on the specific major, institution, and required and recommended courses. The length of a program may also be affected by the inclusion of a thesis, capstone project, or internship. Several colleges and universities allow working adults to enroll in and finish programs on their own time, with completion times ranging from two to four years (and sometimes even further). The timeline for the master’s degree in history is as follows:
- Time to complete a full-time online master’s history: about 2 years
- Time to complete a part-time online master’s history: between 2 and 4 years
Accelerated Online Master’s in
History Programs
In the second semester of their junior year, students at some universities can apply to enter a master’s history degree program. If approved, a student’s senior year coursework could count toward both the bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Thus, a bachelor’s and master’s degree in history can be earned in 4+1 years or even 4 years rather than the usual 4+2 years. The University of Northern Colorado, Johns Hopkins University, and the Geneseo State University of New York are all good examples of institutions providing such combined degree programs.
Accreditations for Online Master’s
in History Programs
One of the most important factors for prospective students to consider when enrolling in an online master’s history degree program is accreditation. The United States Department of Education (USDE) and the Council of Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) approve the organizations that accredit colleges and universities in the United States. Accreditation requires a thorough examination of a school’s academic offerings and student support services. Because a school’s accreditation affects both course credit transferability and a student’s eligibility for federal financial aid, prospective students should ensure that the institution offering the program has received national or regional accreditation from organizations such as the:
- New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
More information on accreditation is available in the Guide to College Accreditation.
How to Pay for an Online Master
in History Degree?
A master’s in history can be quite expensive. On average, a master’s degree in the United States will cost about $66,340, according to Education Data. The high cost of education is still a major deterrent for online students, even though they would save money on living expenses, food, and transportation. Students interested in pursuing an online master in history degree may be able to receive funding from the following sources:
Scholarships
Scholarships are awarded to students who excel in school and extracurricular activities. Students prefer them over other forms of financial aid because they do not have to be repaid and are relatively easy to obtain.
Grants
Grants, like scholarships, are forms of financial aid that do not have to be repaid. In most cases, a higher priority is placed on an applicant’s demonstrated financial need rather than their academic performance. The grant money can be used for tuition, books, and classroom supplies.
Work-Study Programs
With the help of work-study programs, students can earn money to put toward their college expenses. Students who participate in work-study programs benefit from the monetary and educational benefits of these opportunities and the practical experience and training they receive.
Graduate Assistantships
Graduate students interested in working in the classroom or the lab can seek out assistantships with individual professors or departments. In exchange for their work, graduate assistants often receive monetary compensation or a reduction or complete waiver of their tuition costs.
Student Loans
Another way to pay for college is through a student loan. Financial institutions, the government, and banks all offer student loans. It is important to keep in mind that taking out a loan means paying more for school in the long run because of interest. Learn about Donors for Student Loans and Grants for Student Loans to learn how to apply for loan forgiveness and avoid repaying student loans.
FAFSA
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA is an application for federal financial aid that all prospective and current college students must complete to determine if they are eligible for aid. The FAFSA Student Aid guide explains more.
Read about What is Financial Aid? and find out everything there is to know about college funding in the How to Pay for College guide.
Scholarships for Online Master’s
in History Students
Bagging a scholarship is an excellent way to defray the high costs of an online master’s in history degree program. Those with an excellent academic background will likely be eligible for various scholarships provided by academic institutions, private organizations, non-profits, and businesses. Some examples of scholarships include:
| Scholarship | Description | Amount/Award | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lillian and Arthur Dunn Scholarship | The Lillian and Arthur Dunn Scholarship is awarded to deserving sons or daughters (child or stepchild) of a Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) member pursuing graduate study. | $2,500 x 2 awards | January 31, 2024 |
| The Frances Crawford Marvin American Indian Scholarship | The Frances Crawford Marvin American Indian Scholarship is awarded to a Native American candidate enrolled full-time at a two- or four-year college or university. The applicants must prove enrollment in a tribe recognized at a state and/or federal level. | Varies | January 31, 2024 |
| Edward G. and Helen A. Borgens Secondary Teacher Education Scholarship | The Edward G. and Helen A. Borgens Secondary Teacher Education Scholarship is awarded to students 25 years of age (or older) studying to teach at the secondary level (grades 9 through 12). | $1,500 | January 31, 2024 |
FAQs Related to the Online Master’s
in History Program
What are the best history online master’s?
The top history master’s programs are accredited, include specializations and program customization, and provide students with hands-on experience through projects, research, or internships. This page highlights some of the best online master’s in history degree programs in the United States.
Can I do a master’s in history online?
Can I do a master’s in history without a bachelor’s?
Will I gain practical skills in history through a master’s program?
How many years is a master’s in history degree?
Can I specialize in a particular field in history?
Can I do an online master’s in history without a thesis?
Career Opportunities and Salaries after an
Online Master’s in History Degree
The online master’s history degree helps students become more knowledgeable and skilled in the field of history as well as prepares them for a variety of careers outside of academia and more conventional history-related jobs. The master’s in history program focuses on developing one’s advanced research, analysis, and presentation skills, project planning and management abilities, and writing and communication skills. Several roles are available in teaching, research, publishing, preservation, the government, etc.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), historians earn a median annual salary of $63,940, with a projected 4% job growth through 2031. Here are some examples of jobs in the field, as well as their median annual salaries and projected job growth reported by the BLS:
| Occupation | Job Description | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2030) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropologists and Archeologists | Anthropologists and archaeologists investigate and study the origins, development, and behavior of humans. They conduct global research on people’s cultures, languages, archaeological remains, and physical characteristics. | Critical-thinking skills, analytical skills, communication skills, physical stamina | $61,910 | 6% (as fast as average) |
| Sociologists | Sociologists investigate society and social behavior by investigating the groups, cultures, organizations, social institutions, and processes that emerge when people interact and collaborate. | Critical-thinking skills, analytical skills, communication skills | $92,910 | 5% (as fast as average) |
| Political Scientists | Political scientists study the development, evolution, and operation of political systems. They conduct political research and analyze governments, political trends, policies, and other issues related to government. | Critical-thinking skills, analytical skills, communication skills, creativity | $122,510 | 6% (as fast as average) |
| Historians | Historians research, examine, analyze, interpret, and write about the past by studying historical documents and sources. They gather historical data from various sources before analyzing and interpreting it to determine its authenticity and significance. | Communication skills, research skills, foreign language skills, analytical skills, problem-solving skills | $63,940 | 4% (as fast as average) |
| Postsecondary Teachers | Teachers at the postsecondary level instruct students in various academic disciplines beyond the high school level. They may research, compose scholarly articles and books, arrange courses and assignments, and oversee graduate teaching or research assistants. | Speaking skills, writing skills, interpersonal skills, critical-thinking skills, resourcefulness | $79,640 | 12% (faster than average) |
Certifications and Licensing for Online
Master’s in History Students
Professional certifications go beyond academic credentials to show the public and potential employers that a candidate has the necessary knowledge, skills, and expertise in the field. Certifications demonstrate competency and capability while also adding significant weight to a person’s résumé. History is not one of the many disciplines that provide students and professionals with professional certifications. On the other hand, those who want to teach must obtain a teaching certification and state-specific licensure. Here is more information on history teaching certification and licensure.
Additional Resources for Online Master’s
in History Students
History is widely recognized as a vast subject. As a result, the greater the information and insights obtained, the better. To that end, membership in professional organizations offers numerous advantages, such as increased credibility and networking opportunities in the field. These organizations, in general, seek to promote the study, transmission, and preservation of priceless historical records and narratives. Here are a few to explore:
Society of American Archivists (SAA)
The Society of American Archivists (SAA), the oldest and largest national professional association in North America, is dedicated to the needs and interests of archivists and archives. SAA represents over 6,200 professional archivists working in government, universities, libraries, businesses, and historical organizations across the U.S.
American Historical Association (AHA)
The American Historical Association (AHA) is the world’s largest professional organization dedicated to all types of historians. The AHA is a well-known advocate for history education, historians’ professional work, and the critical role of historical thinking in public life.
American Alliance of Museums (AAM)
The American Alliance of Museums (AAM) is the only group that speaks for all types of museums, including science centers, zoos, and museums of art and history. Since 1906, AAM has promoted museums through advocacy and given museum professionals the tools, information, ideas, and connections they need to advance their profession.
National Trust for Historic Preservation (NTHP)
The National Trust for Historic Preservation (NTHP) is a privately funded nonprofit organization dedicated to saving America’s historic sites, telling the full American story, strengthening communities, and investing in the future of preservation.
National Council on Public History (NCPH)
The National Council on Public History (NCPH) is a membership organization committed to making history relevant in the present and encouraging collaboration between historians and their audiences. NCPH establishes professional standards, ethics, and best practices, offers professional development opportunities, and recognizes excellence in a variety of public history activities.
Author Bio:
Nikita Nath
Nikita is a psychologist working primarily with children using a child rights-based approach. She also writes content for various websites and blogs on diverse topics, focusing primarily on academia. Her hobbies include traveling, reading, and discovering different coffee-making techniques.
Degrees
Bachelors in English, Journalism, and Psychology; Masters in psychology with clinical specialization
- nikitanath8@gmail.com
Areas of Expertise & Credentials
- 2 years of experience working as a content writer with various start-ups
- 1 year of experience working as a child psychologist with Insight
- Working on various projects of inclusion for neurodivergent children
- 2+ years of experience teaching psychology online
Disclaimer:
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