Online Master’s in History

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.

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.

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).

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:

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.

More information on accreditation is available in the Guide to College Accreditation.

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:

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.