20 Best Online History Degrees for Budding Historians

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Updated March 2, 2023

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An online history degree explores our world's changes and developments. Find out how this discipline can suit your goals and what programs do it best.

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An online history degree takes you back in time to explore world-changing events, themes, and people. You'll learn to view events from a historical and cultural perspective while examining their effects and contexts. You can specialize in the geographic areas or time periods that interest you the most.

An undergraduate degree in history prepares you for a variety of career paths. You can work an entry-level history-related position, attend graduate school, or pursue an interdisciplinary career. To help get you started, here are some of the benefits of an online history degree, followed by our rankings of the best online history degree programs.

Reasons to Get an Online History Degree

  • An online degree in history offers flexibility, allowing you to study whenever and wherever you want.
  • Online learning accommodates a variety of schedules by offering accelerated, part-time, and asynchronous delivery.
  • You'll have access to more schools and programs, helping you find the most suitable curriculum, faculty, and support services.
  • Online programs may lead to cost savings through limited travel and lower tuition rates.
  • Online history degree programs may bring together a more diverse global student body, which can improve classroom perspectives and networking possibilities.

Did You Know...

In 2019-2020, 8% of all bachelor's degrees awarded were in the social sciences and history disciplines, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Featured Online History Programs

Our partner schools offer programs that help you advance your education while accommodating your schedule. Visit their sites to learn more about degrees, course offerings, start dates, transfer of credits, and more.

Top 20 Programs for an Online History Degree

Read About Our Methodology Here

#1 Best Online History Degrees

University of Alaska Fairbanks

  • Fairbanks, AK
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Fairbanks, Alaska, the University of Alaska Fairbanks provides flexible online study to learners from all walks of life. The school supports 4,867 online students from its main campus in Fairbanks, Alaska.

Students interested in a career in history will appreciate the flexibility of the school's bachelor's degree in history. The history program connects students across a virtual classroom setting, enabling convenient collaboration. The rigorous curriculum consists of foundational and advanced coursework, equipping learners with valuable knowledge. Students can further their knowledge of the history field through internships, externships, and other experiential learning opportunities.

Students benefit from academic advising, as well as other institutional resources, throughout their studies. Students should speak with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities and determine eligibility. According to the school, 88% of all degree-seekers are awarded financial aid.

Average Tuition
In-state
$6,962
Out-of-state
$22,980
Retention Rate
73%
Admission Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
7,179
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
68% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#2 Best Online History Degrees

University of Memphis

  • Memphis, TN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Memphis, a public college located in Memphis, Tennessee, provides quality online education across more than 24 bachelor's degree programs, including its BA in history degree. 

A bachelor's degree in history is an ideal choice for students seeking to pursue a career the requires an expert grasp of history. The history program enables remote study through a virtual classroom environment. The program curriculum equips students with general and advanced knowledge, preparing them for the demands of a history career or an advanced degree. Students can also pursue collaborative work with colleagues and faculty members, such as faculty-driven research projects.

Students can also take advantage of institutional resources, such as career services and experiential learning opportunities, to customize their program experience. The college reports a 53% graduate rate. The office of financial aid can connect students with internal and external funding opportunities. According to the school, 97% of all degree-seekers are awarded financial aid.

Average Tuition
In-state
$8,208
Out-of-state
$12,048
Retention Rate
78%
Admission Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
21,685
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Best Online History Degrees

Columbia College

  • Columbia, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A leader in online education, Columbia College of Columbia, Missouri is a private institution that reaches 7,568 distance learners worldwide in 23 subject areas. The online modality can benefit students seeking flexible study.

The bachelor of arts in history degree is one of several top-ranked programs, preparing students for the demands of a career in history, an advanced degree, or other career fields. The program facilitates interactive learning through a virtual classroom environment, where students can work and collaborate with colleagues and faculty. The program curriculum consists of foundational and advanced coursework. Students can pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, to experience the demands of their career. The college promotes student success through academic advising, career workshops, and other resources.

Enrollees can explore their eligibility for scholarships and other forms of financial aid in consultation with the financial aid office. Students can meet with the financial aid office to discuss eligibility requirements and explore available aid.

Average Tuition
In-state
$10,912
Out-of-state
$10,912
Retention Rate
64%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
9,913
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
76% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#4 Best Online History Degrees

Dickinson State University

  • Dickinson, ND
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Dickinson, North Dakota, Dickinson State University offers a top-ranked bachelor of arts in history degree, one of 43 bachelor's programs available to its students. While 43 undergraduate degree programs can be pursued at its main campus in Dickinson, the school also supports 23 online degree programs.

The history program enables students to learn at their own pace, allowing for part-time or full-time study. The virtual learning environment fosters interactive learning and remote collaboration among peers and faculty. Students take foundational and advanced history classes, as well as attend lectures led by world-class faculty. History students can also advance their understanding of history through internships, externships, and other experiential learning opportunities. Students benefit from institutional resources designed for student success, such as academic advising and career services.

Eligible students can receive internal and external funding opportunities to defray the costs of their degree. 

Average Tuition
In-state
$6,522
Out-of-state
$9,782
Retention Rate
68%
Admission Rate
100%
Students Enrolled
1,350
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
42% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 Best Online History Degrees

Sterling College

  • Sterling, KS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A leader in online education, Sterling College connects distance learners across five bachelor's degree programs, including a bachelor of arts in history. This bachelor's degree enables flexible study through an interactive, online learning environment. 

History students connect with classmates and faculty through a virtual classroom, completing coursework and benefiting from industry-relevant lectures. Students interested in teaching history can also take relevant teaching coursework concurrently. Enrollees complete foundational and advanced classes covering both U.S. and global history. Students can work with their academic advisors to customize their coursework to suit their career goals.

Students can also pursue experiential learning opportunities while receiving guidance from career services and academic advising. These resources contribute to the institution's 53% graduation rate. Students may be eligible for internal and external funding opportunities made available through the college. The college reports that 100% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.

Average Tuition
In-state
$26,000
Out-of-state
$26,000
Retention Rate
59%
Admission Rate
40%
Students Enrolled
653
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
14% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#6 Best Online History Degrees

National University

  • La Jolla, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

National University, located in La Jolla, California, offers online educational opportunities that reach learners from all walks of life. Of its 51 bachelor's degree programs, 40 programs are available online.

Available in-person and online, the bachelor of arts in history program prepares students for careers associated with history, teaching, or an advanced degree. Students in the history program benefit from robust study, competitive opportunities, and a supportive online learning community. Students can choose to pursue history-relevant coursework either full-time or part-time.  To deepen their knowledge of history, students can pursue collaborative learning opportunities such as research projects and internships.

Students can receive personal and professional guidance through academic advising and career services. These institutional resources contribute to student success. Prospective students can meet with the office of financial aid to discuss internal and external funding opportunities and determine eligibility. Around 33% of all students are awarded aid to assist with educational expenses.

Average Tuition
In-state
$13,320
Out-of-state
$13,320
Retention Rate
50%
Admission Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
16,670
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
53% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#7 Best Online History Degrees

University of North Alabama

  • Florence, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students looking for a quality and flexible online education in history should consider earning either a bachelor of arts or a bachelor of science in history from the University of North Alabama. A leader in online education, the school boasts an online enrollment of 5,068 students.

The undergraduate history program enables remote study through a virtual classroom environment. The program curriculum equips students for the demands of various career tracks that emphasize a firm grasp of history, such as law and teaching. Students can work with their academic advisor to customize their coursework to suit their career goals.

Students can also take advantage of institutional resources, such as career services and experiential learning opportunities, to better prepare for their future career. The college reports a 49% graduate rate. The office of financial aid can connect students with internal and external funding opportunities. Of all degree-seekers, 96% receive some form of financial aid.

Average Tuition
In-state
$9,600
Out-of-state
$19,200
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
7,702
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 Best Online History Degrees

Valley City State University

  • Valley City, ND
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students seeking a flexible bachelor’s degree should consider Valley City State University, located in Valley City, North Dakota. The public college provides flexible study options for students across 36 bachelor's degree programs. Students planning a career that emphasizes history, such as teaching or law, should consider a bachelor's of history degree.

The bachelor's degree in history provides learners with a premier education. Upon enrolling, students connect with a supportive online learning community, collaborating with colleagues and faculty in virtual classroom environments. Here, students gain knowledge by completing foundational and advanced history classes. Students can also participate in research projects through the Barnes County Historical Museum or join one of the university's history clubs. Students can access personal and professional guidance through career services, academic advising, and other institutional offices throughout their education.

Eligible students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid to assist with their educational costs. The college provides numerous internal and external funding opportunities to make higher education more affordable.

Average Tuition
In-state
$5,884
Out-of-state
$10,297
Retention Rate
73%
Admission Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
1,665
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
55% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 Best Online History Degrees

University of Illinois at Springfield

  • Springfield, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Illinois at Springfield, a public institution, supports undergraduate enrollees across dual modalities. The college supports 3,006 across its online bachelor's degree programs, making it a leader in online education.

The online bachelor of arts in history is identical to the on-campus program and an attractive option for students seeking a flexible study platform. History students can pursue full- or part-time study while connecting with classmates and faculty through a virtual classroom environment. Beyond the classroom, students can work with their academic advisor to explore experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and faculty-driven research. Students also benefit from institutional resources, such as academic advising, career services, and relevant workshops.

The college reports that 96% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid. Prospective students can meet with the office of financial aid to explore funding opportunities and determine eligibility.

Average Tuition
In-state
$9,520
Out-of-state
$15,948
Retention Rate
79%
Admission Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
4,275
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
70% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 Best Online History Degrees

Chaminade University of Honolulu

  • Honolulu, HI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Chaminade University of Honolulu offers ten online bachelor’s degree programs, including a bachelor of arts in historical and political studies. The online format may be a convenient, flexible option for distance learners and working professionals. 

The bachelor's in historical and political studies degree can prepare learners for careers in politics, public policy, history, and law. Enrollees benefit from a supportive online learning community and rigorous education. The curriculum combines foundational and advanced coursework, preparing students for future job demands and advanced degrees. Students can work with their academic advisor to customize their coursework to suit their career goals.

Throughout the duration of the program, students access institutional resources geared towards student success. These resources contribute to student success, reflected in the college's 59% graduation rate. Students can meet with the office of financial aid to explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. According to the institution, 99% of all students are awarded aid.

Average Tuition
In-state
$26,020
Out-of-state
$26,020
Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
95%
Students Enrolled
2,167
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
55% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#11 Best Online History Degrees

University of Louisiana at Monroe

  • Monroe, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Louisiana at Monroe supports top-ranked degree programs that can reach students worldwide. The college offers 38 bachelor's programs, with 14 programs available online. A leader in online education, the college supports 3,756 online students from its main campus in Monroe, Louisiana.

The bachelor of arts in history program connects learners from all walks of life with premier educational opportunities relevant to the history field. The virtual learning environment enables collaborative work and interactive learning among classmates and faculty. Students complete foundational and advanced classes while attending online lectures led by world-class faculty. Enrollees can also pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities to supplement their coursework. In addition, enrollees have access to institutional resources, including career services and academic advising, while attending the college.

The college reports that 98% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid. Interested students can discuss eligibility requirements with the office of financial aid.

Average Tuition
In-state
$5,788
Out-of-state
$17,888
Retention Rate
73%
Admission Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
8,673
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
43% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#12 Best Online History Degrees

University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth

  • North Dartmouth, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A leader in online education, the University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth connects distance learners through its 17 bachelor's degree programs, providing flexibility and convenience for remote degree-seekers

The bachelor of arts in history is offered through an online platform. The history program connects students across a virtual classroom setting, enabling online collaboration among students and instructors. Enrollees complete foundational and advanced classes, gaining relevant knowledge throughout their studies. The degree is designed to prepare students for careers in education, law, government, and business, as well as pursue advanced degrees.

Students can also explore experiential learning opportunities while receiving guidance from career services and academic advising. The institution reports a 59% graduation rate. Students should speak with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities and determine eligibility. According to the school, 98% of all degree-seekers are awarded some form of financial aid.

Average Tuition
In-state
$13,833
Out-of-state
$29,578
Retention Rate
70%
Admission Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
8,154
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
20% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#13 Best Online History Degrees

University of Maine at Presque Isle

  • Presque Isle, ME
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

From its main campus in Presque Isle, the University of Maine at Presque Isle provides online educational opportunities to 597 distance learners worldwide. The college promotes online learning through its 10 online bachelor's degree programs, reaching distance learners across the globe.

The university's bachelor of arts in history and political science program allows students to connect with classmates and faculty through a virtual classroom environment. Students benefit from a rigorous curriculum consisting of foundational and advanced coursework. To deepen their knowledge of either history or political science, students can pursue relevant elective classes to reflect their degree's concentration. Students can also explore experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, to broaden their knowledge.

Throughout their studies, students benefit from institutional resources such as academic advising and career services. Students may be eligible for internal and external funding opportunities made available through the college. On average, 91% of all enrollees receive financial aid to defray the costs of education.

Average Tuition
In-state
$7,170
Out-of-state
$11,460
Retention Rate
63%
Admission Rate
99%
Students Enrolled
1,445
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#14 Best Online History Degrees

University of Central Florida

  • Orlando, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Central Florida, a public college in Florida, connects students with a quality, flexible online education. Located in Orlando, Florida, the college supports both in-person and online programs. One of 19 online programs, the bachelor of arts in history degree prepares students for the demands of their chosen career. 

The virtual learning environment fosters interactive learning and collaboration among students and instructors. Along with core history classes, students can choose to concentrate their studies in various geographic regions, such as the U.S., Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America. In consultation with their academic advisor, students can also pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities.

Students interested in furthering their industry knowledge can pursue research, internships, and externships. Students can connect with institutional resources throughout the duration of their studies, such as academic advising and career services.

The college reports that 92% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid. Interested students should schedule a meeting with the financial aid office.

Average Tuition
In-state
$4,478
Out-of-state
$19,810
Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
44%
Students Enrolled
69,402
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#15 Best Online History Degrees

Southwestern Adventist University

  • Keene, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Based in Keene, Texas, Southwestern Adventist University provides online educational opportunities to distance learners seeking to further their education. The virtual format may be a preferred platform for busy professionals. 

To earn a bachelor's of history, students attend history classes and lectures in a virtual classroom setting. Students complete general education and advanced coursework that covers U.S and global history. In consultation with their academic advisor, students can also pursue internships, choose elective classes of interest, and explore experiential learning opportunities.

Throughout the duration of the program, students can access institutional resources to assist the student to succeed. The college boasts a 40% graduation rate. Students can meet with the office of financial aid to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. The college reports that 99% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.

Average Tuition
In-state
$21,528
Out-of-state
$21,528
Retention Rate
68%
Admission Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
687
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
7% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#16 Best Online History Degrees

University of Houston-Victoria

  • Victoria, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Houston-Victoria, a public college in Victoria, Texas, provides flexible educational opportunities to learners from all walks of life. The public college provides education to 3,753 online students from its main campus in Victoria, Texas. The university also offers 21 degree programs. 

Available fully online, the bachelor of arts in history degree is a flexible study option for students seeking to advance their career or education. The virtual learning environment enables collaborative work and interactive learning among classmates and faculty. The program curriculum consists of foundational and advanced coursework covering topics relevant to history and culture. Throughout their studies, students can work with faculty members on research projects, pursue internships, and explore experiential learning opportunities. Students can also access institutional resources such as career services and academic advising.

Eligible students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid to help offset their educational costs. Prospective students should speak with the financial aid office to determine eligibility.

Average Tuition
In-state
$4,896
Out-of-state
$15,024
Retention Rate
61%
Admission Rate
56%
Students Enrolled
4,506
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
83% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#17 Best Online History Degrees

University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus

  • Norman, OK
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus, a public college, provides flexible educational opportunities to learners who would benefit from an online platform. The public institution offers 105 bachelor's degree programs from its main campus in Norman. The school also provides 9,253 distance learners with a top-ranked education.

The bachelor's degree in history program connects students with skills that may be applicable to a career in law, public policy, government, and education. The virtual learning environment enables collaborative work and interactive learning among classmates and faculty. Students can choose to earn a general history degree or focus on a historical theme or region. Students can further their knowledge through experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and externships. Students also receive personal and professional guidance from the institution, benefiting from academic advising, career services, and other departments.

Eligible students can receive internal and external funding opportunities to defray the costs of their degree. Interested students can explore scholarships and eligibility requirements with the office of financial aid.

Average Tuition
In-state
$4,788
Out-of-state
$20,169
Retention Rate
88%
Admission Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
28,079
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
33% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#18 Best Online History Degrees

Southwestern Assemblies of God University

  • Waxahachie, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students looking for a convenient, quality online education should consider Southwestern Assemblies of God University. The private institution provides a premier education to 1,440 remote learners across the world.

The university offers a flexible online bachelor's degree in history, a practical choice for working professionals and remote workers. In the history program, students connect with classmates and faculty through a virtual learning environment. Enrollees complete coursework concerning significant ideas, facts, and concepts of U.S. and global history. In consultation with their academic advisor, students can modify courses, choose electives, and pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities.

Students benefit from academic advising, as well as other institutional resources, throughout their studies. Students interested in scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities should meet with the financial aid office. Around 98% of all students are awarded aid to be applied toward educational expenses.

Average Tuition
In-state
$20,496
Out-of-state
$20,496
Retention Rate
67%
Admission Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
2,050
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
70% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#19 Best Online History Degrees

Liberty University

  • Lynchburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Liberty University, located in Lynchburg, Virginia, offers online educational opportunities that reach learners from all walks of life. To date, the school offers 30 bachelor's degree programs, supporting distance learners across various fields.

The online bachelor’s degree in history is an attractive option for students seeking a flexible program. Students can choose to pursue history-relevant coursework either full-time or part-time. Students benefit from a rigorous curriculum of eight-week courses, consisting of foundational and advanced classes. Students can further their knowledge of history through internships, externships, and other experiential learning opportunities.

The institutional resources available through the college contribute to student success, as the college reports a 47% graduation rate. Students interested in learning about internal and external funding opportunities should schedule an appointment with the financial aid office. Around 99% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid to relieve the costs of a degree.

Average Tuition
In-state
$15,417
Out-of-state
$15,417
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
85,586
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#20 Best Online History Degrees

Oregon State University

  • Corvallis, OR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Oregon State University offers an online option for undergraduate students looking to earn a degree in history. The Corvallis-based college provides bachelor's level education across 83 programs, 22 of which are online. A leader in online education, the college reaches 14,977 distance learners across the world.

The online bachelor's degree in history is part of the university's Ecampus offering. Students have flexible study options, and the program facilitates interactive learning through a virtual classroom environment. Learners gain knowledge through general and advanced coursework, as well as research, internships, and externship opportunities. Students can also access personal and professional guidance through career services, academic advising, and other institutional offices throughout their education.

Eligible students can receive internal and external funding opportunities to defray the costs of their degree. Prospective students should speak with the financial aid office to determine eligibility.

Average Tuition
In-state
$9,846
Out-of-state
$29,445
Retention Rate
85%
Admission Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
31,719
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

How Accreditation Works for a History Degree Online

When pursuing an online history degree, you should always check for accreditation. Institutional accreditation provides quality assurance for your degree and ensures you'll have access to federal financial aid.

Online history degree programs don't typically have programmatic accreditation. In fact, the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation do not recognize any programmatic accrediting organizations in the history discipline.

As long as your bachelor's program is offered by an accredited institution, you're good to go!

What Courses Do You Take for an Online History Degree?

The courses you take for an online history degree can vary depending on your areas of interest.

Many bachelor's programs in history require you to study a broad array of cultures and eras, using tools from fields like sociology, anthropology, political science, gender studies, and economics to examine the impact of and relationships between different historical events.

You'll likely take multiple classes on U.S. history, though often you can customize your coursework to focus on a specific geographic area and/or time period.

Many schools offer a huge swath of history courses. Here are some common classes you might take for your online history degree:

  • African history
  • Civil rights era
  • Civil War and Reconstruction
  • Colonial America
  • East Asian civilizations
  • History of Western civilization
  • Latin American history
  • Medieval Europe
  • Middle Eastern history
  • Native American history
  • Roman Empire
  • World War II

Did You Know...

There were 3,300 active historians across the country in May 2021, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Jobs You Can Get With an Online Degree in History

As of 2019, more than 1.1 million working professionals hold a history degree, according to the BLS.

A bachelor's in history can prepare you for entry-level museum positions and teaching roles. A history degree also provides you with essential soft skills, such as communication, critical thinking, and cultural awareness. This foundation should allow you to explore many non-history-related careers.

After getting your online history degree, you may want to get a graduate degree to develop a specialization and advance your historical research and analysis skills. A master's or doctoral degree in history could qualify you as a historian, archivist, or college professor.

10 Popular Jobs for Online History Degree-Holders
Job Median Annual Salary (May 2021) Job Growth Rate (2021-2031) Minimum Education Required
Anthropologists $61,910 6% Master's
Archivists $60,050 9% Master's
Curators $60,110 14% Master's
High School Teachers $61,820 5% Bachelor's
Historians $63,940 4% Master's
History Professors $78,130 7% Doctorate
Librarians and Library Media Specialists $61,190 6% Master's
Museum Technicians and Conservators $47,630 13% Bachelor's
Political Scientists $122,510 6% Master's
Writers and Authors $69,510 4% Bachelor's

Source: BLS

Q&A With a Real Online History Student



Q: What is the best thing about earning a history degree online?

"One huge benefit of distance learning is that it makes it possible for me to attend school and still work normal hours. The option to finish my degree online was one of the main reasons that I chose my college. … The biggest benefit has been the ability to fit school into my already busy work and family schedules."
 — Brittney B., Online BA in History

Q: What role has technology played in your online history program?

"Technology is just as important as [the] curriculum. I love the convenience of online classes, but the presentation and access has to work in order for the class to be beneficial. The Blackboard platform that we use has been great in this respect. … I plan to continue my education using online classes."
 — Brittney B.

Q: Has your online history degree helped prepare you for life after graduation?

"I think that the modern workplace is centered on employees' ability to be technologically literate. … The ability to learn new programs and remain flexible is something that is important to employers and makes an employee more marketable. To be successful in business, you have to evolve continually. I think distance learning is one way to keep up with the demands of the workplace."
 — Brittney B.

Frequently Asked Questions About Online History Degrees

Can you earn a history degree online?

Yes, many schools let you earn a history degree online. History programs work well in an online learning environment because these degrees doesn't require fieldwork and practicums. Instead, history degrees emphasize research and theoretical components, which students can learn and discuss without being in a classroom.

How fast can you get a history degree?

The length of an online degree in history depends on the level, school, and student. In general, associate degrees take about two years, bachelor's degrees take about four years, and master's degrees take about two years. A doctorate in history can take anywhere from four to seven years to complete.

An accelerated online history program can reduce the time to earn your degree if you can manage the heavier course load.

Can you get a good job with a history degree?

Yes. A history degree gives you access to many prestigious and desirable positions. According to the BLS, more than 45% of history graduates work in educational institutions, management occupations, or the legal field.

Are history teachers in demand?

The demand for history teachers varies by level and region. The BLS projects a 5% growth in high school teacher jobs between 2021 and 2031. For postsecondary history teachers, the BLS projects a 7% growth during that same period.

Is a history degree worth it?

Many students will find an online degree in history very worthwhile. A degree in history is essential for aspiring historians, museum curators, and history teachers.

History programs can equip you with valuable life and soft skills. You'll learn how our society has grown and developed, how to communicate effectively, and how to research and solve problems.


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