An online master's degree in history provides you with skills to work with historical documentation, as well as look at political and social trends. This online degree is also popular amongst professionals that want to pursue a doctoral degree and focus on a specialization. You may choose to earn an online history master's degree to gain critical thinking, analytical, and research skills useful in many fields, including government, business, education, and law. Most master's degrees in history can be completed in two years, although you may take longer if you enroll part-time.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job growth for history-related jobs like anthropology or archaeology is projected to grow 5% from 2019 to 2029.
This guide covers important information for anyone considering an affordable master's in history, including common courses, concentrations, and prospective careers.
History Master's Programs for You
These top schools offer a variety of online graduate degree programs. Figuring out where to apply? Consider one of these online Master's or PhD programs.
What is an Online Master's in History Degree?
An online master's in history degree will include foundational courses in the historical method and overviews of the world, European, and American history. More advanced courses will allow you to focus on an area that interests you, such as women's history or the history of the Civil Rights era. Many programs require a thesis or practicum in an area of applied history.
Schools generally require you to earn between 27-46 credits for your degree. Studying full time, you may be able to earn your degree in less than two years. Part-time students may take four to five years to complete their degree. When you decide whether to go full orpart-time, consider that you will need to spend about four hours a week for every credit hour you are taking.
Common History Master's Courses
Common Concentrations in a Master's in History
The broad scope of the historical field allows for many possible concentrations. In most programs, you will take several basic courses and then have the option to choose an area of interest. Your program may culminate in a thesis or research paper that allows you to explore your chosen focus in-depth.
You may choose to focus on a particular country's history, such as the history of the United States or Russia. This focus may be helpful to for teachers, especially those at the secondary level.
Focusing on a specific era is another popular option and includes the possibility of diving into the post-World War II era or the colonial era in South America. A focus on current events is a good option for anyone hoping to enter the world of government and politics.
You may also consider homing in on a particular topic in history, such as the past events of the environmental movement or military history. This option is well-suited for those who intend to pursue a career as a researcher or museum curator or those continuing with doctoral studies.
Online Master's in History Admissions Requirements
Most programs require you to have a certain number of credits in history at the undergraduate level. Some, but not all, schools require you to have taken the GRE. The application process may include obtaining letters of recommendation, as well as a personal statement that indicates your reasons for wanting to attend the institution.
Admissions counselors will look at your undergraduate grades and may have a GPA cut-off of 2.5 or 3.0. You will need to submit transcripts and a resume or CV.
Career and Salary Outlook for History Graduates
Many history scholars work in museums and archives, where the median salary is $52,140, according to the BLS. Another popular area for those with a master's degree in history is law, where they can earn a median pay of $52,920 as a paralegal, and $126,930 if they continue their studies to earn a J.D. degree.
If you become a teacher, expect to make a median salary between $60,000 and $62,000. Although most teaching jobs at the college level require a doctoral degree, you may find employment as a lecturer at a community college, which pays a median salary of $80,790 annually.
History Careers
History majors are well-suited for jobs where critical thinking and writing skills are paramount. This includes positions in business and industry as well as more common areas of historical interest. Here are just a few job opportunities available for those with a master's degree in history:
Writers: Writers work for clients who need press releases, speeches, web pages and other written material. The median salary of a writer is $67,120, but the profession is expected to shrink slightly, by 2%, over the next decade.
Political scientist: as a political scientist, you will earn a median pay of $125,350; the growth rate for the job is excellent, as it is expected to grow by 6% by 2029.
Public service: these positions include administrators for nonprofit organizations or government, political analysts, and advocacy experts. Salary varies greatly, with administrative professionals at the federal level, for example, earning $85,343 annually.
What Professional Organizations Are Available for History Graduates?
There are several major support organizations for history professionals.
American Historical Association
The American Historical Association advocates for history education and professional historians in any field. Paid membership earns you a discount on Oxford University Press books and other publications as well as access to grant programs and networking opportunities.
Organization of American Historians
The Organization of American Historians promotes excellence in the scholarship, teaching, and presentation of American history. Paid membership gives you access to job listings, teaching tools, and a periodic journal of history.
The National Council for History Education
The National Council for History Education focuses on educators in the field of history. There are multiple levels of paid membership, for which you receive the journal History Matters, discounted admission to museums and historic sites across the U.S., and access to archives that include a history-related curriculum.
Best Affordable Online Master's in History Programs
Frequently Asked Quesetions About Online Master's in History Degrees
How much does an online masters in history degree program cost?
Costs vary depending on the type of school you apply to. State institutions are generally more affordable and may charge $300 or less per credit. Private colleges and universities may charge $500 or more per credit. Scholarships, fellowships, and federal grants or loans can impact the amount you pay for your graduate education.
What master's degree can I get with a BA in history?
A general master's-level program in history will prepare you to pursue a doctoral degree in a particular area of history, such as the history of 19th century America. A bachelor's in history also provides a good foundation if you want to enroll in a J.D. degree or pursue a degree in government studies. You may also be well-prepared for a master's degree in museum studies or curatorial and art historical work.
