History Degrees
Most history degrees are offered through traditional on-campus programs, but many institutions are now offering hybrid or even fully online options. This variety of options can benefit those who are looking to pursue a degree but are unable to relocate, commute, or commit to enrolling in a program on a full-time basis. Whether enrolled in an on-campus, hybrid, or online model, students can find a degree with the level of flexibility they need that meets their individual needs.
The Best Bachelor Degree Programs in History
| School | Tuition* | Acceptance Rate | Graduation Rate | Financial Aid % | Placement Services | Career Services | Accepts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Wyoming | $4747 | 96% | 60% | 93% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 2 | University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus | $9063 | 80% | 70% | 96% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 3 | Westfield State University | $10849 | 87% | 61% | 86% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 4 | James Madison University | $12206 | 77% | 84% | 62% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE / NCCRS Credits |
| 5 | Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts | $10930 | 82% | 61% | 100% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 6 | Citadel Military College of South Carolina | $12620 | 75% | 74% | 87% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 7 | Fitchburg State University | $10505 | 88% | 58% | 91% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 8 | Appalachian State University | $7409 | 77% | 73% | 70% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 9 | Indiana University-Bloomington | $10947 | 78% | 79% | 84% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 10 | Iowa State University | $9320 | 92% | 74% | 90% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 11 | Salem State University | $11284 | 86% | 57% | 92% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 12 | University of Kentucky | $12360 | 96% | 66% | 94% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 13 | George Mason University | $12564 | 87% | 71% | 74% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE / NCCRS Credits |
| 14 | Christopher Newport University | $14924 | 72% | 78% | 75% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 15 | Miami University-Oxford | $15193 | 80% | 81% | 82% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 16 | California State University-Stanislaus | $7542 | 89% | 59% | 90% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 17 | Bridgewater State University | $10732 | 88% | 61% | 91% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 18 | Georgia College & State University | $9530 | 80% | 64% | 96% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 19 | Towson University | $10198 | 76% | 71% | 81% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 20 | Framingham State University | $11100 | 74% | 61% | 93% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 21 | Sonoma State University | $7880 | 91% | 62% | 71% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 22 | College of Charleston | $12939 | 78% | 66% | 83% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 23 | Eastern Washington University | $7526 | 96% | 54% | 96% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 24 | University of Nevada-Reno | $8184 | 88% | 61% | 88% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 25 | Western Washington University | $8343 | 90% | 68% | 86% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 26 | Colorado State University-Fort Collins | $11901 | 81% | 70% | 79% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE / NCCRS Credits |
| 27 | St. Mary's College of Maryland | $15124 | 84% | 77% | 95% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 28 | University of Cincinnati-Main Campus | $11154 | 77% | 71% | 75% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 29 | South Dakota State University | $9114 | 90% | 56% | 93% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 30 | Pittsburg State University | $7338 | 96% | 52% | 94% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 31 | Western Carolina University | $4277 | 69% | 62% | 85% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE Credits |
| 32 | University of Iowa | $9606 | 83% | 72% | 85% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 33 | University of Mary Washington | $13270 | 75% | 65% | 92% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 34 | University of North Dakota | $9736 | 81% | 61% | 92% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 35 | The University of Alabama | $10780 | 83% | 71% | 79% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 36 | Auburn University | $11492 | 81% | 79% | 72% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 37 | Kansas State University | $10800 | 95% | 65% | 88% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE / NCCRS Credits |
| 38 | California State University-Channel Islands | $6802 | 86% | 54% | 83% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 39 | Shepherd University | $7784 | 96% | 49% | 96% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 40 | Rowan University | $14000 | 74% | 73% | 86% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE / NCCRS Credits |
| 41 | Virginia Commonwealth University | $14596 | 87% | 67% | 81% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 42 | Longwood University | $13520 | 90% | 66% | 90% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 43 | University of Arizona | $12379 | 85% | 65% | 91% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE Credits |
| 44 | Oklahoma State University-Main Campus | $9028 | 70% | 65% | 90% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 45 | Keene State College | $14568 | 88% | 63% | 97% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 46 | California University of Pennsylvania | $11108 | 97% | 50% | 97% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 47 | California State University-Chico | $7806 | 72% | 67% | 76% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 48 | Lock Haven University | $10878 | 95% | 54% | 95% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE Credits |
| 49 | Old Dominion University | $10680 | 89% | 53% | 94% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 50 | University of Kansas | $11166 | 93% | 67% | 85% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
To get a more in-depth look at our school ranking methodology, please visit our ranking methodology page.
*Tuition information is based on published tuition and required fees, per data by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
What Kinds of History Degrees Are There?
Degree programs in history can be earned at the associate's through doctoral degree levels. Courses cover a range of topics from United States history to the history of science and medicine. Explore the degree programs, common coursework, career options and job outlook for this field.
Associate Degrees in History
Associate degrees in history typically take two years or 60 credit hours to complete. They can help graduates gain access to a variety of entry-level positions in industries such as museums and historical organizations, historical preservation and research, archival and information management, and travel and tourism. An associate degree typically offers broad training in United States, European, and world history, but students may have an opportunity to take electives in specialized courses. These degrees are often a more affordable and flexible option for individuals who might wish to transfer their credits to a 4-year institution and continue their studies. It is important to note, however, that students should be mindful to select an accredited associate degree program and verify that their prospective 4-year institution will accept their transfer credits.
Bachelor's Degrees in History
A Bachelor of Arts (BA) in History is a flexible liberal arts degree that generally requires 120 credits. It teaches students critical thinking, reading, and writing skills that are essential to a multitude of positions that require research, writing, and analysis. Several programs may offer areas of concentration that allow students to focus their studies in a particular area of study including United States history, European history, world history, museum studies, and pre-law, among others. Many students opt to earn a secondary teaching certification, complete an internship, or participate in field work such as in a museum or historical society in order to gain experience outside of the classroom. Some programs require a senior seminar research project. Those who are studying history may wish to pursue a graduate degree in order to further advance their career.
Master's Degrees in History
A Master of Arts in History degree often takes two years or four semesters of full-time study to complete, though many institutions permit students to enroll in classes on a part-time basis. Programs typically require 30 credit hours of coursework, or 10 courses, with an additional 3-6 credits of research and writing seminars, with some allowing students the option to complete a thesis on a topic of their choosing in lieu of a research seminar. Most master's programs in history offer more generalized coursework in addition to specialized offerings that allow students to advance their expertise in a specific concentration. While the degree can be a preparatory degree en route to the doctorate, it can also serve as a terminal degree for a student whose goal is an MA degree. Depending on the institution, concentrations might include:
- Museum Studies & Conservation
- Digital Humanities
- Archives and Public History
- Library Science
- Nonprofit Management
Doctoral Degrees in History
A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in history is typically designed for those looking to pursue a career in academia. While a doctorate primarily prepares students to conduct scholarly research and teach at the university level, it can also be suitable to those who intend to pursue a particular concentration within the field of history. These programs usually require 30-72 credit hours. In most cases, students must fulfill a number of requirements, which typically include passing a language translation exam in at least one foreign language, a set of comprehensive exams in areas of specialization, and writing a dissertation on a specific topic in the field.
Certificates in History
Certificates in history are ideal for students who are interested in pursuing careers in historic preservation, museum studies, digital humanities, or archives. Certificates in library science and nonprofit management are other options that complement history degrees. Depending on the institution, these credentials are often offered at the graduate level though some may be offered as part of an undergraduate program. Requirements for certificates vary, though they typically range from 15 to 21 credits.
History Bachelor's Degree Concentrations
There are a number of concentrations for history degrees available at the undergraduate level. These concentrations might be thematic or geographic in scope. Thematic concentrations allow students to explore issues and themes from historical perspectives, whereas geographic concentrations focus on these issues in specific parts of the globe. Some common examples of thematic and geographic concentrations, respectively, include:
- Economics & Business
- Intellectual History
- Medicine, Science & Technology
- Africa & the Middle East
- World History
- China, Japan & Asia
- European History
- Latin America & the Caribbean
- American History
Curriculum for a Bachelor's Degree in History
Curriculum in a bachelor's degree program in history generally provides a survey that begins with the ancient world and concludes with the modern era. Students are typically required to take a set number of core courses that cover different periods and geographic regions, such as United States History I & II, Western Civilizations I & II, and World History I & II. Electives are offered in a wide range of specific topics, which might vary by semester.
Some colleges and universities offer free online history courses and learning materials for students interested in history, but these typically do not offer credit.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Bachelor's in History?
A bachelor's in history typically takes 4 years or 120 credit hours. Most history departments require that students take 30 credits in the major and that they complete a set of established introductory courses. This can range anywhere from 6 to 12 credits depending on the institution. There are some degree programs that accept transfer credits, associate degrees from other institutions, or equivalent relevant work experience, all of which might count toward the degree in history.
In addition, some colleges and universities offer accelerated or fast track programs that allow students to complete their degree program in as little as two years. Courses are often offered during the evenings, on weekends, and in 7- or 8-week intervals to accommodate more courses in shorter periods of time. These institutions might also offer one or two summer sessions which allow students to take more classes during the academic year, thus shortening the time to degree completion.
Accreditation for Bachelor's in History Degrees
Many bachelor's programs in history are accredited through regional organizations such as the Higher Learning Commission, Middle States Commission on Higher Education, and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The U.S. Department of Education hosts a comprehensive list of federally recognized accrediting agencies. Accreditation ensures that certain criteria are met, allowing the institution to qualify for federal and state financial aid and ensuring that students are receiving a quality education.
History Licensure & Certification
To become a history teacher individuals will need certification. They must earn a bachelor's degree and complete a state-recognized teacher preparation program. Certification requires submission of transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended, a background check, and a passing score of state required exams. Teaching certificates are awarded depending on the state in which the diploma and license was earned and requirements for licensure vary from state to state. However, many states offer reciprocity and teaching credentials can often be transferred to a different state at a later date if so desired.
What Can I Do With a Bachelor's Degree in History?
There are many careers involving history in multiple industries. These include but are not limited to teachers, lawyers, historians, public policy officials, museum curators, and archivists, among many others. Students who study history acquire practical and marketable skills that many employers value and are transferable to a number of different disciplines. Also, there are many careers in history that provide the opportunity for travel.
How to Become a History Teacher
Individuals who earn a degree in history often wish to become high school history teachers. As mentioned earlier, in addition to earning a bachelor's degree, a teaching license is also necessary with requirements varying from state to state.
High school history teachers instruct students on the significance of important historical concepts, events, people, and places. They often engage student discussion on a variety of topics in addition to providing instruction on how to formulate arguments, understand the difference between primary and secondary sources, and write research papers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor (BLS), the median wage for high school teachers was $61,660 in 2019 with a job outlook of 4% from 2019 to 2029.
How to Become a Museum Curator or Archivist
Those who enjoy history and art might opt to work in a museum as a curator. Many institutions offer courses or programs in museum studies, archival studies, or public history. Students who are interested in this career path often complete an internship at a museum, library, or historical society. According to the BLS, museum curators and archivists earned a median salary of $49,850 in 2019. This field is quite lucrative, in that it is experiencing above average growth with a job outlook of 11%.
Curators and archivists work directly with historical artifacts. While a curator is often in charge of acquiring and exhibiting artifacts inside a museum, an archivist typically authenticates the items or documents that have been recovered or acquired. Both positions may have the opportunity to direct research programs within the museum or historical society and they often use techniques in public history to interact with general audiences to provide an instructive and meaningful experience. A master's degree or specialization in museum studies is usually required to become a museum curator or archivist.
Financial Aid & Scholarship Information for Bachelor's in History Degrees
Students can receive funding to support their postsecondary education from a number of sources. Prior to the start of the academic year, students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. The college where the student is enrolled will use the information provided on the FAFSA to determine how much financial aid the student will receive. This will later be documented on a report that lists the various types of aid for which the student is eligible. Students must maintain a certain grade point average, as determined by the institution, in order to be eligible for financial aid. The FAFSA must be completed every year. Applications are usually due by the end of June prior to the academic year for which the financial aid will be applied, but it is recommended that students complete it as soon as possible once the application window opens.
Several different forms of financial aid are available at the postsecondary level, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. Scholarships are typically awarded on the basis of academic merit and do not have to be repaid. For those studying history, there are a number of scholarships for history students available from national and private organizations. In addition, some individual universities also grant scholarships to history majors. Like scholarships, grants do not need to be repaid and are given on the basis of demonstrated financial need. Students may borrow loans to help finance their education but must begin repayment six months following graduation. Work study programs allow students to gain work experience on campus while also earning money to help support their education.
Should I Get a Bachelor's Degree in History?
The American Historical Association recently reported that since the financial crisis of 2008, colleges and universities have experienced a 30% decline in enrollment for history majors, with many students reportedly looking to earn what is considered to be a more practical degree instead. A major in history, however, can prepare students for many lucrative professions, including teachers, lawyers, curators and archivists, university professors, and public policy analysts.
Graduates with a bachelor's in history can also continue their studies in a master's or doctoral program in history. A doctoral program prepares students for careers in research and higher education as university professors. Salaries vary according to institution and geographic region.
Professional Organizations in History
Graduates in the field of history can join a number of career-specific organizations. A few notable options include the following.
The American Historical Association represents over 12,000 historians specializing in different fields and historical periods. At the annual meeting, historians can engage in professional development, showcase their scholarly research, and receive career assistance.
The Organization for American Historians is the largest professional society dedicated to the teaching and study of American history. Its estimated 7,000 members enjoy benefits such as a career center, which provides information on how to pursue a variety of positions with a history degree, as well as access to the annual conference and society's journal publication.
The National Council for History Education is an affiliate organization of the AHA that promotes the teaching of history both in schools and to the public. Members of the NCHE gain access to a host of benefits including a career center, professional development, and an informative blog that connects historical issues to modern-day events.
