Best Online Master's in History Programs
Updated November 21, 2023
Students passionate about history and culture can pursue a variety of career opportunities after earning a master's degree in history.
A master's in history is a research-focused graduate program that usually requires 30-60 credits and takes around two years to complete. These programs may examine different fields, such as economics and sociology, as they relate to historical events, cultures, individuals, and movements.
History is an expansive field, including everything that has occurred over time, so students have innumerable options for personalization. Learners can study topics like legal history, historic preservation, history of a specific country or culture, historic literature, or the history of medicine.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), historians earn a median annual salary of $64,540, and jobs are projected to grow 3% between 2022-2032.
This page ranks the best online master's in history programs. It also covers other important information for prospective students, including common courses and potential careers for graduates.
Featured Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Master's Degree in History
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Online Master’s in History Programs
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Miami-based Florida International University offers a flexible online master's in history. The program builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new careers.
The curriculum explores history research and methodologies. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. Applicants without a history background may need to complete prerequisite courses.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
Florida International University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 58%
Total Online Master's Programs: 31
Program Name: Master's in history
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,912
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,393
#2 Best Online Master’s in History Programs
Louisiana Tech University
Ruston, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Louisiana Tech University, located in Ruston, offers a flexible online master's in history. The program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. Master's degree-holders can also pursue new career opportunities.
The curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. Applicants who majored in history or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through networking events.
Louisiana Tech University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 64%
Total Online Master's Programs: 8
Program Name: Master's in history
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,592
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,333
#3 Best Online Master’s in History Programs
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Manchester, Southern New Hampshire University offers an online master's in history. The program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. Master's graduates can advance their current career or move into new careers.
The curriculum emphasizes the best practices in history. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in history.
Online enrollees can add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students can also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Southern New Hampshire University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 88%
Total Online Master's Programs: 22
Program Name: Master's in history
Graduate Tuition In State: $18,810
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,810
#4 Best Online Master’s in History Programs
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
Slippery Rock, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania, Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania offers an online master of arts in history. The program builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in history. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The master's program builds on bachelor's-level history knowledge.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 71%
Total Online Master's Programs: 13
Program Name: Master of arts in history
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,288
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,932
#5 Best Online Master’s in History Programs
University of North Alabama
Florence, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students interested in a master's in history can earn their master of arts in history from University of North Alabama, located in Florence. The program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. Master's degree-holders can also pursue new career opportunities.
The curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The master's program recommends a background in history or a related field when applying.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
University of North Alabama at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 89%
Total Online Master's Programs: 13
Program Name: Master of arts in history
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,660
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,320
#6 Best Online Master’s in History Programs
University of North Carolina Wilmington
Wilmington, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of North Carolina Wilmington hosts a top-ranked master's for history educators. The program builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in history. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in history before applying to the program.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through networking events.
University of North Carolina Wilmington at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 65%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: Master's for history educators
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,719
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,548
#7 Best Online Master’s in History Programs
University of Louisiana at Monroe
Monroe, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Louisiana at Monroe enrolls students in its online master of arts in history program. The program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career or advance in their current field.
The curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in history. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in history or a related field.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through local internships. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
University of Louisiana at Monroe at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 80%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: Master of arts in history
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,490
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,590
#8 Best Online Master’s in History Programs
Arizona State University-Skysong
Scottsdale, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Scottsdale, Arizona State University-Skysong offers an online master of arts in history. The program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. After completing a master's degree, graduates can advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in history. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The program recommends a background in history or a related field when applying.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Arizona State University-Skysong at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 64%
Total Online Master's Programs: 48
Program Name: Master of arts in history
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,384
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $6,384
#9 Best Online Master’s in History Programs
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students seeking an online history degree can enroll in the master of arts in history at Liberty University, located in Lynchburg, Virginia. The program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. Master's degree-holders can pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The master's program recommends a background in history or a related field when applying.
Online enrollees work with the program to find local internships. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
Liberty University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 51%
Total Online Master's Programs: 67
Program Name: Master of arts in history
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,980
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $7,980
#10 Best Online Master’s in History Programs
Missouri State University-Springfield
Springfield, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Springfield, Missouri State University-Springfield hosts a top-rated online master of arts in history. The program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. With a master's degree, graduates can also pursue new careers.
The curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in history. Learners prepare for focused careers by choosing electives and concentrations. Applicants with prior experience in history or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
Missouri State University-Springfield at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 88%
Total Online Master's Programs: 28
Program Name: Master of arts in history
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,202
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,476
#11 Best Online Master’s in History Programs
Eastern Illinois University
Charleston, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Charleston, Eastern Illinois University offers an online master's in history. The program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. After completing a master's degree, graduates can advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The curriculum explores history research and methodologies. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The admission requirements include a background in history or a related field.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through local internships. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
Eastern Illinois University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 53%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program Name: Master's in history
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,356
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,654
#12 Best Online Master’s in History Programs
Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master of arts in history at Sam Houston State University, located in Huntsville, Texas, offers high academic quality. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous program. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new careers.
The curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in history. Learners can specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The admission requirements include a background in history or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internships at approved sites in their local communities. Graduate students can also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
Sam Houston State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 83%
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program Name: Master of arts in history
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,765
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,361
#13 Best Online Master’s in History Programs
Norwich University
Northfield, VT - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master of arts in history at Norwich University, located in Northfield, Vermont, offers high academic quality. The program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the history field and related industries. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new careers.
The curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of history. Learners prepare for focused careers by choosing electives and concentrations. Applicants with prior experience in history or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internships at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
Norwich University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 75%
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Program Name: Master of arts in history
Graduate Tuition In State: $17,904
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,904
#14 Best Online Master’s in History Programs
Pittsburg State University
Pittsburg, KS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Pittsburg, Kansas, Pittsburg State University hosts a top-ranked master's in history. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous program. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career or advance in their current field.
The curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in history. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in history before applying.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
Pittsburg State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 96%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master's in history
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,678
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,510
#15 Best Online Master’s in History Programs
Troy University
Troy, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Troy University, located in Troy, Alabama, offers a flexible online master's in social science with electives in history. The program builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. After earning a master's degree, candidates also pursue careers in new industries.
The curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program recommends a background in history or a related field when applying.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Troy University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 88%
Total Online Master's Programs: 18
Program Name: Master's in social science
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,650
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $15,300
Online Master's in History Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
What Is an Online Master's in History Degree?
Master's in history programs cover advanced history topics and typically include concentrations in areas such as ancient, American, military, art, and public history. Unlike undergraduate programs, master's curricula often focus exclusively on the student's concentration.
Regardless of concentration, most history master's students examine research methodologies and learn to differentiate among primary, secondary, and non-scholarly sources. Degree-seekers also learn to analyze and interpret sources for insights on past events. Most students also complete a final project or thesis on a topic relevant to their concentration.
Choosing an Online Program
With so many online master's in history degrees available, students may wonder how to narrow their choices down to just a few options. While the list of programs may feel overwhelming at first, many learners use a process of elimination to create a smaller pool of potential programs.
One of the most important things to consider is the focus of your potential program. Because history encompasses so many eras and subjects, each school offers different courses and research interests. For example, degree-seekers interested in American studies should seek out programs where faculty members are well versed in this subject. Students should also review available concentrations, since this can provide a better sense of the strengths of the department. Learners should also research electives and core curricula.
In addition to core and specialized coursework, most online master's in history degrees require a culminating thesis. These documents usually range from 20,000-40,000 words, exploring a time or topic in history using primary research and independent thought.
What Else Can I Expect From a Master's in History Program?
Offerings vary by program, but the following sections highlight courses and concentrations commonly found in online master's in history programs.
History Concentrations
Modern History
This concentration focuses on history from 1750 to the present. Major events include the Industrial Revolution, both world wars, the Russian Revolution, the Civil Rights movement, decolonization, and the Cold War. Coursework may focus on any part of the world.
European History
This concentration examines the history of the European continent. Students examine the shifting borders of nations and empires across centuries. Topics include wars, pandemics, cultural and social shifts, and modernization. Learners also examine colonialism and foundations of modern governments.
Women's History
This concentration focuses on the role of women throughout history, with special emphasis on power shifts and social dynamics. Students examine how individuals and cultures have viewed a woman's place in society over time.
History Curriculum
Historiography
Usually taken during the first year, this course examines trends in historical research, helping students understand how historical theories and frameworks connect to professional practice as a historian.
History of Modern Medicine
This course assesses how the idea and practice of medicine developed over time, focusing on advancements made in the last two centuries.
American Post WWII
This course analyzes how the U.S. has developed since 1945. Topics include the nation's role as a global superpower, the Cold War (including Korea and Vietnam), and the ongoing struggle for equality for all citizens.
History Professional Organizations
History students and graduates can take advantage of professional organizations. Many organizations offer benefits like professional development, networking, and continuing education opportunities. Professional organizations may also offer funding for research, information on available careers, and student discounts.
History Careers
Historians
Historians study past events, civilizations, and individuals. They may focus on particular eras or topics, such as Ancient Rome or art history. Historians may work in museums, write nonfiction books and articles, or present historical findings through educational lectures. These positions typically require at least a master's degree. Employers may also insist on field experience. Beneficial traits for historians include critical thinking, communication, and research skills.
College Professors
College history professors instruct college students on historical topics. They design lessons, deliver lectures, and assess student learning through exams and projects. They may also advise departments on curriculum changes and publish scholarly articles. Some institutions may require a doctorate for these positions, while others hire master's graduates. Professors benefit from strong communication, public speaking, and research skills.
Political Scientists
Political scientists examine the structures, trends, and impacts of political decisions. They may advise political figures, assist with creating new policies, and deliver presentations on political issues and concepts. More than half of political scientists work for the federal government. Employers usually insist on a graduate degree for these positions. These professionals need strong research, analytical, and communication skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take to Complete a Master's in History Program?
Most history master's programs take about two years of full-time study to complete.
What Can I Do With a Master's in History?
Graduates with a master's in history can work in roles like political scientist, college professor, and historian.
Can You Get a Master's in History Without a Bachelor's in History?
Many master's in history programs do not require a bachelor's in history for admission, though they usually do require a bachelor's degree of some kind.
Is a History Degree Hard?
History master's degrees are typically challenging yet rewarding, leading to a variety of high-level careers.
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