Online History Degrees

The fact that you’re reading this article tells me you’ve been thinking about going back to school to earn your degree. That is an awesome idea and one that can lead to more job satisfaction and higher pay.

Now the most important question is, which degree should you choose? Which degree will result in the best career outcomes and the biggest earning potential?

Well, if you’ve always had a fascination with history and like the idea of obtaining a degree that can lead to multiple potential career paths in law, journalism, government, education, and business, then a history degree could just be the right fit for you.

History majors explore and interpret past events, studying fascinating topics like art, architecture, societies, cultures, and politics throughout history. Graduates walk away with not only a profound appreciation for the past, but also strong analytical, research, writing, and foreign language skills.

In this article, we’re going to explore everything you need to know about earning a history degree. We’ll cover the best history degrees that offer the biggest career potential, compare online programs with traditional programs, and take a look at the differences between Associates, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees.

But be sure to read this ENTIRE article because I’m also going to tell you exactly how OnlineDegree.com could help you save a lot of time and money on your tuition!

Let’s get started…

8 Best Online History Degrees

Before I list the degrees that offer the biggest career potential, I wanted to share why I think these degrees are the absolute best.

They are Economically Viable

As I just mentioned a little bit ago, history majors walk away with a set of skills that are super useful and are always in demand. History students have the ability to analyze, research, write and communicate effectively and these skills always put you in a position to land great jobs in numerous industries.

An education in history also gives students a solid basis for a bright future in the field of research with some of the most important skills in this industry such as critical thinking, communication, and analysis.

Perfect for Changing Careers

Have you hit a dead-end in your career? Are you not as interested in what you do for a living? Do you want or need to start earning more for your family while still doing something that is interesting? Because a history degree can lead to a wide range of career paths in numerous industries which makes it great for those adults looking to make a career change.

Students pursuing a degree in history have the advantage of acquiring skills that enable them to view things from a fresh perspective. Having this can open up doors in many industries that value analytical skills, and investigative abilities and understand the importance of inclusivity and understanding other perspectives. In the ever changing world of today, industries need this more than ever.

Flexible and Affordable

You’ll notice that I’ve focused on those history degrees that can be earned online specifically because they allow busy working adults the opportunity to make a positive change in their lives without putting themselves at any kind of financial risk. Online degrees are far more affordable than a traditional college degree and allow you to study when it’s most convenient for YOU. You manage how you study!

Now that you know why I chose the online history degrees I did, let’s dive in:

1. History

Become a scholar of the past by studying a broad curriculum that prepares graduates to work in government, museums, and schools – all three places great for intellectual stimulation. Students will learn to analyze contemporary social, political, and economic issues. Programs typically include fascinating courses such as:

• World civilizations
• Prehistory
• History of Western Civilization
• Political Parties
• Human Geography
• 20th-Century Global History
• American Women’s History

Possible History Career Paths

A bachelor’s in history prepares graduates for a wide range of career paths. Graduates may find jobs as museum technicians or entry-level positions in high schools, colleges and libraries. this is a great way to start making the change you’re looking for. Jobs as archivists, curators, historians, professors or conservators require students to earn at least a master’s degree.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment of museum technicians will grow by 19% through 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations. The BLS also reports that the median annual salary for these professionals in 2021 was $47,630.

It’s common for history majors to select one of the following three concentrations:

2. American History

Are you someone with a profound love of America? Do you wish to better understand how this great nation came to be? A degree in American History provides a comprehensive dive into the country’s key events, allowing students to break these events down into contextual elements to better understand causes as well as results and how it makes sense in the world where so much is happening even today and which will become a significant part of American history. In addition to learning facts and figures, a knowledge of American History equips graduates with a broader perspective on current events and a hopeful vision for their future in this country.

This curriculum helps students develop advanced analytical, critical thinking, and decision-making skills as well as strong oral and written communication and organizational skills. Most programs take a look at American History from 1607 to the present with a focus on Colonial and early national America, 19th-century America, and 20th-century America.

Potential Career Opportunities

The skills and knowledge obtained through an American History concentration prepare students for various rewarding professional roles. Here are just some of the career paths available to American History majors:

Editor – The median annual salary for editors was $63,350 in 2021, according to the BLS.

Records Manager – The median annual salary for records managers is $128,900, according to 2023 data from PayScale.

Legislative Director – The median annual salary for legislative directors is $111,250, according to Glassdoor.

U.S. Department of Defense Intelligence Analyst – The median annual salary for this role is $92,101, according to Glassdoor.

3. European History

Do you have an interest in our neighbors “across the pond?” Have you always been interested in monarchies, castles and legends of heroic knights? Do you want to learn how societies and people changed in Europe throughout their modern history? If so, then a degree in European History may be the perfect choice for you.

Students in this program explore how Europe has historically interacted with the world, its economic and commercial developments, cultural and intellectual development, national identity and technological and scientific innovations. Fascinating courses include:

• Renaissance and Exploration
• Age of Reformation
• Absolutism and Constitutionalism
• Scientific, Philosophical, and Political Developments
• Conflict, Crisis, and Reaction in the Late 18th Century
• Industrialization and Its Effects
• 19th-Century Perspectives and Political Developments
• 20th-Century Global Conflicts
• Cold War and Contemporary Europe
• And more…

Career Outlook

Graduates come away from this program with numerous skills that are always in demand. Here are just some of the possible career paths you may choose with this degree:

• Historian – Median Annual Salary (2021): $63,940
• Archivist – Median Annual Salary (2017): $60,050
• Attorney – Median Annual Salary (2021): $96,057
• Librarian – Median Annual Salary (2021): $61,190
• Writer or Editor – Median Annual Salary (2021): $69,510 (Writer); $63,350 (Editor)

4. Middle Eastern Studies

A degree in Middle Eastern Studies is perfect for those people who wish to look at other countries’ histories and especially take a deeper look into the culture and history of the Middle East, as well as dive into the various languages and politics in the region. Here are just some of the fascinating courses and topics you’ll cover:

• Islam
• Middle Eastern History
• Languages in the Middle East
• Society, Religion and Gender in the Middle East
• Conflict Studies in the Middle East

Students will also explore the political economy of the Middle East, the relationship between “resource wars” and the “war on terrorism,” and the changing geopolitical environments of Muslim and Middle Eastern countries.

What Can You Do with This Degree?

Graduates are prepared for a variety of post-graduate opportunities in various sectors including academia and government. You may decide to focus on research, writing and teaching about this region of the world, or work as a diplomat or for an environmental or human rights organization. Most graduates will come away with foreign language skills, which are incredibly desirable for numerous global organizations. Speaking Arabic will be particularly valued in many areas of business, education, anthropology, and more. Graduates will never be out of interesting as well as enriching opportunities.

According to PayScale, the median average salary for a diplomat was $94,229 in 2022.

5. Military Studies

Are you looking for a degree that offers a firm foundation in military history? Are you interested in future contracting work with the Department of Defense or other military agencies?

A Bachelor of Science in Military Studies will train military personnel and contractors to handle large-scale strategic and professional operations while gaining an awareness of military values and culture. Those individuals who wish to turn their commitment to the military into a rewarding career should seriously consider this degree. Instead of replacing skills and knowledge, the degree program seeks to upgrade the skills and direct them towards a new career field.

Students will study military history and cultural studies to provide context for existing military policy and threats. In addition, the history of American Entrepreneurship, which provides content related to military contractors and larger macroeconomic implications of warfare, will be explored. You’ll also dive into other topics like international security, a course specifically designed for those seeking careers in defense intelligence.

Careers with a Military Degree

Graduates with this degree will find many career opportunities available to them:

Field Artillery Officer – Between $59,913 and $93,186 annually, depending on rank.

Intelligence Officer – $94,470 annual salary to start.

Aviation Supply Officer – Median annual salary of $74,652.

Navy Public Affairs Officer – Media annual salary $65,108.

Graduates will also find all sorts of jobs with the:

• S. Army
• S. Air Force
• S. Navy
• S. Coast Guard
• S. Marine Corps

6. Anthropology

If you are looking for a degree that offers intellectually exciting coursework that results in excellent job opportunities in business, research, teaching, advocacy, and public service, then a degree in anthropology is right up your alley!

Students will learn about the diversity of human cultures as well as their relationship to the dynamics of social organization. You’ll explore different languages, the fundamental laws and processes of heredity and evolutionary biology, and many more fascinating topics! Such a learning experience will change the way you see the world and open you to so many interesting societies and ideas out there.

And you never know—you might even stumble into a brand-new interest or passion!

You’ll also acquire some very in-demand skills such as:

• data analysis and interpretation
• logical and independent thinking
• quantitative and qualitative observation techniques
• written and oral communication
• effective presentation organization and delivery
• discussion and group work skills
• cultural sensitivity and awareness

What Kind of Career Can You Have with This Degree?

Graduates with an anthropology degree will have obtained an abundance of skills that will increase their marketability in the global marketplace. Some graduates will go on to pursue careers in the nonprofit sector, while others will opt to go to law school.

In today’s busy world, where an awareness of cultural differences and the capacity to collaborate with people from different backgrounds is crucial in almost every field and sector, from corporations to government, formal education in anthropology is being recognized for its value more and more.

Some students will use their skills to help develop technology and software solutions for businesses, colleges, and other workplaces. Here’s a fact you may not know: Microsoft is the largest employer of anthropologists in the world. Other organizations are following suit, and we are seeing more of a demand for those holding this degree. See what can be done with this degree…

Here are just some of the job titles available to graduates of the degree:

• Nonprofit Program Administrator
• Foreign Language Teacher
• Ambassador or Foreign-Service Office
• Human Resources
• Attorney
• Translator or Interpreter
• Museum Curator or Art Gallery Professional
• Media Planner or Data Scientist
• Social Media Marketing and Digital Marketing
• Public Health Care and Healthcare Specialists

The BLS reports employment of interpreters and translators is projected to grow 20% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. They also report that the median annual wage for interpreters and translators was $49,110 in May 2021, with the highest 10% earning more than $97,760.

7. English Language & Literature

Have you always had “a thing” for Chaucer’s Middle English poetics? Maybe you have a slight obsession with the colonial subtext in the novels of Joseph Conrad or enjoy the linguistic stylings of today’s hottest rappers. Whatever your fancy, a degree in English language & literature will have you enjoying some of the greatest classics in literature, analyzing theories, critiquing prose and verse, and taking a more robust look at the words that surround us every day.

From Shakespeare to Virginia Wolf, you’ll study literary texts from throughout history, analyzing their passages and relating their texts to their cultural, social, historical and political contexts. Some of the fascinating courses you will enjoy in this program are:

• 19^thcentury literature
• 20^thcentury literature
• Contemporary literature
• Medieval literature
• Caribbean literature
• American literature
• Shakespeare
• Modernism
• Feminism
• Playwriting and poetry

What careers Can You Have with an English & Literature Degree?

Graduates with this degree can go on to pursue careers in a diverse range of roles and sectors. Popular career options for graduates with an English degree include:

• Journalism and Media
• Teaching
• Marketing, Advertising and PR
• Publishing
• Civil Service
• Law
• Politics
• Museum

According to the BLS, the employment of public relations specialists is projected to grow 8% from 2021 to 2031, faster than the average for all occupations. The BLS also reports the median annual wage for public relations specialists was $62,800 in May 2021, with the highest 10% earning more than $124,620.

8. Philosophy

Were you one of those kids that was always being accused of daydreaming when really you were just trying to figure out what life was all about? Or as an adult, you have always wondered about life, this world and more such questions related to the world around us and sought answers? Then a philosophy degree may be a great fit for you. In this program, students explore the history of philosophy and the writings of major philosophers.

Students will have a lot of fun and be challenged in this dynamic program. Beyond being introduced to the tenets of the discipline, you’ll explore issues such as morality, political legitimacy, scientific changes, medical advancements and religious belief. Most programs will also have you dive into the history of philosophy as well as develop skills in analysis, rhetoric, writing and critical thinking.

Typical courses required for a philosophy major include:

• Ancient and modern philosophy
• Moral and political philosophy
• Logic
• Ethics
• Epistemology
• Metaphysics

Popular Career Options

While the majority of graduates will go on to earn their graduate degrees to teach in universities, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to discover the wide range of career paths available with this degree including:

• Lawyer
• Systems analyst
• Cultural affairs officer
• Technical writer
• Critic

According to the U.S. BLS, employment of postsecondary philosophy teachers is projected to increase by 10% between 2018 and 2028. As of May 2021, the median annual wage for post-secondary philosophy teachers was around $77,610 annually, with the highest salaries typically going to those who taught at colleges, universities, and professional schools.

Online Vs Traditional Campus History Degrees

As I mentioned earlier, I have specifically focused on sharing with you those history degrees that may be earned online. Here’s why online degrees offer adults students more:

1. A Flexible Learning Schedule

Adults are busy people with jobs and family responsibilities. It can be challenging for them to find the time to take traditional classes at a community college while taking care of their responsibilities that are always there including family and work. Online learning means you can study when it is most convenient for YOU!

And what could be better than to enjoy learning, from the comfort of your home, at your convenience, and on top of everything, saving both time and resources of commuting to and from college?

2. Online Degrees are Incredibly Affordable

Generally speaking, online degrees cost just a fraction of what you’d have to pay to take courses on a traditional college campus. Moreover, while there are these initial savings, online degrees also help save by getting rid of the cost of room and board, or even gas money to get to campus! As an added bonus, you can continue to work while you pursue your degree.

Letting you manage your education along with other responsibilities including work and family. We believe in a healthy work-life-education balance. Not only that, but it comes with mental peace but also savings in time and money.

3. History Degrees Fit Online Learning Perfectly!

Thanks to the advancement of technology, there are a lot of online learning platforms that offer just about every degree imaginable. There are some degrees not suitable for online learning, such as those in certain science fields that require lab work but the subject of history is not one of those. It is perfect for online learning.

Benefits of a History Degree

If you’ve read this far, you may be thinking that a degree in history is the right choice for you. To help you along with your decision-making process, here are some benefits of earning a history degree:

1. Marketable Skillset

In today’s global marketplace and shaky economy, it’s beneficial for students to obtain a versatile professional skillset that can be applied to a range of career paths. A history degree offers graduates an enviable skill set; one that emphasizes analysis and communication.

Also, how would you like to be the one among people who knows all the important history trivia? Cool, right?! You might just end up becoming the next person everyone comes to, to ask every other history-related question.

2. Follow Your Passion

Many people work 9-5 jobs that have nothing to do with what they are really passionate about. If you love history, then this degree can set you up for a career where you will love going to work each and every day. Not to mention, as a professional historian, you’ll have all the chance to explore and gain an in-depth understanding of what went down in our societies including some of the best, worst, and course-changing events that have brought the world to where it is today. Seems like a great to deal to us!

3. Diverse Professional Opportunities

In addition to following your passion, a history degree will also prepare you to pursue a career in a wide range of interesting fields. Many graduates go into law, work for the government, work in museums, broadcasting, the military and even the national park service. There are quite some interesting opportunities out there.

Cost and Tuition of Obtaining a History Degree

The truth is, going back to school to earn your degree is a definite financial commitment. Sadly, many adults deny themselves the chance at a better career and life because they assume they can’t afford tuition.

Well we’re here to tell you, college can be WAY MORE AFFORDABLE than you may think. And we’ve got the inside scoop on how you can save. These so many online learning options now available are there to help you fit your education within your schedule as well as your budget. In fact, with some of these, you might even end up saving some cash.

Read our article on 5 ways you can save on college tuition, and also use our free Smartplan to find ways to save at various schools across the country by taking advantage of free courses, discounts and more. In fact, that’s why we created OnlineDegree.com so that everyone could have access to an affordable education.

Choosing the Right Type of History Degree

Congratulations on making it this far in the article. You’re obviously really interested in obtaining a degree in history and that’s fantastic. Now it’s time to talk a little bit about the type of degree you should go after.

Associate’s Degree

An associate’s degree is typically a two-year degree obtained through a vocation school or community college, though there are online associate’s degrees as well. An Associate’s of Art in History typically covers topics such as:

• American military history
• Ancient world history
• French history
• U.S. history before 1865
• U.S. history after the Civil War
• World War I and World War II

An AA in History degree helps individuals 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.

Bachelor’s Degree

All of the degrees I covered in this article are bachelor’s degrees, which traditionally take 4 years to complete, though there are ways you can shave some time off your studies. A Bachelor of Arts (BA) in History provides students with a robust skill set that most employers look for in candidates. A bachelor’s degree will help you stand out from other candidates and help you to earn a higher salary.

 Master’s Degree

Some graduates with a bachelor’s degree decide to continue their education and obtain their master’s degree in a chosen specialization. Master’s programs typically require another two to four years of coursework.

A Master of Arts in History degree allows students to select a specific area of concentration. Depending on the institution, concentrations might include:

• Museum Studies & Conservation
• Digital Humanities
• Archives and Public History
• Library Science
• Nonprofit Management

Graduates with a Master’s degree are considered experts in their field and command higher salaries.

Doctorate Degree

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in history is traditionally meant for those looking to pursue a career in academia. Students will focus on conducting scholarly research so they can teach at university level. These doctoral programs typically require another 30-72 credit hours.

Choosing the Correct University or College for History

Now that you have a good idea of which online history degree interests you, it’s time to find the right school. Here are a few criteria that are hugely important for adults. You’ll want to choose a university with:

• • • Online Programs
    • $0 application fees
    • No required SAT/ACT testing
    • Faculty and professors that understand adult students’ needs
    • Discounts or scholarships
    • Convenient enrollment dates year-round (so you don’t have to wait for Spring or Fall)
    • Accreditation

Finding adult-friendly schools that match these can certainly be challenging!

BUT, that’s why we created our Smartplan.

We realize that every student has unique circumstances and goals. When you use our Smartplan, we could help you find the right school you’re looking for AND has these crucial criteria to make pursuing your degree that much easier.

Register today to get your free Smartplan and compare different colleges! >>

Salary Data for History Careers

Let’s take one more look at some of the varied career opportunities available to you and the salaries of each job title:

Museum archivist – National average salary: $46,253 per year

Librarian – National average salary: $55,839 per year

Writer or editor – National average salary: $69,510 per year

Business consultant – National average salary: $74,008 per year

Lawyer – National average salary: $127,990 per year

Researcher – National average salary: $68,957 per year

Historian – National average salary: $60,881 per year

FAQs

Q: What careers can I have with a history degree?

A: Where do I begin?! Well, I’ve already covered a vast amount of career options, but here are some of those job titles again:

• History professor
• Park ranger
• Writer/Editor
• Lawyer
• Museum curator
• Marketer
• PR specialist

Q: Why should I major in history?

A: Because you have a passion for learning about the past; about where we’ve come from and where we might be headed. And because you very much want to develop a wide range of skills that will make you far more marketable than other candidates.

Q: What History major is right for me?

A: Everyone has their own unique interests and skills, so I can’t select your major for you. But what I can reiterate is that any of these degrees on this list will set you up for a rewarding and lucrative career.

How to Get Started

Wow, we’ve just covered a LOT of information. You may be wondering what you should do next.

I encourage you take a few moments to use OnlineDegree.com’s Smartplan to find the right school that offers all of the criteria you’re looking for.   We’ve provided this helpful and free tool for you to help you make the right decision and find ways that could end up saving you a LOT of time and money toward your history degree!

Register today for free >>