Guide to History Degrees

Schools Offering Online History Degrees

Types of History Degrees

There are several types of history degrees available to students, each with its unique set of requirements, timeframes for completion, and coursework. These degrees include associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in history.

An associate degree in history serves as an entry-level qualification, typically taking two years to complete. The coursework in this degree provides a broad overview of historical events, periods, and themes, with classes in world history, U.S. history, and historical research methods. Earning an associate degree can lead to entry-level positions in museums, archives, and libraries or serve as a stepping stone toward a bachelor’s degree.

A bachelor’s degree in history takes approximately four years to complete and delves deeper into the subject matter, offering courses in various regions, time periods, and themes. Students may also have the opportunity to specialize in a specific area of history, such as ancient civilizations, European history, or American history.  A bachelor’s degree can open doors to careers in teaching, research, journalism, and more.

For those looking to further their education and expertise, a master’s degree in history usually takes two to three years to complete. This degree program allows students to focus on a specific area of historical study and often includes extensive research and writing, culminating in a thesis. Graduates with a master’s degree in history may find employment in higher education, research institutions, or specialized fields such as public history and museum work.

Lastly, a doctoral degree in history is the most advanced and specialized degree, taking anywhere from four to eight years to complete. Doctoral programs require extensive research and writing, with a focus on producing original scholarship in the form of a dissertation. Graduates with a doctoral degree in history often pursue careers in academia, research, or writing, working as professors, historians, or authors.

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Online History Degrees

Pursuing a history degree online offers several benefits, including flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and access to a wider range of programs. Online learning allows students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments, making it an attractive option for adult learners and non-traditional students. Additionally, online programs often have lower tuition fees and eliminate expenses related to commuting and housing.

When choosing an online history program, it’s essential to consider factors such as accreditation, faculty qualifications, and available resources. Accreditation ensures the program meets specific academic standards and is recognized by employers. Evaluating the faculty’s expertise and experience can help determine the quality of education provided. Moreover, online programs should offer resources such as library access, academic support, and career guidance to assist students in their studies.

Success in an online history degree program requires self-discipline, effective time management, and strong communication skills. To maximize your learning experience, engage with your professors and classmates through discussions, emails, and virtual meetings. Additionally, setting achievable goals, prioritizing tasks, and creating a study schedule can help you stay on track and maintain motivation throughout your online program.

Choosing the Right History Degree Program

When deciding on a history degree program, it’s crucial to consider several factors to ensure the program aligns with your educational and career goals. These factors include accreditation, program reputation, and faculty expertise.

Accreditation is an essential aspect to consider, as it signifies that the program meets established academic standards. Attending an accredited institution is particularly important when seeking federal financial aid or transferring credits between schools. Program reputation, including the success of past graduates and the quality of research produced, can also provide valuable insight into the program’s overall quality. Additionally, consider the expertise of the faculty, as knowledgeable and experienced professors can significantly impact your learning experience.

Another crucial aspect to consider is whether to pursue a history degree through a traditional classroom setting or an online program. Both formats have their advantages, and the right choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Traditional programs often provide a more structured learning environment, with face-to-face interaction with professors and classmates. These programs may also offer additional resources, such as libraries and research facilities. On the other hand, online programs provide flexibility, allowing you to complete coursework at your own pace and according to your schedule. This format may be especially beneficial for adult learners or those with work or family commitments.

Carefully evaluating your options and considering factors such as accreditation, program reputation, faculty expertise, and program format can help you choose the right history degree program to support your educational and career goals.

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Potential Career Paths for History Degree Graduates

History degree graduates have a variety of career paths available to them, ranging from teaching and research to journalism and museum work. Each career path has its requirements and potential job opportunities.

Teaching history typically requires a bachelor’s degree for entry-level positions in primary and secondary schools. However, a master’s or doctoral degree may be necessary for positions in higher education, such as college and university teaching. Job opportunities in this field include positions as history teachers, professors, and lecturers.

Research careers in history often require a master’s or doctoral degree, with positions available in academic institutions, government agencies, and research organizations. Job opportunities in this field include positions as historians, research analysts, and policy analysts.

Journalism is another potential career path for history degree graduates, as their research and analytical skills can be valuable assets in reporting on current events and historical context. Positions in this field may include news reporters, editors, and writers. While a history degree can be beneficial, journalism positions may also require additional training or experience in journalism or communication.

Additional career paths for history degree graduates include museum curation and historical consulting. These positions may require specialized training or expertise in specific historical periods or subjects and can involve working for museums, historic sites, and consulting firms.

A history degree can open doors to various career opportunities, from teaching and research to journalism and museum work. Graduates should carefully consider their interests and skills when pursuing a career in the field of history.

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Skills Developed through a History Degree

Studying history equips students with valuable skills that can be applied to various professional settings. Key competencies developed through a history degree include analytical and critical thinking, research skills, written and oral communication, and problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

History students learn to analyze historical events and trends, interpret complex information, and develop logical arguments. This fosters critical thinking abilities that are highly sought after in many professions.

Research skills are another essential component of a history degree. Students learn to locate, evaluate, and synthesize information from diverse sources, which can be applied across various industries and job roles.

Written and oral communication is a fundamental aspect of history education. Students practice presenting their ideas and findings effectively through essays, presentations, and discussions, honing their ability to articulate complex concepts clearly and concisely.

Lastly, history degree programs cultivate problem-solving and decision-making skills by requiring students to assess various factors, weigh evidence, and draw informed conclusions. These abilities are transferable to a wide range of professional contexts, making history graduates valuable assets in the workforce.

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Tips for Success in a History Degree Program

To maximize success in a history degree program, it is essential to develop effective study habits and time management skills, network with peers and professionals, pursue hands-on experiences and stay informed about current events and historical trends.

Developing strong study habits, such as setting goals, creating a study schedule, and prioritizing tasks, can help you stay organized and focused throughout your program. Time management skills are crucial, as balancing coursework, assignments, and other responsibilities can be challenging.

Networking with peers, professors, and professionals in the field can provide valuable connections, insights, and potential job opportunities. Attending conferences, joining professional organizations, and participating in online forums can expand your network and enhance your understanding of the discipline.

Pursuing internships and volunteer opportunities allows you to gain hands-on experience and practical knowledge, which can be invaluable when entering the job market. These experiences can also help you refine your interests and discover potential career paths.

Finally, staying informed about current events and historical trends can enrich your academic experience and broaden your perspective. Engaging with news articles, academic journals, and online discussions can help you stay up-to-date and foster a deeper understanding of the historical context shaping today’s world.

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Preparing for a Career in History

To successfully transition into a career in history, it’s essential to focus on networking, building a strong resume, and gaining experience through internships and volunteer opportunities.

Networking plays a crucial role in the field of history, as it can lead to job opportunities, mentorships, and collaborations. Some tips for successful networking include attending conferences, joining professional organizations, and connecting with peers and professionals in the field through social media.

When building a strong resume, tailor it for history-related positions by highlighting relevant skills and experience, such as research, writing, and critical thinking. Be sure to include any internships, volunteer work, or projects that demonstrate your expertise in the field.

Gaining experience through internships and volunteer opportunities can significantly impact your career prospects. These experiences can help you develop practical skills, expand your professional network, and showcase your commitment to the field. To find the right opportunities, consider reaching out to museums, historical societies, and research institutions, or explore internships and volunteer positions advertised on job boards and professional organization websites.

Preparing for a career in history involves strategic networking, building a tailored resume, and gaining relevant experience through internships and volunteer work. These steps can help ensure a smooth transition into the job market and increase your chances of finding a fulfilling position in the field of history.

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Conclusion

History degrees hold significant importance and relevance in today’s world, offering a strong foundation for understanding the past and analyzing contemporary issues. Graduates with history degrees can pursue various career paths, including teaching, research, journalism, museum curation, and historical consulting. As you consider pursuing a history degree and career, remember to focus on networking, building a strong resume, and gaining valuable experience through internships and volunteer opportunities.

For more guidance and support on education and career planning, visit Pathways2Advancement and explore the resources available, including career blogs, education blogs, and financial blogs, tailored to adult learners and non-traditional students. Let Pathways2Advancement help you achieve your educational goals and your career goals.

Resources for History Students

The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History:​​ https://www.gilderlehrman.org/history-resources

Newton Gresham Library: https://shsulibraryguides.org/teachhistory

Colorado Department of Education – World History Resources: https://www.cde.state.co.us/cosocialstudies/worldhistoryresources