2023 Best Online Master's Degrees in History

American Public University System (APUS) is a private, for-profit institution that offers two online degrees in history: (1) Master of Arts in History (36 credit hours) and a (2) Master of Arts in Military History (36 credit hours). The first program offers four concentrations, while the second offers five. It can take one year to complete either of these programs.

APUS facilitates asynchronous learning (meaning students can study at their own pace) through D2L Brightspace, a popular learning management system (LMS). A master’s in history often prepares students for a doctoral degree or a teaching career. Sample courses are Historiography, Historical Research Methods, and Studies in U.S. Military History. Both programs mentioned above require either a thesis or a capstone project. Potential career opportunities for graduates include researchers, record managers, and content producers.

The University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) is a public institution offering an online Master of Arts in History, which totals 36 credit hours. Full-time students can usually expect to complete the program within one year. Students can choose from three options: (1) Thesis, (2) Non-Thesis, or (3) Public History.

UNK facilitates asynchronous and synchronous distance learning on the LMS Canvas. The program’s curriculum helps students pursue high-level positions with leadership opportunities. Some of the program’s courses are America Interpreted, Historical Methods, and Digital History. Depending on the options students may choose, they may be required to complete a thesis, internship, or a directed research project. Prospective careers include archaeologists, educators, and museum directors.

At Norwich University — a private, nonprofit institution — prospective students can pursue an online Master of Arts in History requiring 36 credit hours. It can take 18 months to complete the program if students maintain a full-time pace throughout their studies. The program offers two primary areas of study that students can choose from: (1) North American History and (2) Global History.

Norwich's online students complete coursework asynchronously and synchronously, depending on the instructor. This program’s curriculum provides a comprehensive overview of major historical events. Some of the courses include Introduction to Public History, Museum Studies, and Total War. Depending on the selected track, Norwich may require its students to finish a capstone project, research seminar, and/or thesis before graduation. Alumni may go on to pursue careers as archivists, digital historians, and curators.

Arizona State University (ASU) is a public institution offering two online master’s degrees in history: (1) Master of Arts in World War II Studies (30 credit hours) and (2) Master of Arts in History (30 credit hours). The second program offers two areas of study: (1) North American History and (2) Global History. Full-time students can expect to complete either of these programs within a year.

ASU facilitates asynchronous and synchronous online learning via Canvas. The master’s programs in history provide students with a glimpse into specific historical periods. Sample courses include Global History, Historical Methods, and North American History. A capstone is also required for either program. Future careers for students may include archivists, educators, and publishers.

Sam Houston State University (SHSU) is a public institution that offers an online Master of Arts in History requiring 30-36 credit hours. Students can choose a thesis or non-thesis option, as well as from three tracks: (1) Encounters and Exchanges, (2) Rights and Identity, and (3) War and Violence. Prospective students who are studying full time can expect to spend at least one year completing the program.

At SHSU, online students complete coursework asynchronously and synchronously on Blackboard. The history program’s curriculum helps students critically analyze historical events, with courses such as Methods in History, Intellectual History, and World Historiography. Additionally, a seminar is required for graduation. Potential career opportunities for graduates include journalists, political advisors, and museum curators.