Fastest Online Bachelor's in History Degree Programs for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

When considering a career in history, the first image that comes to mind is often a classroom or a museum archive. However, government data reveals a different story: 25% of historians work in professional, scientific, and technical services. This gap between perception and reality creates a significant challenge for many people, especially experienced professionals and transfer students who have a genuine passion for the past but need a practical degree to advance their careers.

The truth is that earning an online bachelor's in history is less about memorizing dates and more about mastering a powerful set of analytical skills that are in high demand across all sectors.

To help you bridge your passion with a clear professional path, our team of career planning experts has compiled this guide. It not only presents a list of top programs but also provides a framework for choosing the right one and leveraging it to achieve your career goals.

What are the benefits of getting a fast online bachelor's degree program?

Graduates are equipped for diverse analytical careers in fields such as law, public policy, and journalism, applying their research skills to complex societal challenges.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual wage of $74,050 for historians, reflecting the professional value of their expertise.
An online format provides critical flexibility to balance your education with professional and personal commitments, while also developing digital fluency and self-discipline.

What can I expect from a fast online bachelor's degree program?

You can expect a curriculum centered on analysis and interpretation, where you will learn to evaluate primary sources, deconstruct complex arguments, and build your own persuasive narratives based on solid evidence. This process sharpens your ability to think critically and communicate with precision—skills that are portable to almost any industry.

After graduation, you are equipped for diverse analytical careers in fields like law, journalism, and public policy. The online format provides the flexibility to manage these rigorous studies around your existing work and life commitments.

You will develop a deep understanding of historical forces while simultaneously building a resume of tangible skills that employers in both the public and private sectors actively seek.

Where can I work with a fast online bachelor's degree program?

While fields like education and museum curation are classic destinations for history graduates, the skills you develop open doors to a much wider professional world. The ability to research, synthesize complex information, and build a cohesive argument is highly valued in business, law, and government. Many graduates find success as policy advisors, corporate archivists, journalists, and nonprofit managers.

An exciting and growing field is digital humanities, where historical analysis meets modern technology. Professionals in this area might manage digital archives, conduct data analysis for consulting firms, or work in intelligence. These roles require identifying patterns in data to solve complex problems—a core skill developed in a history program.

How much can I make with a fast online bachelor's degree program?

A history degree provides a path to financially rewarding careers. While salaries vary by role and location, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual wage of $74,050 for historians. This figure provides a strong benchmark for the value of historical expertise in a professional capacity.

This earning potential is not limited to roles with "historian" in the title. The strong research, writing, and critical thinking skills developed in the program are what command professional salaries in related fields like law, policy analysis, and strategic communications. The degree is an investment in a versatile skillset.

Fastest Online Bachelor's in History Degree Programs for 2025
How long does it take to complete a fast online bachelor's degree program?
How does a fast online bachelor's degree compare to an on-campus program?
What is the average cost of the fastest online bachelor's degree programs?
What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in a fast online bachelor's degree program?
What are the prerequisites for enrolling in a fast online bachelor's degree program?
What courses are typically in a fast online bachelor's degree program?
What types of specializations are available in fast online bachelor's degree programs?
How can I verify the accreditation and quality of an online bachelor's degree program?
What advanced education options are available after a fast online bachelor's degree?
How to choose the best fast online bachelor's degree program?
What career paths are available for graduates of fast online bachelor's degree programs?
What is the job market for graduates with a fast online bachelor's degree program?
Other Things You Should Know About the Fastest Online Bachelor's in History Degree Programs

Fastest Online Bachelor's in History Degree Programs for 2025

If you want speed without sacrificing scholarly depth, these history programs deliver—matching the efficiency you see in the shortest bachelor's in mathematics online while keeping the focus squarely on research, analysis, and historical interpretation.

How do we rank schools?

At Research.com, we recognize that paying for a degree is a significant investment. That’s why our ranking of the fastest online bachelor’s in history programs is grounded in data-driven research and expert analysis to help students make informed, confident decisions. This list was developed by Research.com’s team of experts using a rigorous methodology.

To ensure accuracy and transparency, we gathered data from several reliable sources. We used the IPEDS database, Peterson’s database, the College Scorecard, and the National Center for Education Statistics to ensure we included the most current information available.

1. University of Louisiana at Monroe Bachelor of Arts in History

The University of Louisiana at Monroe offers a Bachelor of Arts in History designed to provide a foundational liberal arts education. This program is for students who want to develop a factual understanding of the past to build a better future. Learners will master skills in historical research and analysis, preparing them for diverse careers in law, journalism, public relations, and civil service.

Program Length: 4 years
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Cost per Credit: $613.40
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

2. American Public University Online Bachelor of Arts in History

American Public University provides an Online Bachelor of Arts in History that explores the events, people, and cultures that have shaped modern civilization. The program is designed for individuals seeking to think critically and analytically about the past. Students learn to evaluate primary and secondary sources, analyze historical arguments, and conduct independent research, culminating in a major research paper.

Program Length: 4 years
Concentrations: General; American History; Global History; and European History
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Cost Per Credit: $350
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

3. University of Maine Presque Isle Online History Degree

The University of Maine at Presque Isle features an Online History Degree that gives students the tools to understand and shape the world by examining key historical forces. It is structured for learners who need a flexible, year-round schedule and personalized support from a dedicated advisor. The curriculum develops a student's ability to interpret, analyze, and communicate effectively across a variety of professional and academic settings.

Program Length: 3-4 years
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Cost per Credit: $268.00 resident/Canadian, $457.00 non-resident
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

4. University of Illinois at Springfield Bachelor of Arts in History

The University of Illinois at Springfield offers a flexible Bachelor of Arts in History available both online and on-campus. This program is ideal for students who want a high-quality humanities education with the option to learn asynchronously, especially transfer students with at least 30 credit hours. Students will learn to critically analyze historical texts, construct narratives from primary sources, and design projects for public audiences.

Program Length: 4 years
Concentrations: World History
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Cost per Credit: $299.50 resident, $632.00 non-resident
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

5. Nicholls State University Bachelor of Arts in History

Nicholls State University provides an online Bachelor of Arts in History focused on modern America, Europe, and Asia. The program is geared toward students who desire a flexible, career-oriented education that prepares them for graduate school or diverse professional fields. Learners develop the ability to think critically, write coherently, and identify significant issues shaping the modern world.

Program Length: 4 years
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Cost per Credit: $402.13
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

6. Arizona State University Online Bachelor of Arts in History

Arizona State University's Online Bachelor of Arts in History examines the growth and development of human society from political, social, economic, and cultural perspectives. The program is intended for individuals interested in careers in law, business, education, and policy-making who want to assess evidence and draw informed conclusions about the world.

Program Length: 4 years
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Cost per Credit: $580 resident, $3,480 non-resident
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

7. Valley City State University BA in History

Valley City State University offers a BA in History that provides a broad curriculum in U.S., European, and World history. This non-teaching degree is designed for students aiming for careers in law, government service, or as archivists, as well as those preparing for graduate studies. The program sharpens critical thinking, research, and precise writing skills, which are highly sought after by employers.

Program Length: 4 years
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Cost per Credit: $232.76 resident, $260.70 Minnesota reciprocity, $290.95 Midwest student exchange program, $407.34 non-resident/international
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

8. University of Central Florida – Online History, BA

The University of Central Florida's Online History, B.A. is designed to expand a student's understanding of the complex societal forces that shape our world. It is tailored for learners who wish to hone their critical thinking and analytical skills while gaining a deep appreciation for historical events. Students will learn to critically assess events, navigate archival materials, and express complex arguments persuasively.

Program Length: 4 years
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Cost per Credit: $179.19 resident, $715.80 non-resident
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

9. University of Memphis – Bachelor of Arts in History Online

The University of Memphis offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Arts in History, available fully online, on-campus, or as a hybrid. The program is designed for students who want to understand historical events and differing interpretations thoroughly. Learners will be able to analyze primary sources, evaluate historical methodologies, and present clear, well-researched arguments.

Program Length: 4 years
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Cost per Credit: $447
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

10. University of North Alabama – BA or BS in History

The University of North Alabama offers a BA or BS in History that requires a foreign language component and a minor or second major. This program is structured for students seeking a traditional liberal arts education that builds a strong foundation in historical knowledge and research. Students complete core courses in World and U.S. history before advancing to specialized electives and a senior thesis.

Program Length: 4 years
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Cost per Credit: $340
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

How long does it take to complete a fast online bachelor's degree program?

The standard for a bachelor’s degree, including an online bachelor's in history, is 120 credit hours. As you can see from the programs on our list, this requirement is consistent across institutions. A full-time student typically completes this in four years.

However, the term “fast" or “accelerated" does not mean the 120-credit requirement is waived. Instead, it refers to programs structured to help you complete those credits in a shorter timeframe—much like the shortest online bachelor's programs in sustainability that compress coursework without cutting corners. The most significant factor in accelerating your degree is the number of transfer credits you bring with you from an associate's degree or previous college coursework.

Many programs are specifically designed to be transfer-friendly, allowing students to apply a large number of existing credits toward their degree and finish in as little as two years. Your interest in understanding the past is shared by many, with a recent survey showing that a majority of people are drawn to history to understand the present.

An accelerated program allows you to act on that interest and earn a valuable credential efficiently. The key is to speak with an admissions advisor early to get a clear evaluation of your transferable credits.

How does a fast online bachelor's degree compare to an on-campus program?

Online education has become a widely accepted and respected path to earning a degree, with employers increasingly viewing online and on-campus credentials as equal—a perception echoed in fields offering the shortest master's in educational counseling online programs. When you are considering a program from an accredited institution, like the ones on our list, the core differences are not about academic quality but about the learning experience and structure.

Both formats have distinct characteristics, and understanding them is key to choosing the right fit.

Academic Standards and Curriculum: For any accredited university, the academic heart of the program is the same. Online students learn from the same curriculum, are taught by the same qualified faculty, and must meet the exact same graduation requirements as their on-campus peers. The final diploma is identical.
Learning Format and Interaction: On-campus programs offer face-to-face interaction and a structured daily schedule. Online programs offer flexibility through two main formats: synchronous, which requires logging in for live virtual classes at set times, and asynchronous, which allows you to complete coursework on your own schedule within a given week.
Flexibility and Pace: The primary advantage of an online program is its flexibility, allowing you to fit education around your work and family life. An on-campus program provides a more traditional, immersive experience that is built around the university's schedule.

The most important factor is choosing a fully accredited program. From there, the decision between online and on-campus is about finding the structure that best aligns with your personal learning style and life commitments. An online degree offers the same quality education, just delivered in a way that fits the demands of a modern schedule.

What is the average cost of the fastest online bachelor's degree programs?

The cost of an online bachelor's in history varies significantly between institutions. As shown in our list, some universities, like the University of Central Florida, offer a per-credit rate of around $179 for in-state students, while others, like American Public University, have a standard rate of $350 per credit. Students in the shortest medical billing and coding certificate online programs quickly learn that per-credit prices are only part of the equation.

To estimate the total tuition, you would multiply the per-credit cost by the 120 credits typically required for graduation. However, this number does not include other potential expenses like technology fees or the cost of digital textbooks. It is essential to review the full tuition and fees schedule for any program you are seriously considering.

Calculating Your Return on Investment

While the initial cost is a critical factor, it is only one part of the financial picture. A more complete analysis involves weighing that cost against the degree's potential return on investment (ROI). The skills in research, analysis, and communication you acquire are designed to prepare you for professional roles.

As the data below shows, the median salary for historians is over $74,000 annually. By viewing the tuition as an investment that unlocks access to this level of earning potential, you can make a more strategic and confident decision about your future.

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What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in a fast online bachelor's degree program?

Students enrolled in accredited online degree programs are eligible for the same types of financial aid as their on-campus counterparts. The key to unlocking these resources is to be proactive and thorough in your applications.

Most universities have dedicated financial aid advisors who can help you understand your options and navigate the process, whether you’re pursuing a fast online bachelor’s degree or even an accelerated online cybersecurity training program.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): This is the single most important form you can fill out. FAFSA determines your eligibility for most federal, state, and even institutional aid, including grants and loans. It should be your first step.
Federal Grants: These are funds that you do not have to repay. The Pell Grant is the most common federal grant for undergraduate students with significant financial need.
Federal Student Loans: These are borrowed funds that must be repaid with interest. They typically offer more favorable terms than private loans. They come in two forms: subsidized (interest is paid by the government while you're in school) and unsubsidized.
Scholarships and Institutional Aid: Many universities offer scholarships based on academic merit, field of study, or financial need. Be sure to check the history department's and the university's websites for specific opportunities.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): If you plan to work in government or for a qualifying nonprofit organization after graduation, this federal program may forgive the remainder of your federal student loans after you make 120 qualifying monthly payments.

The best approach is to start with the FAFSA as soon as possible and then schedule a meeting with a financial aid advisor at the schools you are considering. They can provide a clear picture of what your financial aid package might look like.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in a fast online bachelor's degree program?

Admission requirements for an online history degree — or even an accelerated online bachelor's degree for early childhood education — vary depending on your educational background. Programs have different pathways for first-time college students and for students who are transferring from another institution. Understanding which category you fall into is the first step in preparing your application.

For First-Time College Students

If you are applying to college for the first time or have very few prior credits, you will typically need to submit the following:

A completed application form.
Official high school transcripts or a GED equivalent.
Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT), although many universities have become test-optional in recent years.
Sometimes, a personal essay or letters of recommendation may be required.

For Transfer Students

If you have already earned college credits, particularly if you have an associate's degree, the process is different. The primary focus will be on your college-level work. You will generally be required to provide:

A completed transfer application.
Official transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities.
A minimum GPA, which is typically around 2.0 to 2.5, though more competitive programs may require a higher average.

Meeting these prerequisites is the crucial first step. Earning a bachelor's degree is the foundational requirement for advancing to specialized graduate programs or professions. Whether you want to enter law school or pursue a highly specific field like figuring out what can you do with a forensic science degree, the B.A. is the essential credential that makes those next steps possible.

What courses are typically in a fast online bachelor's degree program?

While a recent survey reveals that 66% of the public defines history as a collection of facts, an academic history program is focused on something different: interpretation. The curriculum is designed to move you beyond memorization and teach you how to analyze evidence, construct arguments, and write persuasively.

While specific course titles vary, you can expect a structure that builds these skills progressively — much like how accelerated online ESL graduate certificate programs structure their coursework to rapidly develop language teaching proficiency.

Foundational Surveys: Most programs, like the one at the University of North Alabama, require core surveys in U.S. and World History. These courses provide a broad chronological framework and introduce you to major historical events and themes.
Historical Methods or Historiography: This is a crucial skills-based course. You will learn how historians conduct research and "do" history. It focuses on evaluating sources, understanding different interpretive schools of thought, and crafting a research plan. The skills of evidence analysis are so fundamental that they are even relevant to meeting homicide detective qualifications.
Upper-Level Electives: These courses allow you to explore specific topics in depth. You might find classes on Modern Asia, as offered at Nicholls State University, or on cultural and political history, like those at Arizona State University.
Senior Seminar or Capstone Thesis: The degree often culminates in a capstone project or a major research paper. This is your opportunity to synthesize all the skills you've learned and produce an original piece of historical research on a topic of your choosing.

This core curriculum provides a robust foundation in historical thinking and analysis. Many programs then allow you to focus your upper-level electives on a specific area of interest. These specializations are a powerful way to tailor your degree toward a particular career path, which we will explore in the next section.

What types of specializations are available in fast online bachelor's degree programs?

A specialization is how you focus your degree and signal your specific expertise to employers. While a general history degree builds a versatile foundation, choosing a concentration allows you to develop deeper knowledge in a particular area, making you a more competitive candidate for jobs in that field.

Many programs, including American Public University on our list, offer concentrations to help you tailor your education.

Public History: This is one of the most career-focused specializations, preparing you for work in museums, archives, and historical preservation societies. You could work as a community historian, archivist, or curator, making history accessible to the public. This track is an excellent foundation for pursuing a graduate degree like an MLIS degree online.
American History: This track provides deep contextual knowledge for careers in U.S. government, journalism, and public policy. Graduates can work as legislative aides, political correspondents, or researchers for think tanks, analyzing current events through a historical lens.
European or Global History: For those interested in international affairs, this specialization is invaluable. It prepares you for careers in diplomacy, international business, and organizations like the U.S. Department of State, where a deep understanding of global cultures and political histories is essential.
Digital Humanities: This modern specialization merges historical analysis with technology. It equips you to manage large digital archives, conduct data analysis for consulting firms, or create digital media for educational institutions.
Military History: This specialization is well-suited for careers in the defense industry, intelligence community, and federal government. It hones strategic thinking skills applicable to roles like intelligence analyst, military consultant, or government contractor.
Legal and Constitutional History: An ideal choice for pre-law students, this specialization focuses on the history of law, legal institutions, and key court decisions. It prepares you for roles as a paralegal, policy analyst, or compliance officer in both corporate and government settings. Pursuing this specialization is also a great way to explore jobs in related fields, like what kind of jobs can you get with a political science degree.

From Specialization to Employment

Choosing a specialization is a direct strategy for targeting a specific employment sector. The data on where historians work validates this approach. For example, a specialization in Public History or American History can provide a direct pathway into the 23% of historian roles found in state and local government.

Likewise, the 25% of historians employed in professional, scientific, and technical services underscores the demand for skills sharpened in Digital Humanities and Legal History tracks. Your specialization is what translates your academic passion into a professional direction.

How can I verify the accreditation and quality of an online bachelor's degree program?

Evaluating accreditation and institutional quality is essential in confirming that an online history program meets established academic and professional standards. Begin by confirming that the school is regionally accredited by a recognized accrediting agency, which not only underpins academic rigor but also assures that credits are widely transferable. Research the program's external reviews, graduation outcomes, and support services such as tutoring or career counseling. In addition, assess the qualifications and real-world expertise of the faculty to ensure that teaching methods align with current industry practices. For further insight into advanced, accelerated programs, consider exploring the fastest EdD online program, which demonstrates a commitment to maintaining robust academic standards alongside flexible learning options.

What advanced education options are available after a fast online bachelor's degree?

Graduates looking to build on the analytical strengths and flexible learning experience of a fast online bachelor's degree may consider advanced study as a strategic next step. Expanding your qualifications through specialized master’s or doctoral programs can deepen subject matter expertise and pave the way for leadership opportunities within your field. For example, targeted online programs in educational leadership are designed to further refine critical decision-making and management skills. Prospective students might explore options such as the cheapest online doctoral degree in educational leadership to transition into high-level administrative roles. This pathway complements a history degree’s focus on critical analysis with advanced competencies in strategy and organizational leadership.

How to choose the best fast online bachelor's degree program?

Choosing the "best" online bachelor's in history is not about finding a single top-ranked school; it is about finding the program that is the best fit for your specific academic background, career goals, and life circumstances.

By systematically evaluating a few key factors, you can move from a long list of options to a confident final decision — the same careful approach you might take when selecting an accelerated graduate certificate in early childhood education online program.

The Golden Rule: Accreditation: This is the most important factor. Ensure the university is regionally accredited (e.g., by HLC, SACSCOC, NECHE). This guarantees that the degree is legitimate, that credits are transferable, and that you will be eligible for federal financial aid. All programs on our list hold regional accreditation.
Transfer Credit and Prior Learning Policies: If you have an associate's degree or other college credits, a program's transfer policy is your key to acceleration. Ask for a preliminary credit evaluation before you apply. Some schools, like Valley City State University, also offer internship opportunities that provide real-world experience.
Program Format: Decide if you prefer a synchronous format with scheduled online class times or an asynchronous format that offers maximum flexibility. This choice should align with your learning style and weekly schedule. The University of Illinois at Springfield, for example, highlights its asynchronous options.
Faculty and Specializations: Look at the specializations offered and the expertise of the faculty who teach in them. If you want to pursue a career in public policy, choose a program with strong faculty in American political history.
Total Cost and Financial Aid: Look beyond the per-credit tuition. Consider all fees and compare the net cost after factoring in any financial aid packages offered by the university.

Making a deliberate choice based on these factors does more than just select a school; it sets the foundation for your professional life after graduation. The specializations you choose and the skills you develop will directly inform the career paths available to you, which we will explore next.

What career paths are available for graduates of fast online bachelor's degree programs?

A history degree does not lead to a single, narrow career path but instead opens up a wide range of professional fields. The key is to recognize that you are not just learning about the past; you are mastering a set of high-demand skills in research, analysis, and communication. This versatile toolkit can be applied in almost any industry that requires clear thinking and evidence-based decision-making.

Legal and Policy Analysis

The skills honed in a history program—analyzing texts, understanding precedent, and constructing complex arguments—are a direct match for the legal and policy worlds. This path can lead to roles as a paralegal, legislative aide, or policy analyst for a government agency or nonprofit think tank, where you will use your research abilities to inform and shape critical decisions.

Information and Archive Management

Every large organization, from corporations to universities, has a history that must be preserved and managed. This path leads to careers in library science, corporate archiving, and information management. You would be responsible for organizing vast amounts of information, making it accessible, and helping organizations understand their own institutional memory.

Strategic Communications and Journalism

History is fundamentally about telling a true and compelling story based on evidence. This narrative skill is invaluable in journalism, public relations, and content marketing. On this path, you could work as a reporter, a communications director for a major company, or a content strategist, using your ability to synthesize complex topics into clear and persuasive stories.

Research and Intelligence Analysis

This career path leverages the core research skills of a historian in a direct way. Both government agencies and private corporations need professionals who can gather vast amounts of information, identify patterns, and produce concise, actionable reports. This skill set is essential to meeting crime analyst job requirements and is also highly sought after in fields like market research and corporate intelligence.

Public and Digital Humanities

This path focuses on bringing history to the public through modern tools. You might work for a museum designing interactive exhibits, for a university developing online educational materials, or for a media company creating historical documentaries or podcasts. It is a dynamic field that combines historical knowledge with creativity and technological skill.

While these career paths showcase the immense potential of a history degree, it is also essential to have a clear-eyed view of the professional landscape. Understanding the current job market and growth projections for these fields is the final piece of the puzzle, which we will discuss next.

What is the job market for graduates with a fast online bachelor's degree program?

In a world filled with data and competing narratives, the ability to critically analyze sources and tell a clear, evidence-based story is more valuable than ever. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects job growth for historians to be on par with the average for all occupations.

However, this statistic for a single job title does not capture the full demand for historians in the workforce. The true market for graduates is found in the wide range of professions that require strong analytical and communication abilities.

One unique opportunity lies in public engagement. With the median age of visitors to historic sites being 65, there is a clear need for professionals who can create new programs and use digital media to engage younger generations with the past. Furthermore, the meticulous attention to detail and evidence required in historical research is directly applicable to technical fields.

The rigorous process of documenting sources and building a case has parallels with the practical steps to become a crime scene technician, a career that also relies on careful observation and methodical reporting.

For those looking to maximize their competitiveness, an online bachelor's in history serves as an excellent foundation that can be enhanced with graduate certificates, a master's degree, or other credentials in a chosen specialty. This approach allows you to combine your broad analytical skills with targeted, in-demand expertise.

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Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Fast Online Bachelor's in History Degree Programs

"I came into the program with an associate's degree from years ago, feeling like I’d never finish. The online format was perfect because I could transfer nearly all my credits and build a schedule that worked around my job. Honestly, the biggest feeling was relief. I finally completed my bachelor’s in just under two years without having to start all over again." - Karen

"After 15 years in my field, I kept hitting a ceiling because I didn't have a B.A. This program recognized my professional experience for actual academic credit, which felt incredibly validating. It wasn't just about the diploma; it was about having my real-world knowledge formally acknowledged, which directly led to the promotion I’d been working toward." -Soren

"My plan has always been law school, and this degree was the perfect preparation. The constant work of analyzing primary sources and building evidence-based arguments was like a bootcamp for the kind of thinking I’ll have to do every day as a lawyer. Managing my own schedule with the online coursework also taught me a level of discipline I wouldn't have gotten otherwise." - Moira

Key Findings

A history degree provides a path to financially rewarding careers, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting a median annual wage of $74,050 for historians, reflecting the professional value placed on these analytical skills.
Contrary to common belief, career paths for history graduates extend well beyond academia, with 25% of historians employed in the professional, scientific, and technical services sector.
While 66% of the public perceives history as memorizing facts, an academic program focuses on teaching interpretation and analysis—a more valuable skill set for today’s job market.
The primary motivation for studying history aligns with a key societal need, as 66% of the public reports that they turn to the past to better understand the present.
A significant market opportunity exists for graduates in public history, as data showing the median age of visitors to historic sites is 65 reveals a critical need to engage younger demographics.
Choosing a specialization is a direct career strategy, with tracks like Public and American History providing a clear pathway into the state and local government sector, which employs 23% of professional historians.

Other Things You Should Know About the Fastest Online Bachelor's in History Degree Programs

Can you call yourself a historian with a bachelor's degree?

While a bachelor's degree provides you with the skills of a historian, the professional title "historian" is typically reserved for those with advanced graduate degrees, such as a master's or Ph.D., who work in academic or research settings.

However, your Bachelor of Arts in History fully equips you with the core professional abilities of a historian—research, analysis, and argumentation. These skills qualify you for a wide range of analytical jobs in law, policy, business, and information management.

Is history a BA or BS?

A history degree is almost always a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.). This is because the major is grounded in the liberal arts and humanities, emphasizing essential skills like critical thinking, extensive reading, analytical writing, and constructing persuasive arguments. A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree program typically requires more coursework in quantitative fields like mathematics and the natural sciences, which is not the primary focus of a traditional history curriculum.

Is history a difficult major?

The difficulty of a history major depends on a student's individual strengths. It is generally not considered difficult because of memorization, but it is challenging due to the high volume of critical reading and analytical writing that is required. Success in history demands that students analyze complex sources, develop original interpretations, and defend their arguments with well-researched evidence, which is a rigorous intellectual process.

What are the 5 C's of studying history?

The 5 C's of History are a conceptual framework that historians use to analyze and interpret the past.

They include Change over time, which examines how and why things evolve; Context, which involves placing historical events within their broader social, political, and cultural setting; Causality, which explores the multiple and complex causes of an event; Contingency, which recognizes that historical outcomes were not inevitable and could have been different; and Complexity, which acknowledges that the past is multifaceted and resists simple explanations.

References:

Fairbank, Maslin, Maullin, Metz & Associates (FM3), & American Historical Association (AHA). (2021, August). History, the Past, and Public Culture in the United States: A Survey of the American Public [Report]. American Historical Association.
Schmidt, B. M. (2024, April). Tracking undergraduate history enrollments in 2023. American Historical Association.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, September 6). Historians. In Occupational Outlook Handbook.
University of Wisconsin–Madison. (n.d.). Why history? Department of History.
Wilkening Consulting. (2024, February 28). Breaking down visitation by museum type: A 2024 annual survey of museum-goers data story. American Alliance of Museums.