Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in History for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an online master’s in history program?

You can expect a rigorous academic experience that goes far beyond undergraduate studies. The curriculum is built around core courses in historiography, the study of how history is written, and advanced research methods. This means you'll spend less time memorizing dates and more time analyzing sources and developing your own interpretations, which requires significant self-discipline in a flexible format.

You're not alone on this path, as 57% of online graduate students are specifically seeking a master's degree. Choosing an affordable online master’s in history is a popular and practical way to gain these advanced skills. The ultimate goal is to equip you with the analytical toolkit of a professional historian, ready for the demands of the field.

Where can I work with an online master’s in history degree?

A master's in history opens doors to a wide range of fields, including museums, archives, government, and private corporations. While education is the leading industry for historians, employing 31% of them, the career paths extend far beyond teaching or museum work.

Your advanced research and analytical skills are highly valued across many sectors. You could work as a policy analyst for a federal agency, a corporate archivist for a major company, or a research consultant for a law firm, applying historical context to modern challenges.

How much can I make with an online master’s in history degree?

Your earning potential with this degree depends heavily on your career path. While the average salary for a historian is around $86,335 per year, this number is influenced by your location, industry, and experience level. Think of this as a baseline from which your strategic decisions can build.

The key is targeting high-value sectors. For instance, the federal government is the highest-paying industry for historians, with a median annual wage of $114,650. This shows that a master's in history can be a powerful financial asset when you align your studies with these lucrative career paths.

List of the Most Affordable Online Master’s Degrees in History for 2025

Earning a graduate degree doesn’t always mean going into heavy debt. Universities now design flexible, low-cost online options for working professionals and career changers. For some students, comparing history programs alongside alternatives like an ALA accredited online master's in library science helps highlight affordability, accreditation, and long-term career value.

1. Oregon State University – M.A./M.S. in History

Oregon State University provides a cohort-based program that emphasizes evidence-based analysis and critical empathy for public debate and diverse career paths. Students tailor their studies through distinct options in community history and civic engagement or global perspectives on war, peace, and empire.

• Program Length: ~18 months
• Required Quarter Credits to Graduate: 45
• Cost per Credit: $582
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

2. Southern New Hampshire University – M.A. in History

Southern New Hampshire University focuses on developing advanced research, writing, and critical-thinking skills applicable across many industries. The program allows for deep specialization through concentrations in American, military, or public history, with the degree attainable in as few as 15 months.

• Program Length: As few as 15 months
• Required Credits to Graduate: 33
• Cost per Credit: $659
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

3. Arizona State University – M.A. in History

Arizona State University offers a program designed to help you comprehend the present and influence the future through the study of global societies. The curriculum is delivered in accelerated 7.5-week classes, fostering a collaborative community setting as you prepare for a capstone project.

• Program Length: ~2 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30
• Cost per Credit: $1,396.27
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

4. Liberty University – M.A. in History

Liberty University offers a flexible curriculum taught from a biblical perspective, designed to prepare you for a wide range of career and academic goals. The program emphasizes core historiography and research skills while allowing you to pursue your specific interests within a Christian worldview.

• Program Length: ~2 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 36
• Cost per Credit: $580
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

5. Eastern Washington University – M.A. in History

Eastern Washington University delivers the only fully online history master's program of its kind in the Pacific Northwest. A key feature is the capstone course, which focuses on creating a professional work portfolio to help you advance or change your career path.

• Program Length: As few as 8 months
• Required Credits to Graduate: 45
• Cost per Credit: $335
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

6. Texas Tech University – M.A. in History

Texas Tech University provides a non-thesis program focused on professional enrichment for careers in fields like education, public history, and government. Instead of a traditional thesis, you will complete a three-part capstone portfolio and an oral defense to demonstrate your analytical skills.

• Program Length: ~1-2 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30
• Cost per Credit: $891.73
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

7. Missouri State University – M.A. in History

Missouri State University offers a fully asynchronous program, allowing you to complete coursework on your schedule. The curriculum is structured around your choice of U.S. History, World History, or a combined track, with an optional thesis path for those considering future doctoral work.

• Program Length: ~1.5 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30
• Cost per Credit: $394
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

8. Pittsburg State University – M.A. in History

Pittsburg State University offers a program well-suited for secondary teachers, with in-state tuition rates for all online students. You can tailor your final project to your career goals by choosing between a traditional thesis, an applied research project, or a coursework portfolio.

• Program Length: ~2 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30-33
• Cost per Credit: $456
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

9. Western Kentucky University – M.A. in History

Western Kentucky University prepares you for teaching roles or future doctoral studies through a program that emphasizes close interaction with faculty in small online classes. The curriculum is built around core courses in historiography and research methods, culminating in a comprehensive final exam.

• Program Length: ~1.5-2 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 34
• Cost per Credit: $707
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

10. Indiana State University – M.A. in History

Indiana State University’s program prepares you for entry into doctoral programs or for careers in fields like law, business, and government service. It also offers a distinct 18-credit online graduate certificate specifically designed for high school teachers seeking to teach dual-credit courses.

• Program Length: ~2 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 33
• Cost per Credit: $462
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

How long does it take to complete an online master’s degree in history?

Most online master's programs in history take about 1.5 to 2 years to complete if you're a full-time student. However, because many students are balancing their studies with work or family, a part-time schedule is very common. Enrolling part-time typically extends the timeline to 3 or 4 years, offering the flexibility you need to earn your degree without putting your life on hold.

The exact duration can also depend on the program's specific structure. A program with a required master's thesis, for instance, might take a bit longer than a non-thesis track that ends with a capstone project. Some students entering these programs are already familiar with a faster pace, having completed an accelerated bachelor's degree in history online. The key is to find a program that fits your personal and professional timeline.

How does an online master’s in history compare to an on-campus program?

When it comes to comparing online and on-campus programs, the most important factor is accreditation. For any regionally accredited institution, the curriculum, faculty standards, and academic rigor are comparable. The diploma you earn will be the same. The real differences are in the learning experience and format.

Online Master's in History Programs

The biggest advantage of an online program is flexibility. You can fit your coursework around your job and personal life, which is a major benefit for working professionals. Modern programs also build strong digital communities and teach you valuable tech skills. This format has become widely accepted, just like the now-common online bachelor's degree in history.

On-Campus Master's in History Programs

An on-campus program offers the traditional university experience. The primary benefits are face-to-face interaction with professors and peers and direct access to physical resources like libraries and archives. This can be great for networking, but it comes at the cost of the flexibility that online programs provide. Ultimately, accreditation ensures that both formats deliver a high-quality education.

What is the average cost of an online master’s degree in history?

As seen in the graphic below, the median tuition for a master's degree at a public university is just $7,605 for in-state students. In contrast, the median cost at a private university is $37,240. 

Looking at the specific programs we've analyzed, the average total tuition is around $21,731, with a wide range from as low as $11,820 to over $41,000. Your goal is to find an affordable online master’s in history that aligns with the lower end of that spectrum. This strategic approach to cost is crucial in any field; for example, students also carefully research the cheapest anthropology online programs to manage their educational debt. 

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online master’s in history program?

When you're planning how to pay for your degree, it's important to know that financial aid for graduate students is different from undergraduate aid. The options are primarily focused on loans, which is why choosing an affordable program from the start is so critical.

Here are the main funding sources to explore.

• Federal Student Loans: This is the most common source of funding for master's students, and you should always start here. You'll need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to access them, as they typically offer the best interest rates and repayment terms.
• Private Student Loans: These are offered by banks and private lenders and can help fill any funding gaps. However, their terms are often less favorable than federal loans, so they should be considered a secondary option.
• Scholarships and Grants: While less common for master's programs than for other degrees, some funding is available. Look for opportunities from historical societies, professional organizations, and the universities themselves.
• Employer Tuition Assistance: If you're currently employed, especially in education or a related field, check if your employer offers tuition reimbursement. This is an excellent way to fund your degree without taking on debt.
• Military and Veteran Benefits: If you have served in the military, programs like the GI Bill can provide significant funding for your graduate education.

Employer support is often overlooked. Many organizations are open to reimbursement agreements, especially when coursework aligns with leadership or strategy roles. This approach resembles how professionals in healthcare evaluate the advantages of being a family nurse practitioner, balancing upfront costs with long-term career security and higher earning potential.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online master’s in history program?

Getting into a master's program is a straightforward process, and this degree is the right credential for the job. Data shows that a master's is the most common educational requirement for historians, with 64% of roles asking for it. Most programs look for a similar set of application materials to assess your readiness for graduate-level work.

Here’s what you'll typically need to prepare.

• Accredited Bachelor's Degree: You'll need a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution. While many applicants have a history background, some of the cheapest online history degree programs can be a great starting point, and programs often accept degrees in related fields like political science or anthropology.
• Minimum GPA: Most programs require a minimum undergraduate GPA of around 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• Statement of Purpose: This is a short essay where you explain your academic interests, career goals, and why you are a good fit for their specific program.
• Academic Writing Sample: This is often the most important part of your application. You'll submit a research paper from a previous course to demonstrate your ability to analyze sources and construct a historical argument.
• Letters of Recommendation: You will need two or three letters from former professors or professional supervisors who can speak to your academic abilities and work ethic.
• GRE Scores: Many programs no longer require the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE), so be sure to check the specific requirements for each school you're interested in.

What courses are typically offered in an online master’s in history program?

An online master’s in history program usually combines core courses with electives and research-focused classes, giving students both breadth and depth in the field. Here are the types of courses you can expect to form the core of your studies.

• Historiography: This is the cornerstone of graduate study. In these courses, you'll study the history of historical writing itself, analyzing how different historians have interpreted the same events over time.
• Research Methods: This is your practical training. You'll learn how to locate, analyze, and interpret primary sources, from archival documents to oral histories, and use them to build your own arguments.
• Thematic Seminars: These are deep dives into specific historical topics, such as the Civil Rights Movement or the history of science, allowing you to explore areas of interest with a small group of peers.
• Geographic Seminars: Similar to thematic seminars, these courses focus on the history of a particular region, like Modern China or the Atlantic World, providing specialized knowledge.
• Capstone or Thesis: Your program will culminate in a major research project. This is your opportunity to conduct original research and produce a significant piece of historical writing that demonstrates your mastery of the field.

In exploring graduate-level online education, other programs follow a similar structure of core courses, specialized seminars, and capstone projects. For instance, an accelerated MSN in forensic nursing online combines advanced nursing foundations with forensic and legal studies, showing how online degrees balance academic rigor with practical application.

What types of specializations are available in an online master’s in history program?

Choosing a specialization is one of the most important decisions you'll make, as it's how you align your academic training with a specific career path. Think of these not just as areas of interest, but as direct professional tracks. A strong compensation package often follows, with 58% of historians receiving paid time off and 57% having health insurance.

Here are the most common specializations and the careers they lead to.

• Public History: This is a broad, career-focused track that prepares you for work in museums, historical societies, national parks, and cultural resource management. You'll learn how to present history to a general audience.
• Archival Studies and Records Management: This specialization provides the professional training to become an archivist. You'll learn how to appraise, preserve, and manage historical records for governments, universities, or corporations.
• Museum Studies: If your goal is to work in a museum, this is the most direct path. The curriculum focuses on collections management, exhibit design, and museum administration.
• Digital Humanities: This is a modern, cutting-edge field that combines historical research with technology. It prepares you for roles in digital archiving, online exhibits, and data analysis for historical projects.
• Geographic and Thematic Concentrations: These are the more traditional academic paths, such as U.S. History or World War II studies. They are an excellent choice if you're considering pursuing a Ph.D. or a career in government research.

Specializations can also connect to broader academic or career tracks. For example, pairing historical research skills with criminological study prepares students for roles tied to the best jobs in criminology, such as policy analysis, federal investigations, or justice system reform.

How to Choose the Best Affordable Online Master’s in History Program

Now that you understand all the components, it's time to put them together into a clear decision-making plan. The best affordable online master’s in history program for you is regionally accredited, aligns with your specific career goals, and fits your budget. Use this checklist to evaluate your options and make a confident choice.

1. Confirm Regional Accreditation: Regional accreditation is the gold standard of academic quality and ensures your degree will be respected by employers and other institutions.
2. Calculate the Total Cost: Look beyond the per-credit price. Calculate the total tuition and fees for the entire program to get a clear picture of your financial commitment and avoid any surprises.
3. Align Specializations with Career Goals: Revisit the career paths that excite you most. Make sure the programs you're considering offer the specific specializations, like Public History or Archival Studies, that will get you there.
4. Investigate Faculty Expertise: Look at the profiles of the history faculty. You want to learn from professors who are actively researching and publishing in the areas that you are passionate about.
5. Evaluate Program Format and Flexibility: Check whether the courses are synchronous or asynchronous. Choose the format that best fits your learning style and your schedule.
6. Review Student Support Services: As an online student, you'll want strong support. Look for programs that offer dedicated academic advisors, online library access, and robust career services.

It’s also helpful to project future salaries and weigh them against tuition costs. Understanding outcomes like how much does a customer experience manager make offers perspective on whether certain history-related careers will deliver the financial return you’re expecting compared to other professional fields.

What career paths are available for graduates of an online master’s in history program?

A master's in history prepares you for specific, professional roles where you can apply your expertise. Graduates pursue focused careers as archivists, museum curators, and government historians, among other specialized paths. The federal government is a major employer, hiring 24% of historians, followed closely by local government at 22% and professional and technical services at 18%.

Here’s a closer look at what these professionals do.

1. Archivist

Archivists are the guardians of our collective memory. They expertly manage and preserve historical documents, photographs, and digital records for organizations, governments, or universities. Their work involves appraising collections for value and ensuring their long-term accessibility for future generations of researchers.

Median salary: $61,310 per year.

2. Museum Curator

Museum curators bring history to life for the public. They are responsible for acquiring, managing, and interpreting collections of artifacts. They conduct in-depth research to develop compelling exhibits that tell powerful stories, shaping how visitors understand and connect with the past.

Median salary: $61,590 per year.

3. Government Historian

Government historians serve the public by providing critical historical context for decision-making. Working for agencies like the State Department or National Park Service, they conduct research, write official histories, and advise policymakers, ensuring that present actions are informed by past events.

Median salary: $114,650 per year (Federal).

4. Corporate Archivist

Corporate archivists help major companies manage their most valuable asset: their institutional memory. They preserve important records, product prototypes, and marketing materials that are vital for legal compliance, brand storytelling, and long-term strategic planning, directly contributing to the company's future success.

Median salary: $72,450 per year.

5. Historical Consultant

Historical consultants are expert researchers for hire, applying their skills to a variety of projects. They might work with law firms on cases involving historical claims, with filmmakers to ensure accuracy in a documentary, or with architects on historic preservation projects.

Median salary: $68,750 per year.

What is the job market for graduates of an online master’s in history?

The field for historians is competitive, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a growth rate of 4%, which translates to about 300 job openings each year. While these numbers confirm the need for a strategic approach, they also represent real opportunities for well-prepared candidates.

Success in this market is not about luck; it is about smart planning. By choosing an affordable online master’s in history, you minimize financial risk. By selecting a career-focused specialization and gaining practical experience, you build a competitive professional profile. This strategic approach, which we have outlined throughout this guide, is precisely what will position you to secure one of these rewarding roles and build a successful, financially viable career.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say about Their Online Master’s in History Program

Other Things You Should Know About Online Master’s in History Programs

What is the difference between a thesis and a non-thesis master's in history?

A thesis track is a good choice if you are passionate about research and might want to pursue a Ph.D. later. You will complete a long, original research project. A non-thesis track is designed for students heading directly into professional careers and usually ends with a capstone project or a comprehensive exam instead.

Do I need a Ph.D. to get a job as a historian?

No, you do not need a Ph.D. for most historian jobs outside of university teaching. A master's degree is the standard professional credential for careers as an archivist, museum professional, government historian, or historical consultant. A Ph.D. is primarily required for those who want to become professors at four-year colleges and universities.

Can I get an internship while enrolled in an online history program?

Yes, getting an internship is highly encouraged and possible in an online program. Many programs have faculty or career advisors who can help you find opportunities with museums, archives, or historical societies in your local area. Practical, hands-on experience is one of the best ways to build your resume while you study.

Can I teach at a community college with a master's in history?

Yes, a master's in history is typically the minimum educational requirement to teach at a community college. You will usually need to have completed at least 18 graduate credit hours in history. Requirements can vary by state and institution, so it is always a good idea to check with the specific colleges where you would like to work.