The study of history provides an invaluable window into understanding human civilizations, cultural evolutions, social changes, and major world events. For those interested in pursuing a degree in history, online programs have made it increasingly convenient and accessible. With the advancement of technology, many reputable institutions now offer history degrees online, allowing students to balance their work, life, and educational commitments.

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Best Online Colleges for History Degrees

In this guide, we will explore the best online colleges for obtaining a history degree, their unique selling points, and what students can expect from these programs.

1. Arizona State University (ASU)

Program: Bachelor of Arts in History
Overview: ASU is renowned for its innovative approach to education and its commitment to accessibility. Their online BA in History program provides students with a robust understanding of global and regional histories.
Features:
- 7.5-week courses, offering accelerated study options.
- A diverse range of electives.
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Unique Selling Point: ASU’s faculty comprises world-renowned historians and scholars.

2. University of Massachusetts (UMass) – UMassOnline

Program: Bachelor of Arts in History
Overview: UMassOnline is the digital learning consortium of the University of Massachusetts. The program covers a comprehensive range of history topics.
Features:
- 120 credit hours.
- Access to a wide range of digital resources and e-library.
Unique Selling Point: UMass consistently ranks high among public universities in the U.S.

3. Oregon State University (OSU)

Program: Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science in History
Overview: OSU’s Ecampus offers both BA and BS options in History. Students can expect a rigorous, interdisciplinary approach to history.
Features:
- 180 quarter credits.
- Courses on global history, women’s history, environmental history, and more.
Unique Selling Point: OSU’s Ecampus is consistently ranked among the top 10 in the nation.

4. Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)

Program: Bachelor of Arts in History
Overview: SNHU’s online history degree offers various concentrations like American history, European history, and Middle Eastern studies.
Features:
- 120 credit hours.
- 24/7 access to coursework.
Unique Selling Point: Generous transfer policy with the possibility to transfer up to 90 credits.

5. Liberty University

Program: Bachelor of Science in History
Overview: Liberty University is a Christian institution that offers an extensive online history program.
Features:
- 120 credit hours.
- Eight-week courses.
Unique Selling Point: Incorporates a biblical worldview in its curriculum.

What to Expect from an Online History Degree Program:

Diverse Curriculum: From ancient civilizations to modern global events, students can expect to delve deep into a range of historical topics and timelines.
Research Opportunities: Many programs emphasize research, allowing students to explore archives, conduct oral histories, or even present at conferences.
Interactive Learning: Despite being online, many programs offer interactive discussions, virtual study groups, and other forms of engagement.
Capstone Projects: Many history degree programs culminate in a major project or thesis, allowing students to demonstrate their knowledge and research skills.
Flexibility: One of the primary advantages of an online history degree is the flexibility it offers. Students can often study at their own pace, making it easier to balance other commitments.

Career Prospects for History Graduates:

While many think of teaching as the primary career for history graduates, the skills honed during such a program open doors to a variety of fields:

Archivist: Preserve important documents and records.
Museum Curator: Oversee collections in museums and ensure they’re educational and engaging for visitors.
Research Analyst: Work in policy organizations, think tanks, or businesses to analyze data and historical contexts.
Historical Consultant: Provide historical insights for documentaries, films, or even legal cases.
Public Relations Specialist: Use storytelling skills to craft narratives for businesses or individuals.

Choosing to pursue a history degree online is an excellent option for those who require flexibility and accessibility. With many top institutions offering robust online programs, students don’t have to compromise on the quality of education. Whether it’s the global perspective offered by Arizona State University or the Christian-centric approach of Liberty University, there’s an online history program tailored for every kind of student.

Moreover, an online degree in history equips students with valuable skills like critical thinking, research acumen, and effective communication. These skills are in demand across various fields, making history graduates versatile in the job market. While the traditional path may lead to roles like teaching or archiving, the broader skill set means history graduates can find roles in areas like public relations, consultancy, and even data analysis.

In the age of digital learning, acquiring a history degree online from a reputable institution is not just a viable option, but for many, it’s the preferred route. The combination of flexibility, diverse curriculum options, and the opportunity to study under renowned faculties makes online history programs an attractive choice for many students.