In order to prepare for the future, it’s essential to study the past. Here are the 35 best online bachelor’s in history.
If you choose to earn your bachelor’s degree in history, you will open the door to several career opportunities. It’s common for a history major to go into teaching, but there are several other fields that can be filled with the knowledge given in a history degree.
A history major uses critical thinking skills to understand and analyze the significance of people and events from the past. Although this degree is a matter of studying and memorizing dates and facts, you’ll also learn to support your argument and further expand new ideas based on past efforts.
What is an Online History Degree?
Throughout an undergraduate study in history, you will explore the past to understand it further, as well as use it to your advantage in modern-world scenarios. Your coursework will have a focus on critical thinking, writing, and research methods to deepen your understanding and build your skill sets. This degree will equip you to know the right facts to support your argument.
Typically, students who complete their bachelor’s in history end up with careers in education, public service organizations, or government institutions.
Students who want to study how art and cultures have intertwined throughout history should check out the Best Online Art and Art History Degrees. For something more general, consider the perusing the Best Online Humanities Degrees.
How Much Can You Earn With an Online History Degree?
Keep in mind that there are several career options you can choose from once you complete your online bachelor’s degree in history. There’s potential for you to become a high school history teacher, lawyer, archivist, curator, museum technician, or information specialist.
According to PayScale, individuals who hold a BA in history make an average salary of $63,000. It also shows both men and women work within this profession. The gender breakdown reports that 54.6 percent are male and 45.2 percent are female.
What is Required for an Online History Degree?
Like most bachelor programs, students are required to complete 120 credit hours to earn their undergraduate degree in history. During the application process, most institutions will require a high school diploma or GED equivalent, along with standardized test scores.
Once you begin your undergraduate studies, your coursework will involve topics in world history, American history, and international relations. Some programs may allow you to specialize in a certain area of focus, depending on your interests and career possibilities.
What are the Best Online Child Development Degrees?
OSR uses six data points: three school-wide and three program specific. For school-wide, OSR uses Student Satisfaction, Admission Rates, and the number of programs the school offers online. For program-specific, OSR checks the Median Debt of graduates from that program, how many degrees are offered within that program’s umbrella department, and what percentage of students at that school graduated from that department.
The six statistics are displayed by each school. The sliding bar under each statistic represents how that school compares to other US institutions. “Not reported” means a school did not release that information to the US Department of Education. A more detailed description of the OSR process can be found on the methodology page.
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American Public University System
20-Year ROI$1,257,003
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $6,480(in state) / $6,480(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Research paper required
- Transfer up to 90 credit hours
School Wide
Program Level
100%OSR ScoreAmerican Public University offers the best online bachelor’s degree program in history. Throughout this program, students will be taught critical and analytical thinking, in-depth research, and writing skills. You will be required to select one of the following concentrations to study: general history, American history, European history, or global history.
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Ottawa University-Online
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $11,976(in state) / $11,976(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Flexible format and schedules offered
- Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission
School Wide
Program Level
99%OSR ScoreEarning an online bachelor’s degree in history through Ottawa University will teach you how past events have an impact on modern-day life. If you’re interested in evaluating political, social and economic transactions in the context of religious, philosophical and cultural influence, then this is the program for you. You will use critical thinking and problem-solving skills to complete your coursework.
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Chaminade University of Honolulu
20-Year ROI$759,124
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $24,400(in state) / $24,400(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Half of required major courses must be completed at Chaminade
- Minimum cumulative 2.0 GPA required
School Wide
Program Level
97%OSR ScoreAt Chaminade University of Honolulu, you can obtain a BA in historical and political studies at your own pace. This program prepares students for graduate studies or a career in law, government, and teaching. Some of your coursework will include America through the Civil War, Ancient Europe, and the history of rock-n-roll.
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University of Illinois at Springfield
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $9,515(in state) / $16,117(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Rolling admissions basis
- Thesis required
School Wide
Program Level
96%OSR ScoreThe University of Illinois at Springfield offers an online bachelor’s program in history to students who live within a 50-mile radius from UIS. This program is identical to the one taught on campus with flexibility in the course schedule. Students will take courses involving globalization, religion, and world history.
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Arizona State University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $8,597(in state) / $18,187(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- 7.5 weeks per class
- Transfer-friendly program
School Wide
Program Level
94%OSR ScoreDo you have an interest in humanities? Arizona State University offers an online bachelor’s program in history that focuses on the humanities; the critical, historical and comparative studies; and natural and social sciences. This program prepares students for careers in business, education, and public service. Students will learn how to use modernized tools to expand their knowledge of the past.
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Southern New Hampshire University
20-Year ROI$882,666
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $30,756(in state) / $30,756(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Concentration required
- Transfer up to 90 credits
School Wide
Program Level
91%OSR ScoreWith a focus on the links between ancient civilizations and modern societies, the bachelor’s program in history at Southern New Hampshire is like no other. Students will qualify for careers at museums, historical associations, or other small organizations. Online classes at SNHU are designed to be affordable, accelerated, and practical toward real-life scenarios.
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Mary Baldwin University
20-Year ROI$737,382
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $30,690(in state) / $30,690(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Concentrations and focus areas offered
- Transfer up to 18 credits
School Wide
Program Level
89%OSR ScoreMary Baldwin University offers a history degree entirely online that uses the same tools as students on-campus. With the Blackboard-interface program, students will have constant contact with their coursework, lectures, and teachers. Throughout this program, you will gain a firm understanding of American, British, African American, and European history.
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Ottawa University-Ottawa
20-Year ROI$819,415
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $27,370(in state) / $27,370(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Seminar course required
- Transfer up to 80 credits
School Wide
Program Level
89%OSR ScoreA complete online bachelor’s degree in history is now offered at Ottawa University-Ottawa. Throughout this program, you’ll explore and deepen your understanding of past events on a national and international scale. Some of your courses will include world regional geography, world civilization, and international relations.
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The Baptist College of Florida
20-Year ROI$637,836
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $10,200(in state) / $10,200(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Christian worldview approach
- Internship required
School Wide
Program Level
89%OSR ScoreThe Baptist College of Florida offers an online bachelor’s program in history and social studies entirely online. This program will teach students the history of people, places, events, and causes with a Christian worldview approach. Your class schedule will include the history of economic thought, Christian history, and world religions.
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Ottawa University-Kansas City
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $11,976(in state) / $11,976(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Seminar course required
- Transfer up to 80 credits
School Wide
Program Level
89%OSR ScoreEarn your history degree within four years through Ottawa University-Kansas City. If you’re interested in starting a career as an archivist, curator, museum technician, teacher, or informational specialist, this is the program for you. Throughout this program, your courses will include topics such as American government, religion, and world civilization.
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University of Maryland Global Campus
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $6936(in state) / $11,976(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Senior thesis required
- Transfer up to 90 credits
School Wide
Program Level
89%OSR ScoreEarning your degree in history from the University of Maryland-University College will prepare you for a career in politics, law, journalism, or education. You can pick a degree focus in U.S. history, world history, or a mix. Some of your courses may be in a hybrid format.
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Bellevue University
20-Year ROI$1,077,529
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $7,152(in state) / $7,152(out of state)
- Total of 127 credit hours
- Kirkpatrick Signature Series required
- Transfer credits allowed
School Wide
Program Level
89%OSR ScoreBellevue University offers a 100 percent online bachelor’s program in history with a focus on western civilization. Throughout this program, students will be prepared for careers within park services, museum curatorship, historical societies, and international relations. Your main courses will involve topics in world history, American history, and social and political movements.
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Westfield State University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $970(in state) / $7,050(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Guaranteed admission
- Transfer up to 79-90 credits
School Wide
Program Level
87%OSR ScoreWestfield State University offers a unique online experience with two course schedules available. You can earn your bachelor’s degree in history within one to three years, depending on which track you choose. You can choose to take traditional 14-week courses or accelerated seven-week courses.
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Southwestern Assemblies of God University
20-Year ROI$700,785
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $19,700(in state) / $19,700(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Christian worldview approach
- General Biblical Studies course required each semester
School Wide
Program Level
86%OSR ScoreSouthwestern Assemblies of God University’s degree has a wide range of career options to choose from, such as becoming an archaeologist, archivist, or museum education officer. Throughout this program, students will be taught with a Christian approach and are required to take biblical-based coursework throughout each semester.
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Ashford University
20-Year ROI$818,512
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $10,848(in state) / $10,848(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Five-week courses
- Transfer up to 90 credits
School Wide
Program Level
86%OSR ScoreGet educated on past events to understand more about the modern world by earning your bachelor’s degree in history at Ashford University. You will have the option to add a specialization to your degree to further your knowledge in a specific study. There is a research-focused capstone course required before graduating.
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Excelsior College
Quick Facts
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Transfer up to 113 credits
- Capstone course required
School Wide
Program Level
86%OSR ScoreEarning your degree in history from Excelsior College will equip you for a career as an archivist, curator, museum technician, or conservator. Throughout the program, students will study US history, world history, and European history. The history capstone course will involve debates and research techniques. It’s required for all students to complete.
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Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $3,661(in state) / $9,436(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Different online format options
- Free job placement and resume help offered
School Wide
Program Level
85%OSR ScoreEastern New Mexico University offers a 100 percent online bachelor’s program in history. This program has a teaching approach that focuses on critical and analytical thinking, as well as strong communication skills. This helps prepare students for a career in business or public service.
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University of Idaho
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $5,346(in state) / $21,670(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Two degree paths offered
- Capstone course required
School Wide
Program Level
85%OSR ScoreAt the University of Idaho, you can earn your BA or BS in history entirely online. Both programs are taught by award-winning teachers. Online students receive the same tuition costs as in-state students.
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Ottawa University-Phoenix
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $11,976(in state) / $11,976(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Flexible format and schedules offered
- Transfer up to 80 credits
School Wide
Program Level
85%OSR ScoreYou can earn your history degree online within four years through Ottawa University-Phoenix. Throughout this program, you will evaluate political, social, and economic transactions in the context of past events. Students will study topics that focus on American government, world geography, and world religions.
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University of Central Florida
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $4,478(in state) / $19,810(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Concentration of study offered
- Accelerated program offered
School Wide
Program Level
85%OSR ScoreDo you have an interest in becoming a congressional aide, foreign service officer, or grant writer? Check out the bachelor’s program in online history at the University of Central Florida. Through this program, you’ll explore the history of civilization, from its earliest days to modern society. Students can tailor their studies to a specific geographic region, including Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe, Latin America, or North America.
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Columbia College
20-Year ROI$755,005
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $8,712(in state) / $8,712(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Senior seminar required
- Foreign Language requirement
School Wide
Program Level
84%OSR ScoreColumbia College offers an online bachelor’s program in history that prides it’s teaching approach on memory. This program will teach students the importance of learning about the past and continuing to analyze it in their future endeavors. Your class schedule will include courses like world history, making the modern world, and introduction to the historian’s craft.
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Liberty University
20-Year ROI$718,609
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $15,734(in state) / $15,734(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- 8-week courses
- Transfer-friendly program
School Wide
Program Level
83%OSR ScoreIf you’re interested in learning about the differences in American, European, and Western history, then this is the program for you. Earn your history degree at Liberty University to understand each culture by observing the economic trends, political actions, wars, and public perceptions of each. Students typically complete this program within three and a half years.
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Eastern Oregon University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $6,928(in state) / $18,248(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Thesis/capstone course required
- Transfer-friendly program
School Wide
Program Level
82%OSR ScoreEastern Oregon University prides itself on its attention to detail when it comes to the classroom experience. Regardless of being online, class sizes are small, so students get the attention they need to comprehend what is being taught. The coursework is broken down into three groups: US History, European/World History, and Western/Comparative/Thematic History.
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National University
20-Year ROI$1,183,483
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $13,032(in state) / $13,032(out of state)
Facts:
- Total of 120 credit hours
- 4-week classes
- Year-round enrollment
School Wide
Program Level
82%OSR ScoreCalling all journalists, ad writers, and editors, this is the program for you! National University offers an online bachelor’s program in history that focuses on analyzing, researching, writing, and evaluating past studies. If you have an interest in producing multimedia materials and documentaries, this program will train you on the skill sets to do so.
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King University
20-Year ROI$865,509
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $27,024(in state) / $27,024(out of state)
- Total of 124 credit hours
- 5-week courses
- History Seminar required
School Wide
Program Level
82%OSR ScoreThe bachelor’s program in history at King University is designed for students who have an interest in teaching history to grades 6-12 or working adults who want to further their profession. Students will learn a variety of key topics and time periods after completing their degrees. You can graduate from this program within 16 months.
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Granite State College
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $7,368(in state) / $8,280(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Senior project required
- Transfer-friendly program
School Wide
Program Level
81%OSR ScoreGranite State College offers an online bachelor’s program in history that studies everything from prehistory to present-day life. This program will develop critical thinking skills, research competence, writing ability, argument experience, and documentation processes. Your class schedule will include great civilizations, historical methods, and topics in world history.
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University of North Alabama
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $6,648(in state) / $13,296(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- BA and BS degree options offered
- Senior thesis required
School Wide
Program Level
81%OSR ScoreEarn your history degree within four years through the University of North Alabama. This online program is perfect for students who want to complete their degree on their own schedule. All courses are taught by industry experts, and class sizes are small.
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Sterling College
20-Year ROI$705,101
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $23,985(in state) / $23,985(out of state)
- Total of 45 credit hours
- Free application process
- Not available to international students
School Wide
Program Level
81%OSR ScoreEarning your degree in history from Sterling College will prepare you for a career in a variety of fields. If you’re interested in teaching 6-12 grade history, you can also integrate the professional studies in your coursework. This program focuses on topics of history relating to culture, geography, government, science, literature, and religion.
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Sam Houston State University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $5,472(in state) / $15,432(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Transfer-friendly program
- Largest and fastest-growing department on campus
School Wide
Program Level
80%OSR ScoreSam Houston State University is known for its award-winning professors and cutting-edge researchers. Even though the program can be taught entirely online, students will receive the same diploma as on-campus students. Throughout the program, students are required to complete core courses pertaining to history, a foreign language, and a minor.
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Southwestern Adventist University
20-Year ROI$822,933
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $20,112(in state) / $20,112(out of state)
- Total of 37 core credit hours
- Internship required
- Transfer-friendly program
School Wide
Program Level
80%OSR ScoreIf you have a passion for learning about history and finding ways to reshape the future, this program is for you. Southwestern Adventist University offers an online bachelor’s program in history that teaches students historical, cultural, and governmental contexts all over the globe. This degree can lead graduates into careers involving public service, politics, or journalism.
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Clayton State University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $3,965(in state) / $14,426(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Internship required, different options available
- Transfer-friendly program
School Wide
Program Level
79%OSR ScoreEarn your bachelor’s degree in history at Clayton State University. This program will equip you for furthering your education into graduate studies or starting an entry-level position in the field. Clayton State also offers a bachelor’s degree in history and secondary education, which leads to a certification in grades 6-12.
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University of Arizona
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $10,262(in state) / $31,067(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Transfer-friendly program
- Senior capstone course
School Wide
Program Level
79%OSR ScoreThe University of Arizona focuses on teaching students with a research-focused approach. You can earn your bachelor’s degree in history within four years entirely online. Throughout this program, your coursework will include the introduction to the study of history, medieval Europe, and a capstone course.
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Troy University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $7,584(in state) / $15,168(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Concentration required
- Senior seminar required
School Wide
Program Level
79%OSR ScoreIf you want to study history with a concentration in American and Latin American studies, this is the program for you. Troy University offers an online bachelor’s program in history with a concentration in America/Latin America. Throughout this program, you will explore the history and social value of records and archives.
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University of Memphis
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $7,680(in state) / $19,392(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Fourteen-week semesters
- Courses are not self-paced
School Wide
Program Level
78%OSR ScoreExplore a curriculum that emphasizes the human experience of cultural, social, and gender differences through history at the University of Memphis. Throughout this bachelor’s program, students will study core history courses along with one non-American or non-European course. History majors are required to discuss their academic plans and long-term educational and professional goals with their faculty advisor each semester.
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Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $5,180(in state) / $15,968(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours
- Transfer-friendly program
- 8-week sessions offered during fall and spring
School Wide
Program Level
78%OSR ScoreDid you know that Northwestern State University hosts one of the oldest chapters of Phi Alpha Theta? It’s an international history honor society! You can earn your bachelor’s degree in history, concentrating in United States and European history entirely online. Once you complete this program, you’ll have a firm understanding of American History, spanning from the colonial era through contemporary times.
