Online Master of Arts in History

Advance in your history career or prepare for employment opportunities in politics, nonprofit and academia with Arizona State University’s online Master of Arts in history. Throughout this program, you’ll explore the history of societies from across the world while collaborating with your peers in a community setting. Featuring two focus areas to tailor your studies to your interests, this program will provide you with deeper knowledge of the past and the ability to gather analysis and evaluate evidence in historical contexts.

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Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 10/16/2024


Total classes:

Total classes: 10

Weeks per class:

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours:

Total credit hours: 30

Degree questions, answered

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What you can do with a master’s in history

Earning this degree allows you to build knowledge of the world while developing talents that can be used in a variety of industries. Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared to pursue jobs in museums, national parks, historic preservation, public service, journalism, politics, nonprofits, academia and more. If you teach in or aspire to teach in K-12 environments, this degree can help you grow. You’ll build skills and content knowledge that can strengthen teaching and, in some cases, make you eligible for an increase in pay.

The knowledge and skills you’ll develop

Throughout this program, you’ll engage with comparative analyses, historiographies and research papers, enhancing your ability to write about complex topics. Studying history not only enriches your understanding of the past but also helps you comprehend the present and influence the future. Overall, this program offers a strong foundation for developing an advanced historical perspective while cultivating highly transferable skills, including:

  • Analyzing evidence.
  • Communication.
  • Creating multifaceted and persuasive arguments.
  • Critical thinking.
  • Problem-solving.
  • Project planning and organizing.

Tailor your studies to your interests and career goals

This online history master’s program offers a thematic approach, encompassing various time periods and geographic regions. Rather than focusing narrowly on one subject, you'll gain a broad historical understanding and explore diverse perspectives. This flexibility allows you to tailor your studies to align with your interests and career goals. Upon completion, you'll possess the skills and expertise expected of a master's-level historian.

The program offers two focus areas of study to choose from:

  • North American history: Delve into the histories of Mexico, the U.S. and Canada, as well as the societies predating their formation through an in-depth examination.
  • Global history: Explore global topics through a methodological lens, gaining insights from perspectives outside of North America.

With this approach, you can tailor your academic journey to your specific interests and career aspirations. You'll also receive personalized support from faculty advisors, fostering direct relationships with professors and fellow students.

Will my diploma say ‘online’?

No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”

Online master’s in history courses

Courses are designed and taught by faculty members with PhDs and industry professionals working in museums or other public history settings. In addition to taking core courses related to your focus area, you’ll complete several electives, two research seminars and a capstone project.


The jobs a history master’s prepares you for

Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared to work in research, government service, politics, journalism or other fields. For teachers, this history master’s can support your growth as an instructor in primary, secondary and higher education environments. You may also choose to pursue roles in public history, including those at museums, historical societies or national parks. Potential career paths include, but aren’t limited to:

Learn alongside practicing faculty and leaders in the field

From Royal Society and American Academy Fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members who include:

  • Fulbright American Scholars.
  • Guggenheim Fellows.
  • MacArthur Fellows.
  • Nobel laureates.

Learn alongside practicing faculty and leaders in the field

From Royal Society and American Academy Fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members who include:

  • Fulbright American Scholars.
  • Guggenheim Fellows.
  • MacArthur Fellows.
  • Nobel laureates.

How to apply

Applicants to the Master of Arts in history degree must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

The largest and most diverse college at ASU

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to become socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.

25,500+


currently enrolled students.

$170 million


in research expenditures in 2022.

23


interdisciplinary schools and departments.

100+


undergraduate degrees.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

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