Over the next decade, public and private organizations will depend on these workers to manage records and curate collections that meet the public’s growing interest in art, history, science, and technology.
With an average salary of $63,680, historians make $23,870 more than the average U.S. worker.
Over the next decade, museums, governmental agencies, historical societies, and nonprofits will continue to depend on the research and critical thinking abilities of historians.
This list covers undergraduate and graduate programs in history that prepare students for a broad range of careers. All programs include coursework aimed at improving writing, research, analysis, and communication skills. Degrees offered include bachelor of arts in history, bachelor of science in history, and master of arts in history. Students can choose from online, on-campus, and hybrid learning formats.
National and regional organizations accredit schools that uphold a high academic standard. Programs on this list are accredited by national accreditors, such as the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Regional accreditation comes from bodies such as the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC) and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
We evaluated each program on the basis of flexibility, faculty, course strength, cost, and reputation. Then we calculated the Intelligent Score for each program on a scale from 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out Our Ranking Methodology.
A degree in history can prepare students for many careers because of its broad curriculum rooted in research and analysis. When choosing a program of study, also consider a degree in political science. Both programs examine the past, present, and future through a critical lens and help develop communication skills and information synthesis. History programs allow students to cultivate a deep understanding of the past and use this knowledge to analyze the people it affects in the present. Political science specializes in government and policy and uses a political lens to contextualize world events.
For certain professions, graduates need to earn additional licenses or certifications. History graduates who wish to become teachers are required to obtain a state-issued license. Certifications can demonstrate proficiency in a specialized field, such as genealogy or heritage interpretation. The Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG) and the National Association for Interpretation (NAI) provide credentials for history majors that can increase job opportunities.
While the demand for historians is expected to grow at the same rate as other professions, graduates can use the skills they’ve acquired across numerous occupations, including public relations, business, and journalism.
When considering history degree programs, ask yourself these questions:
Each program has specific application deadlines and requirements, and all materials must be submitted by their due dates. Check with the school admission’s department for detailed application information.
Higher education requires a financial investment, and you should plan how you will cover these costs. Research scholarships, grants, and other financial aid opportunities that can help reduce the cost of your education.