06/23/2025
Exploring the Purpose and Scope of a History Degree
A history degree offers more than an understanding of the past—it builds a foundation for analytical thinking, research, and communication that can apply to many fields. Students pursuing a history degree examine global events, cultural transformations, and social movements, often with a focus on how these developments shape the modern world.
This academic path emphasizes the development of critical thinking skills, writing skills, and the ability to interpret primary and secondary sources. Through coursework and historical research, history majors learn to identify patterns, explore cause-and-effect relationships, and construct evidence-based arguments. These transferable skills may support roles in sectors such as education, government, cultural institutions, or private organizations.
Types of History Degrees
Students interested in the study of history can pursue various degree options, each tailored to different academic goals and career pathways. From foundational programs to advanced research-focused degrees, history education is available at multiple levels, offering flexibility and specialization for a wide range of learners.
Academic routes for studying history include the following:
Associate Degree in History
An associate degree provides a foundation in world history, American history, and historical development, often completed in two years. It can serve as a stepping stone toward a bachelor's degree in history or related discipline.
Bachelor's Degree in History
A bachelor's degree is typically a four-year program offering in-depth study of world civilizations, modern U.S. history, historical trends, and history research methods. Some schools offer a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.), depending on the curriculum emphasis. Students may also pursue concentrations in topics such as art history, medieval history, Asian history, or ancient civilizations.
Graduate and Doctoral Degrees in History
A graduate degree, such as a master's degree in history, often takes two years and can focus on a specific region, time period, or thematic area. Programs usually require a thesis and emphasize the research process, historiography, and advanced writing.
A doctoral degree in history may take five to nine years and prepares students for roles in higher education, archives, or advanced research. It typically involves original research, teaching, and a dissertation.
Key Learning Outcomes in a History Degree
Through a history degree program, students engage with a broad curriculum that includes:
- Historical research methods, including archival study and oral history
- World history and United States history
- Analysis of historical data and interpretation of sources
- Development of communication skills through presentations and writing
- Engagement with historical events from various periods including the European Middle Ages, Asian history, and modern global affairs
In many programs, students also explore interdisciplinary topics that connect history with political science, sociology, or economics.
Students may also have access to internships, capstone projects, or independent research opportunities that apply classroom knowledge to real-world settings.
Historical Research and Methodologies
A central component of history study is the ability to conduct historical research. This process includes:
- Evaluating primary and secondary sources
- Learning archival research techniques
- Understanding historiography and how historical interpretation evolves
- Practicing analytical writing through research papers and critiques
These research methods support roles in education, cultural institutions, and policy analysis. Many students apply these skills in museum work, heritage management, or content development.
Typical Career Paths With a History Degree
What Can You Do With A History Degree? A degree in history may serve as the basis for multiple career directions, depending on a student's specialization and goals. Potential fields include:
- Education: Teaching in high schools or pursuing licensure for history teacher roles
- Cultural heritage: Professionals in cultural heritage may manage archives or serve as curators and archivists
- Public service and government: Involvement in policy research, historical consulting, or public history projects
- Media and communication: Media and communication: Writing, editing, or serving as analysts in nonprofit and communication sector
- Graduate school: Further study in law, international affairs, or library science
While growth may be modest, history-related professions continue to value the research and analytical training history majors bring.
Skills Developed in a History Program
Students who complete a history degree build a wide range of professional competencies, including:
- Critical thinking: Identifying bias, evaluating claims, and understanding context
- Writing skills: Producing clear, well-supported arguments
- Research skills: Locating and synthesizing complex material
- Communication skills: Sharing information with varied audiences
- Analytical thinking: Interpreting trends and historical outcomes
These abilities may be applicable to work in educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and private-sector businesses alike.
Online History Degree Options
Students who need flexibility may consider an online history degree. These programs generally offer the same content and rigor as their on-campus counterparts. Features of online study can include:
- Asynchronous classes to fit different schedules
- Access to online history degree courses in areas such as European history, American history, and historical research methods
- Digital libraries and virtual writing labs to support students remotely
Online history degree programs often attract students balancing professional or personal responsibilities and can offer a flexible learning format for students working toward a bachelor’s degree in history.
Accreditation and Academic Quality
When selecting a history degree program, accreditation is a key consideration. Schools recognized by accrediting bodies meet established academic standards, which may be especially important for those planning to pursue graduate degrees or licensure. Accreditation can also affect eligibility for financial aid.
Historical Topics and Specializations
Many history programs allow students to explore concentrations in:
- World history
- United States history
- Art history
- Ancient civilizations
- Asian history
- Political history
These specializations allow future students to align their studies with specific career interests or areas of scholarly passion.
Determining if a History Degree Is Right for You
The question of whether a history degree is worth pursuing depends on the student's goals. History majors often find the subject intellectually stimulating and develop skills applicable to various professions. These include roles in education, content development, public history, and analytical support in public or private organizations.
History graduates may go on to pursue graduate school or professional certifications in fields such as law, public policy, or library science, using their foundation in historical thinking to guide their advanced studies.
The Lasting Value of a History Degree
Understanding what a history degree is means recognizing how it develops versatile skills rooted in the study of human experience. From interpreting the rise and fall of civilizations to examining the forces behind modern policy shifts, students build analytical depth and communication strength over time. History majors are encouraged to explore complex societal trends and develop a broad understanding of historical dynamics.
A history degree builds not only a record of academic achievement but a foundation for critical inquiry, careful research, and informed dialogue. No matter if it's through on-campus learning or flexible online programs, students can engage with a discipline that encourages thoughtful exploration and practical application.