Different Types of History Degrees and Their Salaries in 2026

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

According to recent labor market data, employment opportunities in fields related to history are expected to increase faster than average in the coming decade, reflecting an expanding need for skilled graduates. Choosing the right educational path in history is essential for aligning career goals with market needs.

This article provides a thorough overview of the various types of history degrees available and the earning potential graduates can anticipate, helping prospective students make informed decisions about their academic and professional futures.

Key Points About Different Types of History Degrees and Their Salaries

Graduates with an associate degree in history typically qualify for entry-level roles such as archives technician or museum assistant, with median salaries around $40,000 annually, but often face limited advancement without further education.
Bachelor's degree holders in history have broader access to career paths including teaching, research, and historical analysis, earning a median wage near $60,000, with opportunities improving significantly when combined with relevant internships or certifications.
Those who pursue master's degrees in history frequently secure specialized positions like curators or policy analysts, reflecting median salaries above $75,000 and enhanced long-term growth potential due to advanced research skills and subject matter expertise.

What Are the Different Types of History Degrees Available?

Understanding the different types and levels of history degrees is crucial for students before choosing a program because each degree caters to diverse career goals and educational backgrounds. This knowledge ensures that students select a path that matches their academic interests and professional aspirations.

Below is an overview of the main types of history degrees and what makes each unique, highlighting their academic focus and typical coursework.

Associate Degree in History: Offers a broad introduction to world and American history, alongside fundamental societal developments. The curriculum generally includes basic historical methods and foundational topics that prepare students for further study or entry-level positions.
Bachelor's Degree in History (BA or BS): Provides a thorough exploration of key historical events, civilizations, and research methodologies. Students engage in critical analysis, historiography, and evaluation of primary sources, often selecting electives that deepen their understanding of specific historical areas.
Master's Degree in History (MA, MSc, MLitt, MPhil): Centers on specialized research and advanced historiographical study. Coursework involves seminars, research projects, and thesis work, with a strong emphasis on critical writing and scholarly debate.
Doctoral Degree in History (PhD): Focuses on original research and advanced scholarship in a chosen history field. Students complete a dissertation, participate in seminars, and frequently teach or assist with undergraduate instruction, honing independent research skills and contributing new historical interpretations.

For those seeking the fastest way to get associate's degree online, detailed resources are available that guide prospective students through accelerated programs tailored for efficient completion without compromising academic quality.

What Specializations Are Available in History Degrees?

Choosing a specialization within a history degree is a critical step for students because it allows them to tailor their education to align closely with their career ambitions. Specializations not only provide focused knowledge but also develop targeted skills that enhance employability in specific professional fields.

To illustrate the options available, here is a list of common history specializations that cater to various interests and career paths:

American History: Focuses on the political, social, and cultural evolution of the United States. Students acquire skills in critical analysis and contextual writing, preparing for careers in teaching, government, or public policy.
European History: Examines the development of European societies, covering major events like the Renaissance and World Wars. Key competencies include comparative research and cultural analysis, leading to opportunities in education, international relations, and museums.
Military History: Centers on warfare, strategy, and military institutions. This specialization hones analytical and research skills applicable to roles in military analysis, government agencies, or defense policy.
Public History: Prepares students for non-academic careers such as museum curators, archivists, and historical site managers. Emphasis is on communication, preservation, and engaging the public.
Art History: Explores the history of visual arts across cultures and time periods. Graduates develop expertise in visual analysis and curation, qualifying for careers in galleries, museums, or cultural institutions.
Environmental History: Investigates human interactions with the natural environment and their past impacts. It cultivates research and policy analysis skills suitable for advocacy, environmental agencies, or academic positions.

Students considering these options may find it helpful to research programs offered by open enrollment colleges online to determine which specialization and educational format best suit their goals.

How Long Does It Take to Complete Each Type of History Degree?

Understanding how long it takes to complete various history degree programs is crucial for students as they plan their education and career paths. Knowing the typical duration helps in managing expectations and aligning academic goals with personal and professional timelines.

Here is an overview of the main history degree types and their usual completion times.

Associate Degree in History: Typically completed in about two years of full-time study, this degree provides foundational knowledge for entry-level roles or as a stepping stone toward a bachelor's degree. Part-time enrollment may extend the timeline, while transferring credits from other programs can shorten it. Online and accelerated programs are often available to offer more flexibility.
Bachelor's Degree in History: Usually requires four years of full-time study to complete, focusing on a comprehensive understanding of historical events and methods. Students can accelerate their degree through summer courses or credit transfers, while part-time study may extend the duration. Many universities offer online options to accommodate diverse student needs.
Master's in History: This graduate degree typically takes one to two years beyond the bachelor's level, depending on the program format and thesis requirements. Part-time study or research-intensive tracks can lengthen the duration, but some schools offer accelerated or fully online degrees to expedite completion.
Doctorate (PhD) in History: Often requiring five to seven years, the PhD involves coursework, comprehensive exams, and original research culminating in a dissertation. Timelines vary greatly based on research progress, advisor support, and whether students study full-time or part-time. Some programs offer flexible pacing but generally cannot be significantly accelerated.

Breakdown of All Fully Online Title IV Institutions

Source: U.S. Department of Education, 2023

Are There Accelerated History Degree Programs?

Accelerated history degree programs are designed to enable motivated students to complete both a bachelor's and a master's degree in history in a significantly shortened timeframe, often within five years-about a year less than pursuing the degrees separately.

These accelerated tracks, commonly referred to as "4+1" or "accelerated BA/MA" programs, allow students to double-count a set number of graduate-level credits, typically ranging from 9 to 18, taken during their final undergraduate year.

This approach cuts down the total time spent in school without sacrificing academic rigor. Formats to achieve this acceleration vary and may include condensed courses that cover material at a faster pace, year-round enrollment options with shorter breaks between terms, and the strategic use of transfer or advanced placement credits.

Some institutions also offer online versions of accelerated undergraduate history programs to accommodate working adults or those seeking greater flexibility.

Students considering accelerated history degree programs should be aware that these tracks demand a significantly more intense workload, as they must simultaneously manage both undergraduate and graduate-level coursework and associated assignments.

Eligibility criteria often include maintaining a strong academic record, with minimum GPAs commonly set at 3.5 or higher, plus the submission of academic writing samples, statements of purpose, and detailed planning for course sequences to meet all requirements within the condensed timeframe.

While accelerated programs offer benefits such as reduced tuition costs and earlier entry into the job market, the pace can be rigorous, requiring careful time management and academic discipline. Graduates with a master's degree in history generally enjoy higher median salaries, reflecting the value of advanced study in the field.

When speaking with a graduate of an accelerated history degree program about his experience, he described the journey as both challenging and rewarding.

"Balancing graduate seminars alongside my senior undergraduate classes was intense," he shared, noting how managing deadlines required meticulous planning and occasional sacrifices in social life.

He recalled nights spent synthesizing complex historical theories for graduate papers immediately after finishing undergrad assignments. Yet, he also reflected positively on the learning momentum this created, stating, "The accelerated pace kept me deeply engaged and pushed me to develop strong research and writing skills quickly."

He emphasized how crucial it was to maintain open communication with advisors to stay on track. According to him, "The satisfaction of finishing both degrees in five years made the intensity worth it, especially knowing it gave me a competitive edge in the job market right after graduation."

This personal account illustrates how accelerated history degree programs, while demanding, can offer a focused and efficient path for committed students.

Are Online History Degrees as Credible as Traditional Ones?

Online history degree programs today uphold the same academic standards as traditional ones, requiring comparable credit hours, qualified faculty, and rigorous coursework.

Accredited by regional agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, reputable online programs ensure high-quality curriculum and instruction. Institutions like the University of Maryland Global Campus, Southern New Hampshire University, and Indiana University provide online history degrees that closely match their on-campus counterparts, often featuring capstone projects and research opportunities.

High student recommendation rates, such as Utah State University's 99%, highlight strong satisfaction with academic experiences, faculty interaction, and support services. These elements contribute to maintaining the integrity and credibility of online history education.

Recent trends reveal growing employer acceptance of online history degrees across the United States. Many hiring managers do not distinguish between online and traditional degrees, particularly when the credential is awarded by a well-known, accredited institution.

Since diplomas typically do not specify the mode of study, employers tend to prioritize the school's reputation and the candidate's relevant skills and experience. For example, history graduates from the University of Maryland Global Campus report median earnings around $59,264, similar to traditional program outcomes.

Ultimately, the credibility of a history degree depends more on the institution's accreditation and reputation than on whether the coursework was completed online or in person.

How Much Does Each Type of History Degree Typically Cost?

Understanding tuition differences across history degree levels is essential for effective budgeting and long-term financial planning. Costs can vary widely depending on the degree type, institution, and delivery format, so having a clear picture of typical tuition rates helps prospective students make informed decisions.

Below is an overview of the common tuition ranges for each type of history degree to guide your planning process.

Associate Degree in History: Tuition at community colleges offering associate history degrees is generally the most affordable option, with annual costs typically between $3,000 and $8,000 for in-state students. Out-of-state tuition can be higher, while online programs often provide additional savings. Many students benefit from federal Pell Grants, state funding, and institutional scholarships to help offset costs.
Bachelor's Degree in History: Undergraduate tuition varies significantly. Public universities usually charge $6,000 to $16,000 per year for in-state residents and between $18,000 and $44,000 for out-of-state students. Private colleges can average around $32,932 annually. Online bachelor's programs often range from $2,500 to $17,450, with public institutions offering some of the most affordable options. Financial aid can include grants, work-study, and merit scholarships.
Master's in History: Graduate tuition often falls in the $20,513 to $25,099 per year range at major universities. Public institutions and online programs may offer lower rates. Many graduate students secure funding through assistantships, fellowships, or research grants, which can substantially reduce actual expenses.
Doctorate (PhD) in History: Doctoral tuition often exceeds $25,000 annually, but top-tier programs typically provide full or partial tuition waivers, stipends, or assistantships for accepted candidates. Competition for these funded positions is intense, and additional external research grants can help further support doctoral study.

Reflecting on these cost factors, a graduate of a history degree program shared her personal experience managing tuition expenses. She emphasized how strategically applying for assistantships and scholarships throughout her master's studies made a significant difference in lowering her financial burden.

"It wasn't easy balancing time and applications," she noted, "but the opportunities to work closely with professors through assistantships not only helped with tuition but enriched my academic experience."

She also mentioned that careful budgeting and exploring less expensive online options for some courses further eased costs.

Ultimately, she viewed the investment as worthwhile, given the expanded career opportunities and professional growth that came with her advanced degree. Her story underscores the importance of planning and proactively seeking financial support to navigate tuition complexities in history programs.

What Jobs Can You Get with Each Type of History Degree?

The level of history degree you earn significantly influences your career opportunities and the types of roles you can qualify for. Generally, higher degrees lead to more specialized, senior, or academic positions, whereas entry-level degrees prepare graduates for support or generalist jobs.

Below is an outline of common jobs associated with each type of history degree to help you plan your career path.

These options also reflect the increasing salary potential and responsibility that come with advanced degrees.

Associate Degree in History: Graduates with an associate degree typically secure entry-level jobs such as administrative assistants, museum technicians, or tour guides at historical sites. These roles often involve supporting research, maintaining collections, or educating visitors, commonly within museums, libraries, or visitor centers. Salary ranges for these positions usually fall between $30,000 and $40,000 annually.
Bachelor's Degree in History: A bachelor's degree opens doors to careers like secondary school teacher (with additional certification), research assistant, museum educator, government analyst, or paralegal. These roles may include teaching, conducting historical research, preparing educational content, or assisting legal teams with historical context. According to recent data, median salaries for these positions typically range from $45,000 to $60,000 per year.
Master's Degree in History: With a master's degree, graduates can pursue specialized roles such as archivist, museum curator, public historian, or community college instructor. Responsibilities often cover managing collections, designing museum exhibitions, or teaching at the postsecondary level. Median salaries for these positions are generally between $60,000 and $65,000 annually. Those interested in further education might explore affordable master's degrees online to enhance their qualifications.
Doctorate (PhD) in History: A doctorate is usually required for university professor, lead historian, or principal researcher positions. In these roles, professionals conduct original research, publish scholarly work, and teach advanced university courses. Median salaries range from $75,000 to over $100,000, varying by institution and experience.

How Do Salaries Differ by History Degree Type?

Degree level often influences earning potential for history graduates, with higher degrees generally leading to better salaries and more career opportunities. Understanding these differences can help students make informed educational and career decisions.

Below is an outline of typical salary ranges for each history degree type and key factors affecting earnings.

Associate Degree in History: Entry-level positions for those with an associate degree usually offer salaries around $30,000-$40,000 per year. These roles often include clerical work, administrative support, or teaching assistant positions. Advancement typically requires further education, as salaries remain limited at this level.
Bachelor's Degree in History: The average early-career salary ranges from $32,000 to $40,000 annually, although the overall average salary for history majors can reach about $62,000 with experience. Salaries vary by industry, with business, government, and research sectors often paying more than education or non-profits.
Master's Degree in History: Graduates with a master's degree qualify for specialized roles such as archivist, curator, or historian, with median salaries near $63,940. Higher pay is common in large cities or federal agencies, and master's holders tend to have greater access to college-level teaching jobs and long-term earning potential.
Doctoral Degree (PhD) in History: A PhD opens opportunities for academic and senior research positions, including university professor roles. Salaries for full-time professors typically range from $60,000 to over $100,000 depending on institution and location. Top earners in academia and government can exceed $105,000, especially with tenure or administrative responsibilities.

When exploring options, students may also consider universities with low tuition programs that accept financial aid to manage education costs while pursuing degrees that impact future salary prospects.

Is There High Demand for History Degree Holders in the Job Market?

The demand for history degree holders in the traditional job market remains limited, especially for roles focused solely on historical research or academic positions. Employment for historians is projected to grow at a slow rate of only 2 percent from 2024 to 2034, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

This slower growth means that competition for the roughly 300 annual job openings will remain high, with many positions available mainly to replace retiring professionals. Factors influencing demand include regional differences-some areas show a greater need for museum professionals or educators, while others favor policy analysts or public service roles.

Additionally, emerging technologies have introduced niche opportunities in digital archiving and public history, although these fields have not yet expanded enough to significantly increase overall demand.

Many employers value the transferable skills developed through a history degree, such as critical thinking, analytical writing, and adaptability, which help graduates transition into sectors like government, law, and business. Despite these challenges, history graduates who engage with interdisciplinary credentials or experiential learning can enhance their employability.

For instance, pursuing undergraduate dual degree programs allows students to combine history with complementary fields, addressing workforce needs for versatile and analytical thinkers. In essence, while history-specific career opportunities are modest and competitive, the broader job market benefits from the versatile skill set history graduates provide.

Those entering the workforce with additional credentials or experience tend to find more openings beyond traditional history careers, especially as employers increasingly seek candidates who can synthesize information and adapt to evolving roles.

What Factors Should You Consider When Picking a Type of History Degree?

Choosing the right degree level in history is a critical decision that directly impacts how well your education aligns with your long-term career goals and personal circumstances. Each degree level offers different depths of study and professional opportunities, so careful consideration is essential before committing.

Below are key factors to evaluate when selecting the type of history degree that best fits your needs.

Career Goals: The type of degree influences the range of job opportunities available. Entry-level roles like research assistants or museum technicians might require an associate or bachelor's degree, while careers in academia, archival research, or museum curation often demand a master's or PhD. Students should research the qualifications needed for their desired roles and consider median salary expectations, such as $63,940 for historians with advanced degrees in 2022.
Time Commitment: The duration of study varies significantly by degree. A bachelor's degree typically takes four years, a master's adds about two more, and a PhD can require five to seven additional years. Prospective students need to assess how much time they can invest before entering the workforce to ensure it fits their personal timelines.
Areas of Specialization: Different programs offer a variety of concentrations such as military, cultural, or social history. Selecting a program that specializes in your area of interest helps build relevant expertise and enhances job prospects in specific fields.
Program Structure and Flexibility: Some degree programs provide interdisciplinary coursework, independent research options, or international study opportunities, while others have strict requirements. Evaluating curriculum flexibility can help match your learning preferences and future plans.
Institution Reputation and Faculty Expertise: Attending a program with well-regarded faculty and strong research resources can improve networking opportunities, mentorship, and access to internships or archives. These aspects are crucial for career development in history-related fields.

What History Graduates Say About Their Degree and Salary

Jung: "Completing my bachelor's degree in public history opened doors I never imagined. The hands-on experience working with archives and museums gave me unique insights that employers highly value. I love that my work helps preserve our community's story and educate others about diverse cultural backgrounds. This degree didn't just provide a career path; it shaped my passion for history's relevance today."

Helen: "As a graduate with a history education degree, I found great fulfillment in blending my love for history with teaching. The program prepared me thoroughly to engage young minds and develop critical thinking skills in students. Over the years, I've witnessed firsthand how learning about history fosters empathy and civic responsibility. It's a rewarding challenge to inspire the next generation through history's lessons."

Ulysses: "Pursuing a master's in military history offered me a deep specialization that enhanced my career in strategic analysis. The rigorous research and analytical training sharpened my professional skills in both public and private sectors. I appreciate how this degree reflects a commitment to understanding the complexities of past conflicts and their impact on global affairs. It's been instrumental in advancing my role as a consultant."

Other Things You Should Know About History Degree Programs & Salaries

What is the average salary for a history major with a bachelor's degree?

Graduates with a bachelor's degree in history typically earn an average salary between $40,000 and $50,000 annually. Entry-level positions often include roles in education, archives, or administration, which tend to have moderate starting salaries in comparison to other fields.

Do history master's degree holders earn significantly more than bachelor's graduates?

Yes, individuals with a master's in history generally earn higher salaries than those with only a bachelor's degree. The master's degree qualifies graduates for more specialized roles like museum curators or policy analysts, often offering salaries ranging from $60,000 to $80,000 depending on experience and location.

Are there salary differences between academic and non-academic history careers?

Salary differences do exist, with academic roles such as university professors often offering higher earnings at senior levels but sometimes lower initial pay compared to non-academic roles.

Non-academic careers in government or private sectors can provide competitive salaries, especially with advanced history degrees and relevant experience.

Can certifications or additional training impact history graduates' salaries?

Yes, history graduates who obtain certifications or additional training in fields like archival science or public history can increase their earning potential. These credentials often enable access to higher-paying specialized roles in museums, libraries, or heritage management.