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On August 4, 2026, American Public University System combined with Rasmussen University and Hondros College of Nursing to form a single higher education institution. American Public University System (the System) now includes American Public University, American Military University, Rasmussen University, and Hondros College of Nursing. The System is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Public Education, Inc. (APEI). We are continuing to update our website to reflect our new structure.

 

09/03/2026

what is a history degree

 

Understanding History Degree Coursework, Research, and Learning Paths

History is more than memorizing dates. It is the study of how people, societies, cultures, and ideas have changed over time. For learners comparing majors, a history degree may offer a flexible academic path built around research, writing, analysis, and interpretation.

Explore how history programs are typically structured, what history majors may learn, and how studying history may help learners build skills that apply across education, public service, museums, communications, and related fields.

 

How a History Degree Program Is Structured

A history degree is an academic program focused on the critical study of past events, societies, cultures, and ideas. Students may examine historical events through evidence, context, and interpretation rather than simple memorization.

Learners may study world history, American history, European history, ancient civilizations, and world civilizations. They may also explore social movements, political systems, cultural change, and the modern world.

 

Skills History Majors May Develop

History majors typically learn how to ask strong questions, compare viewpoints, and evaluate evidence. This may include working with primary and secondary sources, such as letters, government records, photographs, books, and scholarly articles.

Through this research process, history majors may build critical thinking, communication skills, writing skills, and research skills. These transferable skills may support work involving research, communication, and analysis across a variety of settings.

 

What Students Typically Study in a History Degree Program

A history degree may include survey courses, specialized seminars, and research papers. A Bachelor of Arts in history typically includes broad introductory courses followed by upper-level classes on specific regions, themes, or time periods.

History programs may also include a capstone course. This project might ask learners to complete original research, analyze historical data, and present an evidence-based argument using primary and secondary sources.

Students pursuing a degree in history may study world history, American history, military history, environmental history, women’s and gender history, economic history, and cultural history. Some courses focus on ancient civilizations, while others examine recent global events. Specialized topics could possibly include the Cold War, the Mexican Revolution, medieval history, public history, or art history. This broad understanding may help students see how local, national, and global events connect.

Associate Degree in History

An associate degree in history typically introduces students to foundational topics in world and American history. It may be designed as a two-year option and may serve as a stepping stone toward a bachelor’s degree.

For learners who are still exploring majors, an associate degree may provide a structured way to study historical thinking, writing, and research before choosing a longer academic path.

Bachelor’s Degree in History

A bachelor’s degree in history typically takes about four years to complete, though this can vary. Students may study broad historical themes while choosing electives that match their interests.

A bachelor’s degree may include concentrations or related coursework in areas such as art history, political science, international relations, or philosophy. This degree in history may help students build critical thinking skills and writing skills through regular reading, discussion, and research.

Graduate Degrees in History

Graduate degrees in history typically focus on a more specific area, such as a region, time period, or theme, like American History. A master’s program may require advanced coursework, language study, archival research, or a thesis.

A doctoral degree may involve deeper specialization and a dissertation based on original research. Students considering graduate school should review program expectations carefully, especially if they are interested in research-intensive work, teaching, library science, or cultural institutions.

 

How to Decide Whether a History Degree Is a Good Fit

Studying history may be a strong fit for learners who enjoy reading, writing, asking questions, and interpreting evidence. It may also appeal to students who want to better understand societies, cultures, and the causes behind change.

A history degree offers a broad academic foundation rather than one fixed path. Students comparing majors may want to review course requirements, transfer credits, online learning options, and research opportunities before deciding whether a degree in history aligns with their goals.

 

Exploring the Value of a History Degree

A degree in history may help students explore the past while building skills in research, writing, communication, and analysis. From an associate degree to a bachelor’s degree, graduate degrees, or a doctoral degree, each level offers a different depth of study.

For learners drawn to historical questions, public history, cultural institutions, education, or related fields, history may provide a thoughtful academic foundation for continued exploration.

If you are considering where studying history could lead, explore "What Can You Do With a History Degree?" to learn about the types of fields and opportunities history graduates may consider.