Every story has a backstory; a history of how that particular narrative unfolded, of how the society we live in came to be, and of how the institutions, values and ideologies of society have changed or persisted over time. You’ll study these processes of change from different locations and time periods, from the ancient to the modern world. Additionally, you’ll learn about a range of cultures from Indigenous societies before colonization to the modern global scene.
Throughout the courses in this program, you’ll read eyewitness testimonies of major historical events, watch documentaries and other films that bring the past alive, and review historical monographs that examine topics such as war and peace, social and political unrest and more.
What you can do with a history degree
This program prepares you for a variety of opportunities in the public, private and nonprofit sectors. Studying history exposes you to historical narratives and the research behind them while improving your critical thinking capabilities and ability to communicate clearly and effectively. You can also expect to build capabilities related to:
- Finding and evaluating evidence.
- Performing qualitative and quantitative analysis.
- Presenting research and conclusions in a way that engages your audience.
- Using and creating digital media.
These skills have many applications and are crucial to informing citizens in a democracy. Beyond being useful for historians and history teachers, these abilities are also valuable assets for park rangers, researchers, law consultants, project managers and c-suite business leaders.
Earn your bachelor’s and master’s in history in less time
This bachelor’s degree can be completed as part of an Accelerated Master’s program. When accepted, you can earn a Master of Arts in history in as little as one year after completing your undergraduate degree. This opportunity saves you time and money while giving you advanced knowledge in your field.
The history master’s program provides a wide breadth of historical understanding and perspectives. Upon graduating, you’ll be equipped with the advanced capabilities and skills historians need to work in the field.
Arizona State University’s online Bachelor of Arts in history focuses on the growth and development of human society from a political, social, economic and cultural perspective. In this program, you’ll gain the skills needed to assess evidence, sort out conflicting interpretations and draw informed conclusions about the ever-changing world we live in. An online history degree is perfect for those interested in careers in law, business, education and policy-making.
This program’s curriculum encourages you to take a closer look at common interpretations of events and understand how these narratives formed. With an emphasis on research and analysis, you’ll learn how to make in-depth and original conclusions.
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
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.
students enrolled as of fall 2024
in research expenditures in FY23
interdisciplinary schools and departments
undergraduate degrees
graduate degrees
for humanities research, according to the National Science Foundation
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.”