phd in history through distance education

25 Best Online Doctorate in History Programs Top Online PhD History

Find your degree.

Get a personalized list of degree programs that fit your needs.

Updated: July 20, 2024

If you are considering going all the way in history, you have probably already done so much to get to this point in your life. You are moving towards a dream and you want to, of course, take the right path, to access exactly what you are looking for. Most people who get their doctorate in history online are looking to go beyond their master’s degree to specialize in their career and/ or teach at the academic level.

Some people get their terminal degree to work in government or are even law. There are many places to go, and the best online history PhD programs will show you that this terminal degree generally comes with a specialized path. Generally, those who take this journey do it because they are incredibly passionate about a specific historical framework, period, and niche. Therefore, finding an online PhD in history program should not be as challenging. You’ll be attracted to the program that offers what you’re looking for. 

Recommended Online Doctoral Programs

Explore our featured online programs to find the right match for you today.

Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Online History Doctorate Programs

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, your academic investment in this field will most likely not be in vain. It appears that the field will grow three percent in the next ten years, which means its growth rate is a little faster than the average. We have ranked the best online history doctoral programs for you according to the following metric:

• Students Success Rate

University of Florida Gainesville, FL

To kick off this best online history programs list is, the University of Florida offers an Ed.D. in curriculum & instruction entirely online. What is standout about this program is it is structured with the practicing educator in mind. The online program has online specialization teachers, schools, and society. This program links up well with a history background, as a high percentage of history majors move on to educational settings.

Yet even if you don’t, some history majors want to move on to the educational sector in public policy in the state department so having this degree can pair up well with professionals in a variety of sectors with a historical background. History program applicants must have a master’s with a specialization closely linked to education and have at least three years in the field experience. There are several coursework requirements, TSS courses are 30 credits, research credits 12, and dissertation 18 credit minimum. 

Degree: Ed.D. in Curriculum & Instruction

School Type: Public

Graduate Tuition: $10,770

Lehigh University Bethlehem, PA

Lehigh University has an Ed.D in Educational Leadership . This course of study was created to enhance the skills of professionals aspiring to advance their standing and position in their company. Graduates of this program move on to accept positions as school administrators, faculty members, leaders with community organizations, research, leaders in government agencies, or educational analysts. This doctoral program is 60 credits of coursework, and students can decide whether they choose to pursue a full-time or part-time enrollment. Courses in history programs include classes in topics such as special education law, curriculum design, policy and politics in public education, and school law and ethics.

To qualify for acceptance into this history program, applicants must have a 3.0 GPA for undergraduate work and 3.6 for master’s degree courses at the time of graduation. A GRE and/or MAT exam scores are required. To become the future leader of our societies and communities needs stamina and hard work. 

Degree: Ed.D. Educational Leadership

School Type: Private

Graduate Tuition:$27,810

Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University offers an Ed.D in Curriculum & instruction,  this program is given in a cohort structure that takes students up to four years to complete. All 64 credits of the coursework tackle education in public or private settings instructional assessment, and curriculum building and instruction. This program requires at least 5 years of practice experience teaching, several writing samples, and applicants must submit GRE scores. This best online Ph.D. in history is the next step for a history teacher, or history master degree graduate once they have worked as a teacher for a while.

The exciting aspect of the program is the online format, allowing candidates to continue working until they complete a doctorate. The three core learning outcomes are broken down between leadership discovery and application of knowledge. There are internship hours required for this degree, the student must undergo 300 hours of a professional internship, which can be broken up between two semesters. 

Degree: ED.D. in Curriculum & Instruction

Graduate Tuition: $6,885

Arizona State University

Arizona State University has an EdD in leadership and innovation is for the change makers, those that have a vision for the future of education and educational institutions. Having a firm understanding of the historical effects policy and notable events have had on the current educational institutions is helpful. This best online Ph.D. will pair well with a candidate with a foundation in history. There are 20 primary courses that total out to 90 credits with course periods lasting between 7-15 weeks. Featured courses of the program are, advanced quantitative methods, mixed methods of inquiry, systems change and leadership, and leadership for organizational change.

To change the system you first have to know how it got that way and the history of the people you are changing it for. Dive into the rigorous educational environment of this program will require a self-motivated learning practice, faculty members will be there to guide you, yet it is on the student to complete coursework on time. 

Degree: EdD in Leadership and Innovation

Graduate Tuition: $10,170

Indiana University-Bloomington Bloomington, IN

Ed.d in literacy, culture, and language education offered by Indiana University is online and an expert program for students of culture and people. The entire course of study in 60 credit hours all online. This degree is structured in a cohort model to encourage networking, students will advance throughout the program together and in the process become career-long colleagues. This collaborative process within the program in a virtual format opens the door to diversity as online students will be able to share experiences from all over the countries they tackle the core learning outcomes.

The program’s purpose is for professionals to strengthen their knowledge of language and literacy in the current times, discovering the evolution of language as a result of the change in many cultures in our shared society. Students will take courses like theoretical issues in the language in education, doctoral early inquiry in literature. 

Degree: Ed.D. in Literacy, Culture, and Language Education

Graduate Tuition: $10,133

Florida International University Miami, FL

Florida International University offers a Ph.D. in Atlantic History , an advanced study degree delivered entirely online. The whole course of study for this program is 45 credits if the student is accepted with a master’s degree, if applicants are accepted with a bachelor’s, 75 credits are required to receive a degree, with 15 of those credits dedicated to the dissertation. Which can only be earned once a comprehensive examination is passed. The study of the Atlantic world is an advanced study starting from pre-colonial times to the modern era. The learning goals are that students become experts in skills related to research, teaching, and innovative historical practices. Graduate candidates will have the opportunity to present papers at regional conferences and publish ongoing research. It is highly encouraged by faculty for students to take advantage of these opportunities. The history department also has concentrations related to Latin America, Africa, the United States, or Europe.

Doctoral History Programs Degree: Ph.D. in Atlantic History

Graduate Tuition: $9,119

University of Arkansas Fayetteville, AR

The University of Arkansas offers a doctor of education in educational leadership program a professional degree for individuals pursuing positions as principals superintendent or in federal and state government agencies. For those with a master of bachelors in history, this is the best online Ph.D. in history, education, and leadership. Although this program is only for history majors that have a desire to continue to pursue the educational sector, this may also lead to a position in government developing policy and curriculums for public schools and private schools all over the country. Becoming a part of the network of professionals connected to this institution of learning is often a reason enough for students to choose this program. However other key facts to note are that required coursework accounts for 42 credit hours. 

Degree: Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership

Graduate Tuition: $7,092

University of Houston Houston, TX

The University of Houston offers an Ed.D in social studies with an emphasis in social education. Obtaining a degree in social studies is the next step in the educational career of history, while finding the best online Ph.D. in history is somewhat difficult this list has found several that will match up with the aspirational goal of those looking to become history teachers, educational policymakers, or a historian. The purpose of this program is to build educators who intend to root themselves in educational institutions. The entire course load is 52 credit hours and delivered via an online format, professionals can assess on their schedule. Graduates of this degree will obtain a doctorate of education in leadership, and be able to grapple with the issues of teaching in an urban setting. This program will help professionals teach students with developmental reading problems and assess collaboratively.

Doctoral History Programs Degree: ED.D in SOCIAL STUDIES

Graduate Tuition: $8,723

George Mason University Fairfax, VA

George Mason University has a Ph.D. in history this professional degree will advance careers in digital media educational administration, and help students gain expert knowledge of technologies used online to store historical data and standard historical methods. Graduate candidates will have the choice to choose from full-time or part-time enrollment. Students will enjoy taking their degree courses based on their own interests from the major field choices, US history, European history, and world history. Minor fields can be chosen from areas of study such as public history constitutional studies and new media and information technology. The program will groom students for careers in academia museums and digital humanities centers. There is a new fellowship available to those that are passionate about investigating the digital history and its applications. The exciting facts of this course are that while this program is rigorous with a required 72 credit hours, there is so much to choose from, and a range of areas to build from that will allow students to shape their studies around topics that are meaningful to them. 

Degree: Ph.D. in History

Graduate Tuition: $13,726

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Lincoln, NE

The University of Nebraska offers an ED.D in Educational Leadership and Higher Education in a hybrid program, the majority of the coursework is delivered online yet all the Ph.D. candidates are required to attend 6 credits of research seminars on campus. This is a leadership program that will guide interested individuals through to advanced standing in their field. Primary leadership roles in educational organizations. They offer three specializations, educational leadership, high education administration, college community leadership. Graduates of this program will not qualify for administrative certification, as some may assume. It is safe to acknowledge the correlation between a master’s in history and this Ph.D. leadership degree as a next step will coincide with the written and analytical skills that will work well with this program. There are 96 required credit hours necessary to receive a degree, 18 of which are research at a doctorate level of study.

Degree: ED.D in Educational Leadership and Higher Education

School Type: Public 

Graduate Tuition: $6,318

Texas Tech University Lubbock, TX

Texas Tech University’s online Ed.D in educational leadership, is the next step for those that aspire to become executive leaders in the educational sector. This online degree, focus on the excelling leaders in the K-12 public and private educational institutions. Applicants of this program must have taken the GRE and have 3 professional recommendations to submit with an application into the program. The Ph.D. course amounts to 66 credits hours, 54 toward the major topics of the degree, 12 for the dissertation, and 30 transferable master credits for a total of 96 credit hours total. Another notable fact about this degree is the extra opportunities, the doctoral summer institutes when students come to campus for the required research seminars, students get to collaborate on projects. As the school is partnered with the Carnegie project for an educational doctorate, students will have the chance to present work, publish, and network with other students in the program. 

Degree Type: Ed.D. in Educational leadership

Graduate Tuition: $6,956

University of South Carolina-Columbia Columbia, SC

The University of South Carolina has an Ed.D. in Educational Practice and Innovation , which is the prime choice for history buffs that want to use their knowledge to innovate the educational institutions, and rewrite the way we teach history as a curriculum.  The learning outcomes for this doctorate degree are to instill principles and techniques of instructional systems design. Students will also become skilled in creating educational technology, and learn integration methods for introducing technology into learning and performance assessments. This program will develop experts in educational technology, which has become the common modality. Start times are spring summer or fall, and students will attend full time as course work is offered completely online with 8- 15 weeks per course. This best online Ph.D. in history is a perfect coupling for those aspiring to reshape how we receive information and disseminate historical facts. The entire degree consists of 60 credit hours of course work with a dissertation presentation and writing. 

Degree Type: Ed.D. in Educational Practice and Innovation

Graduate Tuition: $13,374

Oregon State University Corvallis, OR

Oregon State University offers an Ed.D. in Adult and Higher Education delivered via a hybrid, online coursework and in-person two weekends per term, with 108 credit hours required for completion. The program is structured in a cohort format, which allows for small groups and collaborative instruction. While pursuing a Ph.D. is extremely rigorous, making the choice of which program to take can be just as difficult. This program highlights its mission to support the educational sector by enhancing professional leadership from an advanced degree. This takes the compounding of key leadership skills, management, vision, and commitment to the mission. Graduates of the program will go on to perform as Deans, Director, vice president, and president of a public or private institution. It is worthy to note that this program is not a teacher licensure program. 

Degree Type: Ed.D. in Adult and Higher Education

Graduate Tuition: 13,446

University of North Dakota Grand Forks, ND

University of North Dakota Ph.D. in Teaching and leadership is preparing professionals to reach for the top echelon on their career path. History majors are leaders in every field they go into, seeking out the next step in their career. To be a leader in an educational institute, one would need to have a background in research, be excellent in a written and oral presentation, understand the importance of history and how today’s event has an effect on tomorrow. To complete this course of study candidates must undertake 90 credit hours of coursework. This best online Ph.D. is offered wholly online there are several concentration students, Childhood and Adversity Resilience, Constructivism in STEM Education, Family, School, and Community Engagement, Instructional Coaching, Leadership in Curriculum & Learning, Literacy, Language & Culture, School Reform & Public Policy

Degree Type: Ph.D. in Teaching and Leadership

Graduate Tuition: $11,963 

University of Kentucky Lexington, KY

The University of Kentucky has an Ed.D in Educational Leadership that is formatted in a closely structured cohort style instruction. This is an online program in which all the coursework is offered entirely online. Educational Leadership is at the foundation of great change initiatives in our country. In the last 70 years, civil rights movements and anti-war movements were all started on the campus of public and private institutions all over the world. Developing the future leaders of those institutions is necessary, and the mission of this advanced doctoral program.  Courses are online but the live discussion sessions within your cohort are also key to the learning experience. Candidates are required to complete 42 credit hours of postgraduate coursework. The faculty is dedicated to teaching within the values of the school and program, leadership, transformation, and collaboration are a few of the stalwart values at the core of the work. 

Degree Type: Ed.D in Educational Leadership

Graduate Tuition: $12,967

Andrews University Berrien Springs, MI

Andrews University offers a Ph.D. in educational leadership that is designed to train students to be leaders in a variety of fields . This is an excellent complement to the Andrews University MA in Educational Leadership pathway. Both are offered through the Distance Learning Graduate Studies Department. Typically, students can complete this program in four years. It is made up of 64 credit hours. It is fully accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and it is nationally recognized by the Educational Leadership Constituent Council. Andrews is a Christian based school with a Christian worldview. Students have access to technical support throughout the program as well as academic support. It is critical that students are prepared to engage in such an online learning endeavor by ensuring they have a stable internet connection and a computer that can run all of their coursework. 

Degree Type: Ph.D. in Educational Leadership

Graduate Tuition: $27,380

Drexel University Philadelphia, PA

Drexel University offers one of the best online Ph.D. programs . This program was designed to foster leaders in the complex field of education. Students will learn how to develop the skills to lead in a myriad of contexts and sites, as well as colleges and other institutions of higher learning, government, foundations, school districts, and even non-profits. Students will choose from one of the following concentrations: athletic administrative doctoral concentration, creativity, and innovation doctoral concentration, educational administration doctoral concentration, global and international education doctoral concentration, human resource development doctoral concentration, learning technologies doctoral concentration, nursing education, special education leadership doctoral concentration. This online program still brings students together in cohorts, ensuring they have built-in support and collaboration opportunities throughout the entire course of the program. The coursework is known for being challenging and consuming, but worth its weight in the skills that you will step away with and overall experience. 

Degree Type: Ed. D In Educational Leadership and Management

Graduate Tuition: $36,234

Fordham University Bronx, NY

Fordham University offers the best online history Ph.D. program . The degree is technically an EdD in Educational Leadership, Administration, and Policy. This course of study is offered through their Graduate School of Education. They offer three distinct specializations including: problem-solving and design, social justice and ethics, and scholarly inquiry and research. The entire course of study is designed to be completed in three years’ time. It is made up of 50 credit hours. There is one start date per year, so it’s important to apply by the deadline and get prepared. There are many career paths that are applicable for those who complete this program including: administrator, public policy leader, school and district leader, nonprofit leader, superintendent, and assistant superintendent. The curriculum in this program consists of such courses as engaging and transforming schools, districts, and communities, leading teaching and learning, educational leadership and organizational change, and engaging and transforming schools, districts, and communities. 

Degree Type: Ed.D in Educational Leadership, Administration and Policy

Graduate Tuition: $25,080

Liberty University Lynchburg, VA

Liberty University offers a Ph.D. program in history that is delivered entirely online . The program can be completed in four years’ time. The entire course of study is made up of 75 credit hours. Students can transfer up to 50 percent of their degree from another academic experience into this program. Liberty University offers an evangelical Christian approach to education. Students will gain a Christian historical perspective in all of their teaching. This program is fully accredited by the SACSCOC. Liberty offers an affordable academic experience. They give a significant military discount and students have access to additional financial aid. The featured courses in this program include: historiography, American entrepreneurship since 1900, historical professions, and development of western freedoms. Students will be prepared to engage in a variety of career paths including museum curation, education, law, political science-oriented professions, among many others. 

Degree Type: Ph.D. in History

Graduate Tuition: $7,740

Concordia University-Chicago River Forest, IL

Concordia University Chicago offers a Ph.D. in Leadership program that is delivered entirely online . This is a Christian oriented program that is designed to embed scripture in all of the coursework. The entire course of study is made up of 67 credit hours. There are many doctoral specializations that students can choose from including: curriculum instruction, teacher leadership, early childhood education, sports leadership, educational technology, special education, gerontology, reading, language and literature, health and human performance, organizational leadership, and higher education. Engaged in the curriculum are the skills to conduct complex research, communication, conflict mediation, decision making, communication, change management, among many other topics that are leadership-oriented. Students in this program will have options to study abroad and connect to other innovative field experiences. Graduates will be prepared to hold leadership positions in nonprofits, roles in government, professional roles in business, among many others.                          

Degree Type: Ph.D. in Leadership

Graduate Tuition: $10,458

Regent University Virginia Beach, VA

Regent University offers a Ph.D. in Education that is delivered entirely online . This is considered one of the best online history Ph.D. programs. The entire course of study is made up of at least 75 credit hours. There are several concentrations that doctoral students can choose from which include: special education, K-12 student leadership, higher education leadership and management, higher education, exception education executive leadership, educational technology and online learning, educational psychology, curriculum and instruction, Christian education leadership, character education, advanced educational leadership, and adult education. Those who have completed this program have achieved careers in positions such as principal researchers, university faculty, school administrators, and superintendent. A program like this is bound to build on a career you already have but offer higher earning potential. One of the things that draw students to this particular program is the Christian worldview that it offers. 

Doctoral Degree Type: Ph.D in Education

Graduate Tuition: $16,128

Wilmington University New Castle, DE

Wilmington University offers an EdD in Organizational Leadership specifically in learning and innovation . This doctoral program is offered through its distinguished College of Education. The entire program is made up of eighteen classes, which equates to 54 credits. Doctoral students can complete the doctoral program in as little as three years. This history phD program pathway is considered to be interdisciplinary in reach. There are multiple concentrations to choose from including: workplace learning and talent development, strategic leadership, and the student-designed learning pathway. Students will all participate in research core courses including: disciplined inquiry and writing, assessment and evaluation methods, problem-centered research in organizational learning in two parts. Each student will undergo consulting field experience when they complete their coursework. This is one of the aspects of the history phD program that makes it unique and also desirable. Each year, students will participate in summer institutes, the third of which is where they will do their consulting reporting. 

Doctoral Degree Type: EdD in Organizational Leadership, Learning and Innovation

Graduate Tuition: $9,432

Franklin University Columbus, OH

Franklin University offers a doctor of professional studies in instructional design in leadership . It is considered one of the best online history phD programs for a number of reasons. Many doctoral students find this doctoral program because they are looking for a Christian foundation in the framework for which history is told. In addition, this is considered one of the more flexible history phD program options, as it allows students to transfer in at least 24 previously earned academic credits. There are accelerated ways to undergo this history phD program. For example, students can complete the program in a fast-paced three year time period. This includes a one-year dissertation experience. Another perk about this program is that it is very easy to customize and make it exactly what you want it to be. It is designed for those who want to expressly become leaders in instructional design. 

Doctoral Degree Type: DPS in Instructional Design Leadership

Graduate Tuition: $12,060

University of the Cumberlands Williamsburg, KY

The University of the Cumberlands offers a Ph.D. in leadership studies that is considered one of the best online history Ph.D. programs . Doctoral s tudents in this doctoral program will learn the most advanced leadership skills that can propel them into a variety of career paths following program completion. Maybe people engage in programs such as this one because they are interested in administrative roles in education or within organizations on the community or corporate level. This can also feed into the career path of project managers or business professionals. This history phD program offers many options for specialization. Students will choose one of the following areas of focus: student personnel, religion, nursing, math, information systems, history, health sciences, English, education, criminal justice, and business. This history phH program is designed to be flexible and convenient, as all of the coursework is delivered online. You will have access to excellent faculty mentorship and networking opportunities with your peers. 

Doctoral Degree Type: Ph.D. in Leadership Studies

Graduate Tuition: $4,260

Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, FL

Keiser University offers the best online history Ph.D. program that emphasizes educational leadership . This particular program is designed to foster academic maturity. This program is designed to support students to be change-makers in their communities and schools. The program was designed to lift up leaders through research, writing, critical thinking among others that will support K-12 environments as well as post-secondary institutions. This course of study was designed to be flexible and convenient, as many students will maintain full-time employment while participating in the program. Prospective students must already have a master’s degree in a related field in order to apply. They are also expected to have a full CV with significant contributions to education under their belts to be a good candidate for the program as well. Some of the coursework in the program includes: community relations, academia, research, educational law, and even school district administration. 

Doctoral Degree Type: Ph.D. in Educational Leadership

Graduate Tuition: $33,390

Why Should I Get My PhD in History Online?

There are many reasons to go the route of achieving an online PhD in history . For starters, you are probably looking into this degree path out of a deep love for something you are already doing, and you want to go deeper, or you are interested in building an academic teaching career from a specialization that you can leave your mark on.

There are many online PhD programs in history, so why not find something that is screaming your name. This could be a program about just the subject you are passionate about, or a building block that will let you deepen a discipline that holds your passion. There are many online history PhD programs out there, and finding the right one can make all the difference in the path that you carve out for yourself and the contribution you are able to make in the world. Once again, this can be the path that will set you on track to embark on the ultimate career. 

How Do I Choose an Online History PhD?

The best online PhD programs in history vary greatly. First off, it is important to look at programs that are accredited. Accreditation means they have been properly vetted by reliable sources, and therefore, offer the credibility that you need to ensure that they are safe and will give you what they say they will. Not to mention, finding the right program for you, in particular, is critical.

What this means is that you should invest the time in finding a program that really touches on the field for which you want to expand your expertise. In addition, if you require a very flexible format, it is important that you pick something that will allow you to participate in coursework from wherever you are whenever you can.

Many best online history PhD programs offer such flexibility, but you have to do the research to determine if there are in-person requirements along with other potential obligations that you want to be sure you can meet. Many programs offer a myriad of related networking opportunities that might be pertinent to your intended career path. If this is something that is interesting to you, you should seek out programs that will give you such opportunities. 

How Much Can I Make with a PhD in History? 

A history of PhD salary is quite variable. According to PayScale, on average, you are looking at something to the tune of $56,000 . Associate curators make something around $60,000, though a professor that teaches within a history department generally makes around $79,000. Some of the lower range salaries on this list are adjunct faculty who make around $37,000 and assistant professors who make around $50,000. A PhD in history salary is certainly not one size fits all, but you have some control, once you have your credentials, to go into the field that makes what you deem a comfortable salary.

25 Best Online Bachelor’s in History What Can I Do with an Master’s in History? 25 Best Online Master’s in History What Can I Do with a History Doctorate? Best Online DBA Programs Best Online Doctorate in Leadership Programs

What to Know About Earning an Online History Ph.D.

Explore and compare a list of accredited schools to enroll in your next program.

Want to study Civil War military tactics or research Silk Road trade networks at an advanced level? During an online Ph.D. in history program, you’ll investigate the past while strengthening your research, writing, and analytical skills.

The best online Ph.D. in history programs prepare graduates for careers in academia, teaching, writing, research, and public outreach. And with an online program, you can earn a doctorate in a flexible, accessible format.

Reasons to Get an Online History Ph.D.

• An online history Ph.D. prepares you for careers in teaching, research, and historical preservation and outreach.
• A flexible online format may appeal to busy adults and working professionals.
• High school teachers with a doctorate often earn higher salaries and qualify to teach college-level courses.
• You get to conduct research and strengthen both your analytical and writing skills while working on your dissertation.
• You can attend a quality program without needing to relocate or quit your job.

Did You Know…

History professors earned a median annual salary of $78,130 in May 2021, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Featured Online History Programs

Application requirements for an online ph.d. in history, what will you learn in an online history ph.d..

During an online history Ph.D. program, you’ll complete coursework requirements, specialize in a field of history, and defend a research-based dissertation.

Many programs require 2-3 years of history classes followed by comprehensive examinations. Depending on your specialization, you may also need to demonstrate proficiency in one or more foreign languages.

Common history specializations include:

• U.S. history
• Military history
• World history
• Public history
• Medieval history

After passing your exams, you’ll conduct original research to write and defend a dissertation. You’ll work closely with a faculty advisor and dissertation committee to complete your dissertation.

A doctorate in history builds strong research, analytical, and writing skills. Online programs may also incorporate teaching experience to prepare graduates for roles in the classroom.

Why Accreditation Matters for Online History Ph.D. Programs

If you want to get an online Ph.D. in history, it’s important you choose an accredited university.

Accredited schools meet high academic standards, hire qualified faculty, and report strong student learning outcomes. You’ll also qualify for federal financial aid programs if you attend an accredited institution.

Accreditation is an important sign of academic quality. Before applying to online history Ph.D. programs, make sure to check the school’s accreditation status .

History Ph.D. students can study anything from ancient Egyptian history to modern international relations.

What Can You Do With an Online Ph.D. in History?

With an online Ph.D. in history, you can work as a history professor at a community college, four-year college, or research university.

Outside of higher education, history Ph.D. grads can work as high school teachers, archivists, museum curators, writers, and editors. Many of these fields report above-average salaries and positive job growth over the next decade.

Source: BLS

Resources for History Ph.D. Students and Historians

American historical association.

The biggest membership group of historians in the world, AHA celebrates the range, variety, and ever-changing nature of history, accepting members from all history specializations.

National Council for History Education

This organization connects historians, teachers, education specialists, community leaders, and institutions to improve the quality of history instruction in schools.

Organization of American Historians

A professional society dedicated to U.S. history, OAH encourages the discussion of historical questions and original scholarship.

World History Association

This organization promotes members who teach, research, and publish history topics using a global, cross-cultural perspective.

Frequently Asked Questions About History Ph.D. Programs

Can you get a history ph.d. without a master’s.

Yes, you can earn a Ph.D. in history without a master’s degree. Many history Ph.D. programs admit candidates with just a bachelor’s degree; however, some programs recommend or require a master’s in history to enter the doctoral program.

How long does a Ph.D. in history take?

Earning a Ph.D. in history typically takes at least five years. That’s because doctoral programs require 2-3 years of coursework, comprehensive exams, and a research-based dissertation that may run over 300 pages. Many programs include foreign language requirements, too.

Does a Ph.D. in history make you a doctor?

Yes, earning an on-campus or online Ph.D. in history makes you a doctor. The doctor of philosophy degree, which is the highest degree in academia, qualifies graduates for college-level teaching and research roles.

Therefore, graduates with a Ph.D. in history can use the title “doctor.”

What percentage of history Ph.D.-holders get tenure-track jobs?

Fewer than half of history Ph.D. grads land tenure-track jobs in the years after earning their degree. For historians who earned a Ph.D. between 2014 and 2017, around 35% held a tenure-track job in 2022, according to the American Historical Association .

With fewer tenure-track job openings than Ph.D. graduates, students earning a Ph.D. in history should consider career paths outside academia.

Is it worth doing a Ph.D. in history?

A Ph.D. in history is worth the time, cost, and effort for many people. Earning a Ph.D. in history can strengthen your research, critical thinking, and writing skills. Doctoral students also conduct advanced research in their specialty areas.

That said, a Ph.D. in history requires a substantial time commitment. Consider your reasons for pursuing a Ph.D., the total cost of the program, and your career options before applying to on-campus or online history Ph.D. programs.

Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs 2024

Online Ph.D. programs provide students with flexible schedules and affordable tuition. Check out the top-ranked programs in this comprehensive guide.

Best Online Master’s in History Programs

Online History Courses

Shape your future with an online degree.

Connect with a community of peers, and find a program that will allow you to continue your education in a fast and flexible way.

Department of History

PhD in History (by distance learning)

Join our rich and thriving academic community and deliver research on key research areas in history, with the flexibility to study online.

Year of entry: 2024/25

If your passion lies in research, our doctoral degrees give you the independence to focus on a specialism of your choice. You'll have the flexibility to work from anywhere in the world. Study with us and receive expert research guidance from our supportive staff.

Your research

You'll focus on an independent research project on a topic of your choice. Your research will culminate in a dissertation of up to 90,000 words.

Join one of our leading research groups, which bring together historical expertise in various fields. Find out more about  our research groups .

[email protected]

Related links

• Research degree funding
• Accommodation
• International students
• Life at York
• How to apply

3rd in the UK for research impact

and 11th overall in the Times Higher Education ranking of the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021.

Committed to equality

We are proud to hold an Athena Swan Bronze award in recognition of the work we do to support gender equality in history.

Access to exclusive resources

Our Borthwick Institute for Archives houses one of the most extensive collections of archives in the UK. York Minster Library is the largest cathedral library in the UK and holds material spanning 1000 years of history. We also have strong partnerships and consultancies with museums, archives, heritage sites, the media, artists and community organisations.

Explore funding for postgraduate researchers in the Department of History.

Supervision

We'll help match your research interests to our supervisory expertise. Explore the expertise of our staff.

Training and support

Your progress throughout your degree will be continually guided by your supervisor , who will help you to hone your focus and deliver specialised research. Alongside regular online meetings with your supervisor, you'll attend a Thesis Advisory Panel (TAP), consisting of at least one member of staff in addition to your supervisor. You'll meet twice a year (yearly for part-time students) to discuss your research project, including more general professional development and career training.

Course location

This course is run by the Department of History.

You can study this course from around the world. You must attend a five-day induction programme in York at the beginning of your first year. You'll also visit York in your second and third years (every other year for part-time students).

Entry requirements

You should have, or be about to complete, an MA degree in History or an equivalent subject with a distinction or very high merit.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language you must provide evidence of your ability.

Check your English language requirements

Apply for this course

Take a look at the supporting documents you may need for your application.

Find out more about how to apply .

Identify a supervisor

As part of any application for a research degree you will need to name one or more academic staff who could supervise your research. You should approach them informally to discuss your proposed project before you apply.

Find a supervisor

As part of your application, you'll be interviewed by one or two academic staff members, including your prospective supervisor. The interview will last around 30 minutes to an hour, with plenty of time for you to ask questions and find out what York can offer you. Your interview can be in-person or online.

Careers and skills

Your PhD will help to extend your qualifications, giving you the ability to use research and historical thinking to shed light on historical problems and communicate this knowledge with others. You will become equipped with transferable skills in communication, data analysis, archival research and collaboration, opening the door to a wide range of career opportunities.

Our dedicated careers team offer specific support including a programme of professional researcher development and careers workshops and 1:1 career support sessions. They will help you to build up your employability portfolio and to engage in activities that will build up your skills and experience within and outside of your research work.

Career opportunities

• archives practitioner
• heritage manager
• academic researcher
• museum professional
• historic buildings conservation officer
• lecturer or teacher

Discover York

Distance learning at York

Learn more about the York approach to distance and online learning.

Support and resources

Explore the support and resources we offer for distance and online learners.

Discover more about why York is the perfect choice for your research degree.

Meet us online or on campus

Find out all you need to know about applying to York

Scholarships

Find scholarships to support your studies

Doctor of Philosophy in History (Ph.D.)

Learn more about lu.

By submitting contact information through this form, I agree that Liberty University and its affiliates may call and/or text me about its offerings by any phone number I have provided and may provide in the future, including any wireless number, using automated technology.

Message and data rates may apply. For additional information, text HELP to 49595 or 49596. You may opt-out at any time by sending STOP to 49595 or 49596. Visit for Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy .

15 colleges and schools

350+ degrees on-campus

600+ degrees online

20 NCAA Div. 1 Sports

Doctorate (Ph.D.) in History

Become an advanced historian with our ph.d. in history.

Are you interested in furthering your training, knowledge, and skillset so that you can pursue careers in education, research, politics, archaeology, or management of national landmarks or museums? Whatever your history-related career goals are, Liberty University’s Ph.D. in History provides the training and experience you’ll need to excel in academia or other career fields that require an extensive understanding of the past.

When you complete your doctorate in history, you’ll be prepared for a multitude of career opportunities. Most of our students join the world of academia as a professor, professional researcher, or academic publisher or editor. However, you can also pursue positions as a museum curator, international development specialist, author, archaeologist, or federal government employee.

So what are you waiting for? Academics and many other career fields need people like you who are knowledgeable about the undercurrents, culture, and societal standards surrounding historical events. We’re going to prepare you to excel in whatever career field you choose when you pursue our doctorate in history.

What Will You Learn in Your Ph.D. in History Program?

• How to apply a Christian worldview to the study of history
• How to conduct original research that is based upon knowledge of the literature of the discipline
• How to evaluate historiographic positions, like scholarly literature and interpretations, at the doctoral level
• How to apply historical methodology to professional settings

Career Opportunities for Ph.D. in History Graduates

• Academic publisher
• Archaeologist
• Federal government employee
• Higher education administrator
• International development specialist
• Museum curator
• Professional researcher

Benefits of Earning Your Online Ph.D. in History

As a leader in distance education since 1985, we understand what it takes to create a flexible and affordable education for busy people. Since we have been investing in distance and online learning for decades, our experience has taught us how to streamline our degree options so you can focus on what really matters to you. While many schools offer online degrees, we believe Liberty stands out.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• We are recognized by multiple institutions for our academic quality, affordability, and accessibility . Our commitment to excellence also helped us rank in the top 10% of Niche.com’s best online schools in America . Earning your online Ph.D. in History degree from a nonprofit university with this kind of recognition can help set you apart from others in your field.
• Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.
• This program is offered in an 8-week course format, with 8 different start dates each year, and no set login times!
• Students will benefit from networking opportunities with other professionals in the program from around the country.
• The Ph.D. in History is the only program of its kind offered from a conservative Christian worldview and an accredited university.
• Your degree requires experience both inside and outside the classroom, allowing you to be fully prepared for any professional setting you choose.

Military Tuition Discount

We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want — at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only  $300/credit hour . Here’s how:

• If you’re earning or have earned a master’s degree through Liberty, you automatically qualify for the low price (when you begin within 2 years of your master’s completion).
• If you haven’t earned a graduate degree through Liberty, our Executive Certificate program allows you to pay only $300/credit hour for a postgraduate certificate that can stand alone or potentially count as the first 21 hours of a related doctoral degree. Then pay just $300/credit hour for your doctorate. Learn more!

Credit Hours

Available Online

100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer Credits

Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Next Start Date

Sep 16, 2024

Accreditation

Liberty University is accredited by SACSCOC

Areas of Interest

Choose your area of Interest:

Training Champions for Christ

Liberty’s promise to you is an education that expertly brings knowledge and faith together. Here, education is designed around you. It connects you to people and opportunities that help you develop the skills and confidence you’re looking for. At Liberty, you’ll find the knowledge, experience, and mentorship you want to make your career — and life — a fulfilling one.

Why Liberty

Liberty University is not just another school. It is the realization of a dream, the product of thousands of prayers. It was built to invite students into a bigger, better story. Discover the Liberty difference for yourself.

Scholarships

When it comes to choosing a college, finances make a difference. That’s why at Liberty, we believe in offering you a top-notch education — that’s also affordable. Discover how Liberty can help you keep your college costs down.

For residential students

Online Discounts

At Liberty University, we believe everyone should have an equal opportunity to pursue higher education, and it's our job to keep private education affordable. Explore the many ways a Liberty education can be an affordable one.

For online students

Academic Excellence

Liberty University is institutionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, and certain programs have earned additional field-specific accreditation as well.

Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024

Key Takeaways

• The online history PhD program is a good option for working professionals with busy schedules.
• Online history PhD programs are a great option for aspiring historians, history professors, and historical research leaders.
• The best online history doctoral programs have institutional and programmatic accreditation.

Featured Programs

Only a select number of universities offer a PhD in history online. Though online history PhD programs are somewhat scarce, the online history programs that do offer a doctoral degree do have a high acceptance rate. This means that most students with a strong academic track record will enjoy access to these advanced online history PhD programs.

What are online PhD programs in history?

In history, a PhD is considered a terminal degree. This means a PhD is the highest degree that history students can earn. Online doctoral history programs can lead to opportunities for professional historical research, consultation for government agencies, professorship in a university history department, and more.

Online PhD in history candidates are typically already working at a high level in their field. Many are already working as history teachers or applying their research skills in supporting roles.

Often, this means that students seeking their PhD degree must balance existing work and personal responsibilities with a challenging course of education. For many graduate students, the online history PhD program makes this balance possible.

For a look at how the online history program stacks up against traditional on campus programs, check out our look at the Best Research Universities for History Degrees.

Or find other top schools with a look at the complete List of University Rankings .

Otherwise, read on and learn more about how you can earn your PhD in history online.

About Accredited Online History PhD Programs

The best online PhD in history programs will have proper accreditation. Be sure that your are pursuing your PhD in history through a fully accredited university and program:

• Institutional Accreditation : Accreditation is vital for online doctoral programs. It signifies that the online PhD programs offered by the online school are in compliance with the standards of a Department of Education-approved accrediting body.

A school must also be accredited in order to offer federal financial aid to its online doctorate candidates. When looking for an online doctoral program, seek out options with accreditation from a colleges and schools commission in your region. This stamp of approval is critical for ensuring the quality and credibility of your online program.

• Programmatic Accreditation : In addition to institutional accreditation, be sure that you prioritize online doctorate degree programs with programmatic accreditation.

While there is no specifically required programmatic accreditation for the general field of historical research, those who intend to work in post-secondary educational institutions may be required to complete a doctoral program with accreditation from the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). Make sure that you online history program offers the proper programmatic accreditation requirements for your career goals.

• Carnegie Classification : The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, or as it is more commonly known, the Carnegie Classification, is a framework for categorizing all accredited, degree-granting institutions in the United States.

Originally formulated in 1970 by The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, and administered through the University of Indiana’s Center for Postsecondary Research since 2014, the Carnegie Classification is “the leading framework for recognizing and describing institutional diversity in U.S. higher education.”

Under this classification, top research universities for doctoral degrees and PhD candidates are identified as either R2: Doctoral Universities for “high research activity” or R1: Doctoral Universities for “very high research activity.” Look for these classifications when considering options for your online PhD programs.

Key Point: Be sure that you only consider online PhD programs with proper accreditation.

Admission Requirements

Each online doctoral in history program has its own admission requirements. However, most online doctoral programs will carry the same basic threshold for admission:

• A completed online application
• Official undergraduate college transcripts
• A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0
• GRE scores, MAT scores, or GMAT scores
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal interviews
• Personal statement or writing sample
• Plan of study

Key Point: In most cases, you will be eligible to enter your online PhD in history after earning a bachelor’s degree. However, some specialized online PhD programs may require you to have earned a master’s degree as well.

Curriculum and Courses

As with other advanced degree and graduate programs, research is the central component of your online PhD in history program. This is true for fully online doctorate degrees as well as hybrid degrees combining online education with traditional on-campus courses.

Regardless of whether you complete a traditional, hybrid or online history PhD program, the typical time to completion is five to seven years.

The typical components of your online PhD program may include:

Foundational Courses

Some foundational online doctorate courses may be focused on your specific area of study.

You may be able to choose a concentration in an area such as:

• American history
• World history
• European history
• African history
• Latin American history
• Political science
• Ancient history

In addition to your core concentration courses, additional courses will focus on honing research skills and practicing experimental design. You may be able to complete many of these requirements through online classes.

Examinations for PhD Candidacy

Many online doctoral candidates are required to complete certain examinations to enter into online PhD candidacy. This will typically occur after you’ve completed one to two years of foundational courses.

Dissertation

In most cases, the central component of your online PhD program will be the completion of your dissertation. After gaining status as an online PhD in history candidate, you will typically work closely with a professorial advisor or mentor to develop an original research question.

This research question will form the basis of your dissertation—an ongoing project designed to address this research question through applied research. While you will work closely with your advisor or mentor, much of your dissertation will be rooted in independent research. This is especially true for students pursuing their PhD in history online.

Oral Defense

Upon completion of the written portion of your dissertation—which will typically present the findings from your original research project—you will be expected to defend your findings. This “oral defense” will typically be conducted by a commission of professors and experts in your field. PhD candidates in some online degree programs may be able to conduct this defense via teleconferencing.

Teaching Requirements

Some online PhD in history programs will also include a teaching component, which will require you to work as an adjunct professor or teacher’s assistant in an undergraduate or graduate school. It may be possible for students in the online doctoral degree program to also serve teaching requirements by instructing students through an online program.

Key Point: The online history PhD is a research-focused degree. Your dissertation will be a central part of your online PhD program.

Careers for Students Who Complete Online Doctoral History Programs

The online PhD in history is a terminal degree program. This means that PhD students who complete this online program will qualify for top positions and opportunities in their field.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that you may be able to qualify for work as a historian with a master’s degree in history. However, the highest paying careers in history are generally held by those working in research positions either for educational institutions or government agencies.

The BLS notes that the highest paid 10% of professionals in the history field earned more than $118,000 in 2021.

Earning an online PhD in history can lead to some of these top-paying roles in the field, including:

• Theoretical Research
• Scientific Research
• Post-Secondary Education
• Public Policy Consultation
• Clinical Practice
• Organizational Leadership

Key Point: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, graduates with a PhD in history will qualify for top-paying roles in educational institutions and government agencies.

What’s the difference between online doctoral programs and online PhD programs?

Technically, a PhD program is a type of doctorate degree program. This means that all online PhD candidates are doctoral students. By contrast, not all doctoral students are PhD candidates.

The primary distinction is that doctoral students are primarily focused on putting existing theories into practice. Depending on your chosen field, your online doctoral degree may require participation in an educational leadership program, engagement in clinical practice, work as a resident in a nursing program, and much more.

By contrast, online PhD students are focused on creating new knowledge in their area of study. This usually means that online PhD candidates are focused on introducing new theories, creating research projects around these theories, and presenting new findings that demonstrate a mastery of existing knowledge and the insight to introduce new ideas into the field.

Today, more working professionals than ever before are pursuing both online doctoral degrees and online PhD programs.

The Best Online History Doctorates (PhDs)

The online PhD in history programs identified here are ranked based on influence, with weighting for graduation rate and full-time online enrollment.

George Mason University

• #2 Best Public Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #2 Best Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #14 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
• #2 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Information Technology PhD Programs
• #4 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Accounting Programs
• #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Virginia
• #5 Top 8 Fastest Accelerated Online Psychology Doctorates (PhDs)
• #5 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)

Tuition + fees

Student body

Median SAT/ACT

Career Outlook for History degree at George Mason University

What do we love about george mason university.

George Mason University began in 1949 as a regional branch of the University of Virginia. Achieving its independent status in 1972, the public university based in Fairfax has since become the largest public research institution in the state of Virginia.

Today, George Mason serves more than 39,000 students. Of those, more than 11,000 are pursuing a graduate level degree.

George Mason is classified among R1: Doctoral Universities, those which are distinguished for their very high level of research activity.

George Mason offers an online PhD in History degree program.

Aspire to careers in government and public policy. George Mason is situated just 20 miles from the nation’s capital.

Don’t enjoy a good long walk. Students note that, at 677 acres, the Fairfax campuses is quite large, with long distances between academic buildings.

University of Houston

• #4 Best Research Universities in Texas 2024
• #4 Best Colleges in Texas 2024
• #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #3 Best Online Master’s in Health Science 2025
• #3 Best Online Master’s in Education
• #4 Best Online Master's Programs in Texas 2024
• #6 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #7 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
• #7 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
• #7 Best Online Master's in Special Education
• #8 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
• #9 Best Online Master's in Nursing MSN
• #19 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
• #22 Best Online Master's in Management
• #20 Most Affordable Master's in Counseling Degree Programs Ranked for 2024

Career Outlook for History degree at University of Houston

What do we love about the university of houston.

The University of Houston was founded in 1927 and, today, serves a massive student population of over 47,000 undergrads and grad students. This makes the Southeast Houston campus the third largest in the state of Texas.

Students can choose from a wide range of degree programs, with more than 275 degrees offered across 16 academic colleges.

Houston is noted for a number of specialized advanced degree programs, including an online doctoral degree in social studies and social education for aspiring history education leaders.

Enjoy college athletics. The school is home to 17 intercollegiate NCAA Division I teams.

Prefer the personal attention of a small school.

Liberty University

• #1 Best Christian Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #3 Best Private Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #7 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2024
• #8 Best Grad Schools in Virginia 2024
• #9 Best Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #19 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
• #21 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Math Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
• #1 Best Online Associate Degree Programs That Can Be Completed in 1 Year
• #1 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #1 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Virginia 2024
• #1 Best Online Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry Degree Programs for 2025
• #1 Best Online Associate in Economics
• #1 Best Online Associate in Philosophy
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Music Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Christian Counseling Degree Programs
• #1 Most Affordable Online PhDs in Psychology Ranked for 2024
• #1 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Economics PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #1 Best Online Associate in Education
• #1 Best Online Associate in Mathematics
• #1 Top 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Nursing (BSN) Programs 2025
• #2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Public Administration Degree Programs for 2025
• #2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies
• #2 Best Online Associate in Biblical Studies
• #2 Accelerated Online Business Administration PhD Programs (Doctorates)
• #2 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Forensic Psychology Programs
• #2 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
• #2 How To Get an Online Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies
• #2 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Psychology Degree Programs 2024
• #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024
• #2 Best Online Bachelor’s of Graphic Arts Degree Programs for 2025
• #2 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #2 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Psychology Programs
• #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Information Technology
• #3 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of English
• #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Virginia
• #3 Best Online Degrees for a Career in Teaching Ranked 2024
• #3 Best Online Master's in Theology
• #3 Best Online Associate in Paralegal Studies
• #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Healthcare Administration Masters
• #3 Top 5 Best Online Criminal Justice Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in the District Of Columbia
• #3 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice PhDs (Doctorates)
• #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
• #4 Best Online Bachelor’s of Homeland Security Degree Programs for 2025
• #4 Top 16 Most Affordable Online Counseling PhDs (Doctorates)
• #4 Best Online Associate in Accounting
• #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Virginia
• #4 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #4 Top 8 Fastest Accelerated Online Psychology Doctorates (PhDs)
• #4 Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
• #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Illinois
• #4 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Information Technology PhD Programs
• #4 Most Affordable Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #4 Best Online Associate in Psychology
• #4 Best Online Bachelor’s of Elementary Education Degree Programs for 2025
• #5 The Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Bachelor's Degrees
• #5 Top 20 Easiest Online Degrees from Accredited Schools in 2024
• #5 Top 10 Fastest Accelerated Online PhD in Criminal Justice (Doctorates)
• #5 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2024
• #5 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Information Technology
• #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Sports Management Degree Programs for 2025
• #6 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2024
• #6 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Accounting Programs
• #6 Best Online Master’s in Biblical Studies
• #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Strategic Communications Degree Programs
• #7 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs)
• #7 Best Online Bachelor's in Law and Legal Studies Degree Programs for 2025
• #7 Best Online Doctorate of Educational Psychology (PhDs) 2024
• #7 Online Colleges That Start Anytime and the Benefits of a Self-Paced Education
• #8 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity 2025
• #8 Best Online Master's in Project Management 2025
• #8 Best Online Bachelor’s of History Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
• #8 Best Online Associate in History Degrees
• #8 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Business Administration Doctorates
• #8 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #9 Best Online Bachelor's in Social Work Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
• #9 Best Online Bachelor’s of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs for 2025
• #9 Most Unusual Doctoral Degrees You Can Earn Online (PhDs)
• #9 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
• #9 Best Online Associate's in Physics
• #9 Best Online Bachelor’s of Education Degree Programs for 2024
• #9 Best Online Master's in Biology
• #9 Best Online Associate in Business Administration
• #10 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
• #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Network Administration Degree Programs for 2024
• #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Programs for 2024
• #11 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #11 Best Online Doctorate in Business Administration Degree Programs
• #11 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Master's of Nursing Programs
• #11 Best Online Bachelor's of Finance Degree Programs for 2024
• #12 Best Online Master's in Sports Management
• #12 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs
• #14 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting 2025
• #14 Best Online Bachelor's of Healthcare Administration Degree Programs for 2024
• #14 Top 18 Most Affordable No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs
• #15 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Master's Degrees
• #16 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice
• #17 Best Online Bachelor’s in Marketing and Advertising Degree Programs for 2024
• #17 Most Affordable Online Criminology Doctorate Programs (PhDs)
• #18 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate of Education (PhDs)
• #18 Most Affordable Online Master's Degree Programs Ranked for Students
• #18 Best Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs
• #18 Best Online Master’s in Finance
• #21 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
• #23 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
• #25 Best Online Bachelor's of Economics Degree Programs for 2024
• #25 Best Online Associate in Christian Ministry
• #1 Fastest Accelerated Online Associate's of Counseling Degree Programs
• #2 Fastest Accelerated Online PhDs in Education Degree Programs 2024
• #5 20 Fastest Online Bachelor's of Business Degree Programs Ranked 2024
• #5 Top 20 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's in Counseling
• #6 10 Best Accelerated Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #6 How to Earn Your Master's Degree Without Your Bachelor's Degree
• #6 Best College Majors that Offer Accelerated Degree Programs
• #8 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Counseling Degree Programs 2024
• #14 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024

What do we love about Liberty University?

Liberty University is one of the largest Christian universities in the world as well as one of the largest private non-profit universities in the U.S. Much of this size is based on its online enrollment.

Liberty University enrolls roughly 15,000 residential students across its 17 colleges, and an additional 80,000 through its extensive online course and degree offerings.

Liberty University is noted for the sheer volume of advanced degrees and online degrees earned by its student body. With more than 47,000 students pursuing advanced degrees, Liberty offers an extremely wide range of online doctoral programs, including its online PhD in history program.

Wish to attend the world’s largest seminary—Liberty University’s Rawlings School of Divinity.

Students who do not identify with Evangelical Christianity.

Regent University

• #2 Best Online Bachelor’s of Counseling Degree Programs for 2025
• #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Virginia
• #2 Best Online Associate in Christian Ministry
• #2 Best Online Bachelor's of Theology Degree Programs in 2025
• #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in the District Of Columbia
• #2 Best Online Doctorate of Educational Psychology (PhDs) 2024
• #3 How To Get an Online Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies
• #3 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #3 Best Online Associate in History Degrees
• #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Virginia 2024
• #3 Best Online Bachelor’s of Graphic Arts Degree Programs for 2025
• #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Music Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #4 Best Online Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry Degree Programs for 2025
• #5 Best Online Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies
• #5 Top 16 Most Affordable Online Counseling PhDs (Doctorates)
• #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Virginia
• #5 Best Online Associate in Psychology
• #6 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Information Technology
• #7 Best Online Bachelor’s of Digital Media for 2025
• #7 Best Online Master's in Organizational Psychology
• #7 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #7 Best Online Master's in Theology
• #7 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Psychology Programs
• #8 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship Ranked for Students in 2024
• #8 Fastest Online Associate Degrees Ranked for 2024
• #8 Most Affordable Online PhDs in Psychology Ranked for 2024
• #8 Best Online Master’s in Human Services
• #9 Best Online Bachelor's in Sports Management Degree Programs for 2025
• #9 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs)
• #9 Top 20 Easiest Online Degrees from Accredited Schools in 2024
• #9 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2024
• #9 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #10 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity 2025
• #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Law and Legal Studies Degree Programs for 2025
• #10 Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
• #10 Best Online Associate in General Studies
• #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs
• #10 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs
• #12 Best Online Bachelor’s of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs for 2025
• #13 Best Online Bachelor’s of History Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
• #14 Best Online Bachelor's of Economics Degree Programs for 2024
• #14 Best Online Master’s in Biblical Studies
• #15 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #16 Most Affordable Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #17 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2024
• #19 Best Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology Degree Programs for 2024
• #21 Best Online Master’s in Emergency Management
• #24 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
• #8 Top 20 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's in Counseling
• #10 20 Fastest Accelerated Online MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #13 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Counseling Degree Programs 2024

What do we love about Regent University?

Regent University is a private Christian University that provides an array of both undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Founded in 1977 by Southern Baptist Minister Pat Robertson, Regent University offers a wide range of both online and on-campus degree programs.

Regent University serves more than 10,000 students today, with many pursuing online degrees at the master’s and doctoral degree levels.

Regent University is also noteworthy for its extremely diverse range of online PhD programs, including a history PhD rooted in Regent’s tradition of faith.

Are pursuing advanced degrees online. More than 60% of Regent’s students are in post-graduate programs.

Prefer a secular educational experience.

Other Options for Aspiring History PhDs

Students considering an online doctoral in history should also check out the best on-campus options to compare features like cost, curriculum, acceptance rate, and more.

University of California, Berkeley

• #2 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #2 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #2 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
• #2 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online
• #2 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
• #5 Best Universities in the World 2024
• #1 Best Grad Schools California 2025
• #1 Best Colleges in California 2024
• #1 Best Public Colleges California 2024
• #1 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2024
• #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #2 Best Research Universities in California 2024
• #2 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
• #3 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
• #4 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
• #4 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
• #4 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
• #4 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
• #5 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
• #5 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
• #6 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
• #7 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
• #7 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
• #7 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
• #7 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
• #8 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
• #8 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
• #8 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
• #9 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
• #9 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
• #1 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #1 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Computer Science Doctorates (PhDs)
• #2 Top 5 Best Online English PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #2 Most Affordable Online Computer Science PhDs (Doctorates) 2024
• #2 Top 8 Best Online Public Health PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #3 Top 6 Best Online Clinical Nutrition PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #4 Guide to Free Online Courses for MBA Students in 2024
• #2 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #3 Best Schools in the World for Earning an MBA Degree Ranked for 2024

Career Outlook for History degree at University of California, Berkeley

University of California, Berkeley’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Earth Sciences
• Computer Science
• Mathematics
• Anthropology
• Engineering
• Communications

Most Influential Alumni

• Daniel Kahneman
• John Kenneth Galbraith
• Timothy Leary
• Shing-Tung Yau
• Ken Thompson
• Niklaus Wirth
• Douglas Engelbart
• Theodosius Dobzhansky
• Betty Friedan
• George Dantzig
• Octavio Paz
• Gary Snyder

University of Michigan

• #4 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online
• #9 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #9 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #11 Best Universities in the World 2024
• #22 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
• #1 Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2024
• #1 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2024
• #1 Best Colleges in Michigan 2024
• #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2024
• #1 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024
• #2 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
• #4 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
• #5 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
• #6 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
• #6 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
• #8 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
• #8 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
• #9 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
• #10 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
• #11 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
• #11 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
• #11 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
• #11 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
• #12 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
• #12 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
• #13 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
• #13 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
• #13 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
• #13 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
• #14 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
• #1 Best Online Master’s in Health Science 2025
• #1 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan
• #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Michigan 2025
• #1 Best Online MBA Degree Programs No GRE Required Ranked for 2024
• #1 Top 8 Best Online Public Health PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #1 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2024
• #2 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #2 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
• #2 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #3 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #3 Top 5 Best Online English PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #4 Top 6 Best Online Clinical Nutrition PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #6 Guide to Free Online Courses for MBA Students in 2024
• #1 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024
• #7 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for History degree at University of Michigan

University of Michigan’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Social Work
• Claude Shannon
• Arthur Miller
• Alvin Plantinga
• Edgar F. Codd
• Hans-Hermann Hoppe
• Stephen Smale
• Urie Bronfenbrenner
• John Henry Holland
• Amos Tversky
• Marshall Sahlins

New York University

• #13 Best Universities in the World 2024
• #23 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
• #2 Best Colleges in New York 2024
• #2 Best Research Universities in New York 2024
• #2 Best Grad Schools in New York 2024
• #2 Best Private Colleges in New York 2024
• #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #3 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
• #3 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
• #7 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
• #7 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
• #8 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
• #8 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
• #12 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
• #12 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
• #12 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
• #14 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
• #15 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
• #15 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
• #15 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
• #15 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
• #15 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
• #18 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
• #18 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
• #23 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
• #23 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
• #1 20 Best Online Master's of Speech Pathology Degree Programs
• #1 Best Online Master's Programs in New York 2024
• #1 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #1 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
• #1 Top 5 Best Online English PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #2 Best Online Master's in Management
• #2 Top 6 Best Online Clinical Nutrition PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #3 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #3 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2024
• #1 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Counseling Degree Programs 2024
• #1 Fastest Accelerated Online PhDs in Education Degree Programs 2024
• #5 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students
• #10 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

New York University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Erich Fromm
• Robert Mueller
• Martha Nussbaum
• John Archibald Wheeler
• Glenn Greenwald
• Howard Zinn
• Eric Kandel
• Lewis Mumford
• Alvin Toffler
• Louis Nirenberg

University of California, Los Angeles

• #7 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges
• #13 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
• #14 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #14 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #17 Best Universities in the World 2024
• #2 Best Public Colleges California 2024
• #2 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2024
• #3 Best Grad Schools California 2025
• #3 Best Colleges in California 2024
• #3 Best Research Universities in California 2024
• #6 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
• #8 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
• #9 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
• #10 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
• #11 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
• #12 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
• #12 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
• #12 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
• #13 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
• #14 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
• #14 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
• #14 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
• #14 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
• #14 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
• #15 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
• #15 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
• #16 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
• #17 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
• #18 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
• #21 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
• #4 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #4 Top 5 Best Online English PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #4 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #12 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for History degree at University of California, Los Angeles

University of California, Los Angeles’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Hilary Putnam
• Elinor Ostrom
• Judea Pearl
• Glenn T. Seaborg
• Barry Boehm
• Stanley Cavell
• William F. Sharpe
• John Ehrlichman
• Stephen Krashen
• Edward O. Thorp
• Stephen Kosslyn

University of Florida

• #9 Online Colleges with the Most Generous Financial Aid in 2024
• #16 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024
• #20 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2025
• #1 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2024
• #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2024
• #1 Best Colleges in Florida 2024
• #1 Best Research Universities in Florida 2024
• #1 Best Public Colleges in Florida 2024
• #1 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
• #11 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
• #14 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
• #15 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
• #16 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
• #21 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
• #21 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
• #22 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
• #23 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
• #23 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
• #25 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Anthropology 2025
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs
• #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Florida 2024
• #1 Best Online Colleges in Florida 2024
• #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Biology 2025
• #2 Best Online Bachelor’s of Digital Media for 2025
• #2 Best Online MBA Programs in Florida
• #3 10 Best Online Master's of Music Education Degree Programs
• #4 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate of Education (PhDs)
• #9 Top 20 Best Online MBA Programs that Can Be Completed in One Year 2024
• #14 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs
• #15 Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
• #19 Top 20 Easiest Online Degrees from Accredited Schools in 2024
• #4 Most Affordable Master's in Counseling Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #15 Best Schools in the World for Earning an MBA Degree Ranked for 2024

Career Outlook for History degree at University of Florida

University of Florida’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Criminal Justice
• J. Barkley Rosser
• Marshall Warren Nirenberg
• Paul Tibbets
• Robert Costanza
• Michael Connelly
• Robert H. Grubbs
• Carl Hiaasen
• Gilbert Stork
• Aseem Shukla
• Neil Druckmann
• Norman Thagard

Find out what your options are with a look at our Guide to Online Degrees .

Recommended pages

• Undergraduate open days
• Postgraduate open days
• Accommodation
• Information for teachers
• Maps and directions
• Sport and fitness

History PhD/ MA by Research (On-Campus or by Distance Learning)

Annual tuition fee 2024 entry: UK: £4,786 full-time, £2,393 part-time International: £21,840 full-time; £10,920 part-time (distance learning only) More detail .

• Visit an Open Day
• Request a prospectus
• Course details
• Entry Requirements
• Employability

As a postgraduate researcher in the Department of History you'll work alongside academic staff whose research is at the forefront of current historical scholarship.

The Department of History is ranked eighth in the country based on Grade Point Average in the Research Excellence Framework 2021, according to the Times Higher Education. The Department is unrivalled in the geographical and chronological breadth of its research. 

Free Webinar - Masters programmes in History and Cultures - 7 December 2023, 12pm-1pm (GMT)

We are hosting an online webinar specifically for prospective students interested in our Masters programmes in the School of History and Cultures. The event will be taking place via Zoom on Thursday 7 December, from 12pm – 1pm (GMT). It will cover our Masters programmes in African Studies and Anthropology; Classics, Ancient History and Archaeology; Heritage Studies; and History.

Book your place

Funding available for 2021 entry

The John Pagett Scholarship offers £4,000 to fund historical, archaeological or natural history postgraduate research focusing Shropshire or the immediate region. Deadline 30 June 2021.

Find out more and apply now

AHRC funding for PhD students

The University of Birmingham is part of the Midlands4Cities Doctoral Training Partnership (M4C), offering Arts and Humanities Research Council PhD studentships for campus-based programmes. These include a number of Collaborative Doctoral Award opportunities. Each studentship includes research fees, a substantial maintenance grant and additional research training support. Applications are open until 12:00 (noon), 13 January 2021.

Find out more

Scholarships for 2024 entry

The University of Birmingham is proud to offer a range of scholarships for our postgraduate programmes. With a scholarship pot worth over £2 million, we are committed to alleviating financial barriers to support you in taking your next steps.

Each scholarship has its own specific deadlines and eligibility criteria. Please familiarise yourself with the information on individual scholarship webpages prior to submitting an application.

Explore our scholarships

We offer two postgraduate research-only programmes, whether you are looking to complete your academic studies with a PhD or pursue your research at Masters level. Find out more about what to expect from a PhD and MA by Research .

At Birmingham, Postgraduate Taught and Postgraduate Research students also have the opportunity to learn graduate academic languages free of charge, to support your studies.

• Graduate School Language Skills

The library facilities at Birmingham have been essential to my work, as has the ongoing and thoughtful support I’ve received from my supervisors. To help the transition back to academia, there are a number of courses and seminars available that have enabled me to develop my editing, writing and presenting skills, which are important to my day-to-day work. Howard

Why study this course?

• Breadth of expertise : From medieval Iran to the modern United States, our staff provide expertise across British, European and world history from around 500 to the present day. Our core strengths include medieval history, cultural and social history, politics, economics, religion, war studies, the history of the Midlands, the history of sexuality and emotion, and the history of the environment.
• Stimulating environment : We offer exciting opportunities to participate in the broader research culture of the Department of History. This includes seminars and workshops run by postgraduate research students and those organised by members of staff, which generate a lively inter- and multi-disciplinary research culture, through delivery of papers and broadening intellectual horizons.
• Research opportunities :There are a number of opportunities for collaboration across the University, particularly in the fields of Byzantine, Latin American, and Art History, as well as Philosophy, Politics and Anthropology. The extensive holdings of the University’s library, and ready access to other regional archives and libraries, offer abundant raw material for research.
• Training and support : Extensive support in academic writing, research skills, and career development is available to our research students through the College of Arts & Law Graduate School as well as our library and careers network teams .
• Develop research leadership : Our postgraduates run international and interdisciplinary workshops, seminar series, and conferences and are supported to develop leadership in their fields through publications and public engagement.

The postgraduate experience

The College of Arts and Law offers excellent support to its postgraduates, from libraries and research spaces, to careers support and funding opportunities. Learn more about your postgraduate experience .

We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2024 entry are as follows:

• UK: £4,786 full-time; £2,393 part-time *
• International: £21,840 full-time; £10,920 part-time (distance learning only)

The same fees apply to both campus-based and distance learning study. The distance learning programme also includes one fully-funded visit to campus in the first year of study.

The above fees quoted are for one year only; for those studying over two or more years, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.

* For UK postgraduate research students the University fee level is set at Research Council rates and as such is subject to change. The final fee will be announced by Research Councils UK in spring 2024.

Eligibility for UK or international fees can be verified with Admissions. Learn more about fees for international students .

Paying your fees

Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding .

How To Apply

Application deadlines.

Postgraduate research can start at any time during the year, but it is important to allow time for us to review your application and communicate a decision. If you wish to start in September 2024, we would recommend that you aim to submit your application and supporting documents by 1 June 2024.

If the programme has a Distance learning option then students will usually attend a residential visit in September or January, and those students wishing to attend the September residential are also encouraged to apply by 1 June 2024. The visit will take place at the end of September/beginning of October and you will receive further details once you have accepted your offer.

Six steps to apply for our Postgraduate Research courses

Do you have an idea for an interesting research project? You can follow our six easy steps to apply to study for our postgraduate research courses . These include guidance on identifying funding opportunities and writing your research proposal .

Please also see our additional guidance for  applicants to the PhD Distance Learning study mode .

Please note: While our PhD programmes are normally studied in three years full-time or six years part-time, and Masters-level research programmes one year full-time or two years part-time, many programmes have a longer length listed in course or funding applications. This is because the course length is defined as the maximum period of registration, which includes a period of supervised study plus a thesis awaited period. The maximum period of registration for a full-time PhD is four years (three years supervision plus one year thesis awaited). For a full-time Masters-level research programme, it is two years (one year supervision plus one year thesis awaited). For part-time programmes, the periods are double the full-time equivalent.

• How to apply

To apply for a postgraduate research programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online. We have put together some helpful information on the research programme application process and supporting documents on our how to apply page . Please read this information carefully before completing your application.

Our Standard Requirements

Our requirements for postgraduate research are dependent on the type of programme you are applying for:

• For MRes and MA by Research programmes, entry to our programmes usually requires a good (normally a 2:1 or above) Honours degree, or an equivalent qualification if you were educated outside the UK, usually in a relevant area.
• Applicants for a PhD will also need to hold a Masters qualification at Merit level or above (or its international equivalent), usually in a relevant area.

Any academic and professional qualifications or relevant professional experience you may have are normally taken into account, and in some cases, form an integral part of the entrance requirements.

If you are applying for distance learning research programmes, you will also be required to demonstrate that you have the time, commitment, facilities and experience to study by distance learning.

If your qualifications are non-standard or different from the entry requirements stated here, please contact the admissions tutor.

International students

IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band is equivalent to:

• TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 21 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 59 in all four skills
• Cambridge English (exams taken from 2015): Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component

Learn more about international entry requirements

International Requirements

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a GPA of 14/20 from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of the Licenciado or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Argentinian university, with a promedio of at least 7.5, may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Applicants for PhD degrees will normally have a Maestria or equivalent

Applicants who hold a Masters degree will be considered for admission to PhD study.

Holders of a good four-year Diplomstudium/Magister or a Masters degree from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 2.5 will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students with a good 5-year Specialist Diploma or 4-year Bachelor degree from a recognised higher education institution in Azerbaijan, with a minimum GPA of 4/5 or 80% will be considered for entry to postgraduate taught programmes at the University of Birmingham.

For postgraduate research programmes applicants should have a good 5-year Specialist Diploma (completed after 1991), with a minimum grade point average of 4/5 or 80%, from a recognised higher education institution or a Masters or “Magistr Diplomu” or “Kandidat Nauk” from a recognised higher education institution in Azerbaijan.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 75% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with a CGPA of 3.0-3.3/4.0 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Students who hold a Masters degree from the University of Botswana with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 (70%/B/'very good') will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Please note 4-year bachelor degrees from the University of Botswana are considered equivalent to a Diploma of Higher Education. 5-year bachelor degrees from the University of Botswana are considered equivalent to a British Bachelor (Ordinary) degree.

Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

A Licenciatura or Bacharelado degree from a recognised Brazilian university:

• A grade of 7.5/10 for entry to programmes with a 2:1 requirement
• A grade of 6.5/10for entry to programmes with a 2:2 requirement

Holders of a good Bachelors degree with honours (4 to 6 years) from a recognised university with a upper second class grade or higher will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.  Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good post-2001 Masters degree from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students with a minimum average of 14 out of 20 (or 70%) on a 4-year Licence, Bachelor degree or Diplôme d'Etudes Superieures de Commerce (DESC) or Diplôme d'Ingénieur or a Maîtrise will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Holders of a bachelor degree with honours from a recognised Canadian university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. A GPA of 3.0/4, 7.0/9 or 75% is usually equivalent to a UK 2.1.

Holders of the Licenciado or equivalent Professional Title from a recognised Chilean university will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Applicants for PhD study will preferably hold a Magister degree or equivalent.

Students with a bachelor’s degree (4 years minimum) may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. However please note that we will only consider students who meet the entry guidance below.  Please note: for the subject areas below we use the Shanghai Ranking 2022 (full table)  ,  Shanghai Ranking 2023 (full table) , and Shanghai Ranking of Chinese Art Universities 2023 .

需要具备学士学位（4年制）的申请人可申请研究生课程。请根据所申请的课程查看相应的入学要求。 请注意，中国院校名单参考 软科中国大学排名2022（总榜） ，  软科中国大学排名2023（总榜） ，以及 软科中国艺术类高校名单2023 。  

Business School    - MSc programmes (excluding MBA)  

商学院硕士课程（MBA除外）入学要求

School of Computer Science – all MSc programmes 计算机学院硕士课程入学要求

College of Social Sciences – courses listed below 社会科学 学院部分硕士课程入学要求 MA Education  (including all pathways) MSc TESOL Education MSc Public Management MA Global Public Policy MA Social Policy MA Sociology Department of Political Science and International Studies  全部硕士课程 International Development Department  全部硕士课程

  All other programmes (including MBA)   所有其他 硕士课程（包括 MBA）入学要求

Please note:

• Borderline cases: We may consider students with lower average score (within 5%) on a case-by-case basis if you have a relevant degree and very excellent grades in relevant subjects and/or relevant work experience. 如申请人均分低于相应录取要求（5%以内），但具有出色学术背景，优异的专业成绩，以及（或）相关的工作经验，部分课程将有可能单独酌情考虑。
• Please contact the China Recruitment Team for any questions on the above entry requirements. 如果您对录取要求有疑问，请联系伯明翰大学中国办公室   [email protected]

Holders of the Licenciado/Professional Title from a recognised Colombian university will be considered for our Postgraduate Diploma and Masters degrees. Applicants for PhD degrees will normally have a Maestria or equivalent.

Holders of a good bachelor degree with honours (4 to 6 years) from a recognised university with a upper second class grade or higher will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.  Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Bacclaureus (Bachelors) from a recognised Croatian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 4.0 out of 5.0, vrlo dobar ‘very good’, or a Masters degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a Bachelors degree(from the University of the West Indies or the University of Technology) may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. A Class II Upper Division degree is usually equivalent to a UK 2.1. For further details on particular institutions please refer to the list below.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Masters degree or Mphil from the University of the West Indies.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree from a recognised institution with a minimum overall grade of 6.5 out of 10, or a GPA of 3 out of 4, and will usually be required to have completed a good Masters degree to be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Bakalár from a recognised Czech Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 1.5, B, velmi dobre ‘very good’ (post-2004) or 2, velmi dobre ‘good’ (pre-2004), or a good post-2002 Magistr (Masters), will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree from a recognised institution with a minimum overall grade of 7-10 out of 12 (or 8 out of 13) or higher for 2:1 equivalence and will usually be required to have completed a good Masters/ Magisterkonfereus/Magister Artium degree to be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of the Licenciado or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Ecuadorian university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Grades of 70% or higher can be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Magister/Masterado or equivalent qualification, but holders of the Licenciado with excellent grades can be considered.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 75% from a recognised institution. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Bakalaurusekraad from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 4/5 or B, or a good one- or two-year Magistrikraad from a recognised university, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree with very good grades (grade B, 3.5/4 GPA or 85%) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. 

Holders of a good Kandidaatti / Kandidat (old system), a professional title such as Ekonomi, Diplomi-insinööri, Arkkitehti, Lisensiaatti (in Medicine, Dentistry and Vetinary Medicine), or a Maisteri / Magister (new system), Lisensiaatti / Licenciat, Oikeustieteen Kandidaatti / Juris Kandidat (new system) or Proviisori / Provisor from a recognised Finnish Higher Education institution, with a minimum overall grade of 2/3 or 4/5, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters/Maîtrise with a minimum overall grade of 13 out of 20, or a Magistère / Diplôme d'Etudes Approfondies / Diplôme d'Etudes Supérieures Specialisées / Mastère Specialis, from a recognised French university or Grande École to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a Magister Artium, a Diplom or an Erstes Staatsexamen from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 2.5, or a good two-year Lizentiat / Aufbaustudium / Zweites Staatsexamen or a Masters degree from a recognised university, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good four-year Ptychio (Bachelor degree) with a minimum overall grade of 6.5 out of 10, from a recognised Greek university (AEI), and will usually be required to have completed a good Metaptychiako Diploma Eidikefsis (Masters degree) from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

4-year Licenciado is deemed equivalent to a UK bachelors degree. A score of 75 or higher from Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala (USAC) can be considered comparable to a UK 2.1, 60 is comparable to a UK 2.2.  Private universities have a higher pass mark, so 80 or higher should be considered comparable to a UK 2.1, 70 is comparable to a UK 2.2

The Hong Kong Bachelor degree is considered comparable to British Bachelor degree standard. Students with bachelor degrees awarded by universities in Hong Kong may be considered for entry to one of our postgraduate degree programmes.

Students with Masters degrees may be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a good Alapfokozat / Alapképzés or Egyetemi Oklevel from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 3.5, or a good Mesterfokozat (Masters degree) or Egyetemi Doktor (university doctorate), will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with a 60% or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of the 4 year Sarjana (S1) from a recognised Indonesian institution will be considered for postgraduate study. Entry requirements vary with a minimum requirement of a GPA of 2.8.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a score of 14/20 or 70% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution, with 100 out of 110 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Students who hold the Maitrise, Diplome d'Etude Approfondies, Diplome d'Etude Superieures or Diplome d'Etude Superieures Specialisees will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees (14-15/20 or Bien from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 12-13/20 or Assez Bien is considered comparable to a UK 2.2).

Students with a Bachelor degree from a recognised university in Japan will be considered for entry to a postgraduate Masters degree provided they achieve a sufficiently high overall score in their first (Bachelor) degree. A GPA of 3.0/4.0 or a B average from a good Japanese university is usually considered equivalent to a UK 2:1.

Students with a Masters degree from a recognised university in Japan will be considered for PhD study. A high overall grade will be necessary to be considered.

Students who have completed their Specialist Diploma Мамаң дипломы/Диплом специалиста) or "Magistr" (Магистр дипломы/Диплом магистра) degree (completed after 1991) from a recognised higher education institution, with a minimum GPA of 2.67/4.00 for courses requiring a UK lower second and 3.00/4.00 for courses requiring a UK upper second class degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate Masters degrees and, occasionally, directly for PhD degrees.  Holders of a Bachelor "Bakalavr" degree (Бакалавр дипломы/Диплом бакалавра) from a recognised higher education institution, with a minimum GPA of  2.67/4.00 for courses requiring a UK lower second and 3.00/4.00 for courses requiring a UK upper second class degree, may also be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/50

Holders of a good Postgraduate Diploma (professional programme) from a recognised university or institution of Higher Education, with a minimum overall grade of 7.5 out of 10, or a post-2000 Magistrs, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a score of 16/20 or 80% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Libya will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of a Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved score of 70% for 2:1 equivalency or 65% for 2:2 equivalency. Alternatively students will require a minimum of 3.0/4.0 or BB to be considered.

Holders of a good pre-2001 Magistras from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 8 out of 10, or a good post-2001 Magistras, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes

Holders of a good Bachelors degree from a recognised Luxembourgish Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 16 out of 20, or a Diplôme d'Études Supérieures Spécialisées (comparable to a UK PGDip) or Masters degree from a recognised Luxembourgish Higher Education institution will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees (70-74% or A or Marginal Distinction from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 60-69% or B or Bare Distinction/Credit is considered comparable to a UK 2.2).

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised Malaysian institution (usually achieved with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average minimum of 3.0) will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a good Bachelors degree from the University of Malta with a minimum grade of 2:1 (Hons), and/or a Masters degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree (Honours) from a recognised institution (including the University of Mauritius) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.  Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2:1).

Students who hold the Licenciado/Professional Titulo from a recognised Mexican university with a promedio of at least 8 will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Students who have completed a Maestria from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree, licence or Maîtrise and a Masters degree, with a score of 14/20 or 70% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Students with a good four year honours degree from a recognised university will be considered for postgraduate study at the University of Birmingham. PhD applications will be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with 60-74% or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Doctoraal from a recognised Dutch university with a minimum overall grade of 7 out of 10, and/or a good Masters degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree (minimum 4 years and/or level 400) from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.  Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree from a recognised institution with a minimum GPA of B/Very Good or 1.6-2.5 for a 2.1 equivalency, and will usually be required to have completed a good Masters, Mastergrad, Magister. Artium, Sivilingeniør, Candidatus realium or Candidatus philologiae degree to be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with a CGPA of 3.0/4 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in the Palestinian Territories will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3/4 or 80% for 2:1 equivalency or a GPA of 2.5/4 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.    

Holders of the Título de Licenciado /Título de (4-6 years) or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Paraguayan university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Grades of 4/5 or higher can be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent.  The Título Intermedio is a 2-3 year degree and is equivalent to a HNC, it is not suitable for postgraduate entry but holders of this award could be considered for second year undergraduate entry or pre-Masters.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Título de Maestría / Magister or equivalent qualification, but holders of the Título/Grado de Licenciado/a with excellent grades can be considered.

Holders of the Bachiller, Licenciado, or Título Profesional with at least 13/20 may be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Título de Maestría or equivalent qualification.

Holders of a good pre-2001 Magister from a recognised Polish university with a minimum overall grade of 4 out of 5, dobry ‘good’, and/or a good Swiadectwo Ukonczenia Studiów Podyplomowych (Certificate of Postgraduate Study) or post-2001 Magister from a recognised Polish university with a minimum overall grade of 4.5/4+ out of 5, dobry plus 'better than good', will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Licenciado from a recognised university, or a Diploma de Estudos Superiores Especializados (DESE) from a recognised Polytechnic Institution, with a minimum overall grade of 16 out of 20, and/or a good Mestrado / Mestre (Masters) from a recognised university, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree from a recognised Romanian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 8 out of 10, and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree/Diploma de Master/Diploma de Studii Academice Postuniversitare (Postgraduate Diploma - Academic Studies) or Diploma de Studii Postuniversitare de Specializare (Postgraduate Diploma - Specialised Studies) to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Диплом Специалиста (Specialist Diploma) or Диплом Магистра (Magistr) degree from recognised universities in Russia (minimum GPA of 4.0) will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes/PhD study.

Students who hold a 4-year Bachelor degree with at least 16/20 or 70% will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.   

Students who hold a Maitrise, Diplome d'Etude Approfondies,Diplome d'Etude Superieures or Diplome d'Etude Superieures Specialisees will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. A score of 14-15/20 or Bien from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 12-13/20 or Assez Bien is considered comparable to a UK 2.2

Students who hold a Bachelor (Honours) degree from a recognised institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 (or a score of 60-69% or B+) from a well ranked institution will be considered for most our Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees with a 2:1 requirement.

Students holding a good Bachelors Honours degree will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a good three-year Bakalár or pre-2002 Magister from a recognised Slovakian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 1.5, B, Vel’mi dobrý ‘very good’, and/or a good Inžinier or a post-2002 Magister from a recognised Slovakian Higher Education institution will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Diploma o pridobljeni univerzitetni izobrazbi (Bachelors degree), Diplomant (Professionally oriented first degree), Univerzitetni diplomant (Academically oriented first degree) or Visoko Obrazovanja (until 1999) from a recognised Slovenian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 8.0 out of 10, and/or a good Diploma specializacija (Postgraduate Diploma) or Magister (Masters) will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor Honours degree (also known as Baccalaureus Honores / Baccalaureus Cum Honoribus) from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most Masters programmes will require a second class upper (70%) or a distinction (75%).

Holders of a Masters degree will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a Bachelor degree from a recognised South Korean institution (usually with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average 3.0/4.0 or 3.2/4.5) will be considered for Masters programmes.

Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with 7 out of 10 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with 60-74% or a CGPA 3.30/4.0 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Kandidatexamen (Bachelors degree) or Yrkesexamen (Professional Bachelors degree) from a recognised Swedish Higher Education institution with the majority of subjects with a grade of VG (Val godkänd), and/or a good Magisterexamen (Masters degree), International Masters degree or Licentiatexamen (comparable to a UK Mphil), will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good "PostGraduate Certificate" or "PostGraduate Diploma" or a Masters degree from a recognised Swiss higher education institution (with a minimum GPA of 5/6 or 8/10 or 2/5 (gut-bien-bene/good) for a 2.1 equivalence) may be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a GPA of 3.0/4.0, 3.5/5 or 75% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Bachelor degree (from 75% to 85% depending upon the university in Taiwan) from a recognised institution will be considered for postgraduate Masters study. Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.  Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for entry to our postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Masters degree or Mphil from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students with a Bachelors degree from the following universities may be considered for entry to postgraduate programmes:

• Ateneo de Manila University - Quezon City
• De La Salle University - Manila
• University of Santo Tomas
• University of the Philippines - Diliman

Students from all other institutions with a Bachelors and a Masters degree or relevant work experience may be considered for postgraduate programmes.

Grading Schemes

1-5 where 1 is the highest 2.1 = 1.75 2.2 = 2.25 

Out of 4.0 where 4 is the highest 2.1 = 3.0 2.2 = 2.5

Letter grades and percentages 2.1 = B / 3.00 / 83% 2.2 = C+ / 2.5 / 77%

Holders of a postdoctoral qualification from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.  Students may be considered for PhD study if they have a Masters from one of the above listed universities.

Holders of a Lisans Diplomasi with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0/4.0 from a recognised university will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a Yuksek Diplomasi from a recognised university will be considered for PhD study.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most Masters programmes will require a second class upper (2.1) or GPA of 3.5/5.0

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree / Диплом бакалавра (Dyplom Bakalavra), Диплом спеціаліста (Specialist Diploma) or a Dyplom Magistra from a recognised Ukrainian higher education institution with a minimum GPA of 4.0/5.0, 3.5/4, 8/12 or 80% or higher for 2:1 equivalence and will usually be required to have completed a good Masters degree to be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

The University will consider students who hold an Honours degree from a recognised institution in the USA with a GPA of:

• 2.8 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) for entry to programmes with a 2:2 requirement 
• 3.2 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) for entry to programmes with a 2:1 requirement 

Please note that some subjects which are studied at postgraduate level in the USA, eg. Medicine and Law, are traditionally studied at undergraduate level in the UK.

Holders of the Magistr Diplomi (Master's degree) or Diplomi (Specialist Diploma), awarded by prestigious universities, who have attained high grades in their studies will be considered for postgraduate study.  Holders of the Fanlari Nomzodi (Candidate of Science), where appropriate, will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of the Licenciatura/Título or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Venezuelan university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Scales of 1-5, 1-10 and 1-20 are used, an overall score of 70% or equivalent can be considered equivalent to a UK 2.1.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Maestria or equivalent qualification

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised Vietnamese institution (usually achieved with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average minimum GPA of 7.0 and above) will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.  Holders of a Masters degree (thac si) will be considered for entry to PhD programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree with a minimum GPA of 3.5/5.0 or a mark of 2.0/2.5 (A) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.   

Students who hold a good Bachelor Honours degree will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. 

Research in the Department of History has unique chronological and geographical depth, covering a wide range of British, European and world history from the early medieval period to the present, so we are able to provide expert supervision across a variety of topics.

Please contact a staff member working in your area of interest in the first instance. A summary of our key research areas, and staff working within those, can be found below.

• Early modern history
• Environmental history
• Gender, sexuality and race
• Global history
• Medieval history
• Modern British history
• Modern European history
• Religious history
• War and conflict

The University of Birmingham is the top choice for the UK's major employers searching for graduate recruits, according to The Graduate Market 2024 report .

Your degree will provide excellent preparation for your future career, but this can also be enhanced by a range of employability support services offered by the University and the College of Arts and Law.

The University's Careers Network  provides expert guidance and activities especially for postgraduates, which will help you achieve your career goals. The College of Arts and Law also has a dedicated  careers and employability team  who offer tailored advice and a programme of College-specific careers events.

You will be encouraged to make the most of your postgraduate experience and will have the opportunity to:

• Receive one-to-one careers advice, including guidance on your job applications, writing your CV and improving your interview technique, whether you are looking for a career inside or outside of academia
• Meet employers face-to-face at on-campus recruitment fairs and employer presentations
• Attend an annual programme of careers fairs, skills workshops and conferences, including bespoke events for postgraduates in the College of Arts and Law
• Take part in a range of activities to demonstrate your knowledge and skills to potential employers and enhance your CV

What’s more, you will be able to access our full range of careers support for up to 2 years after graduation.

Postgraduate employability: History

Our History postgraduates develop a broad range of transferable skills that are highly valued by a range of employers. These skills include: familiarity with research methods; the ability to manage large quantities of information from diverse sources; the ability to organise information in a logical and coherent manner; the expertise to write clearly and concisely and to tight deadlines; critical and analytical ability; the capacity for argument, debate and speculation; and the ability to base conclusions on statistical research.

Some of our History postgraduates go on to use their studies directly, for example in heritage or in museums. Others use their transferable skills in a range of occupations including finance, marketing, teaching and publishing. Employers that graduates have gone on to work for include Royal Air Force, Ministry of Defence, University of Birmingham, Royal Air Force Museum and University of Oxford.

• Online chat events
• Ask our students

Doctor of Philosophy in History (Ph.D.)

Learn More About The Program

Request information

By submitting contact information through this form, I agree that Liberty University and its affiliates may call and/or text me about its offerings by any phone number I have provided and may provide in the future, including any wireless number, using automated technology.

Message and data rates may apply. For additional information, text HELP to 49595 or 49596. You may opt-out at any time by sending STOP to 49595 or 49596. Visit for Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy .

Find your degree of interest from one of our many programs of study offered 100% online.

Liberty University's online programs offer you the flexibility to study at your own pace, from your home or office, while retaining a level of structure that will help you stay on track toward achieving your educational goals. You'll receive a quality education - that is both flexible and affordable - from an accredited institution.

Doctorate (Ph.D.) in History

Become an advanced historian with our ph.d. in history.

Are you interested in furthering your training, knowledge, and skillset so that you can pursue careers in education, research, politics, archaeology, or management of national landmarks or museums? Whatever your history-related career goals are, Liberty University’s Ph.D. in History provides the training and experience you’ll need to excel in academia or other career fields that require an extensive understanding of the past.

When you complete your doctorate in history, you’ll be prepared for a multitude of career opportunities. Most of our students join the world of academia as a professor, professional researcher, or academic publisher or editor. However, you can also pursue positions as a museum curator, international development specialist, author, archaeologist, or federal government employee.

So what are you waiting for? Academics and many other career fields need people like you who are knowledgeable about the undercurrents, culture, and societal standards surrounding historical events. We’re going to prepare you to excel in whatever career field you choose when you pursue our doctorate in history.

What Will You Learn in Your Ph.D. in History Program?

• How to apply a Christian worldview to the study of history
• How to conduct original research that is based upon knowledge of the literature of the discipline
• How to evaluate historiographic positions, like scholarly literature and interpretations, at the doctoral level
• How to apply historical methodology to professional settings

Career Opportunities for Ph.D. in History Graduates

• Academic publisher
• Archaeologist
• Federal government employee
• Higher education administrator
• International development specialist
• Museum curator
• Professional researcher

Benefits of Earning Your Online Ph.D. in History

As a leader in distance education since 1985, we understand what it takes to create a flexible and affordable education for busy people. Since we have been investing in distance and online learning for decades, our experience has taught us how to streamline our degree options so you can focus on what really matters to you. While many schools offer online degrees, we believe Liberty stands out.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• We are recognized by multiple institutions for our academic quality, affordability, and accessibility . Our commitment to excellence also helped us rank in the top 10% of Niche.com’s best online schools in America . Earning your online Ph.D. in History degree from a nonprofit university with this kind of recognition can help set you apart from others in your field.
• Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.
• This program is offered in an 8-week course format, with 8 different start dates each year, and no set login times!
• Students will benefit from networking opportunities with other professionals in the program from around the country.
• The Ph.D. in History is the only program of its kind offered from a conservative Christian worldview and an accredited university.
• Your degree requires experience both inside and outside the classroom, allowing you to be fully prepared for any professional setting you choose.

Military Tuition Discount

We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want — at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only  $300/credit hour . Here’s how:

• If you’re earning or have earned a master’s degree through Liberty, you automatically qualify for the low price (when you begin within 2 years of your master’s completion).
• If you haven’t earned a graduate degree through Liberty, our Executive Certificate program allows you to pay only $300/credit hour for a postgraduate certificate that can stand alone or potentially count as the first 21 hours of a related doctoral degree. Then pay just $300/credit hour for your doctorate. Learn more!

Credit Hours

100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer Credits

Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Next Start Date

Sep 16, 2024

Accreditation

Liberty University is accredited by SACSCOC

Maximize Your Time

• 100% online programs   at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral level.*
• Earn credit for prior learning.
• Transfer in up to 75%  of a bachelor’s degree.
• Transfer in up to 50%  of a master’s degree.

* excludes licensure, certification, and some doctoral programs

Your goals on your time

We are committed to helping you achieve your goals and complete your degree as quickly as possible. One of our admissions counselors is ready to assist you with starting the process.

Contact Us:   (800) 424-9595

Why Choose Liberty University?

Prepare for a career.

Go from merely surviving in your current job to thriving in the career of your dreams.

Enjoy Flexible Courses

Complete assignments at your own pace, at a time convenient to you within each week.

Access Academic Support

Access our electronic and print resources through the Jerry Falwell Library, writing resources, study aids, and IT support.

Grow in Your Faith

Each of our programs is grounded in biblical principles, and our professors consider teaching to be more than a job – it’s their calling.

Liberty’s online courses give you the ability to choose when and where you study.

Financing options, financial aid.

87% of all Liberty students in an online program are awarded financial aid.

Tuition Discounts

Available for military service members, including active duty, reserve, veterans, and their spouses, as well as emergency response personnel.

Corporate Tuition Assistance

Deferred – If your company reimburses you for the cost of your education, you submit your grades to your employer who pays you, and then you pay for your classes.

Other Payment Options are Available

Contact one of our admissions counselors for more information by calling (800) 424-9595 .

An Accredited Private Education Made for You

As a nonprofit university, we have been pioneering distance education since 1985 and offer a unique and proven approach to online education.

Along with our advanced accreditations, we also have been recognized by the following organizations for our excellence in education.

Liberty University is proud to announce that we are recognized by multiple institutions for our affordability, accessibility, and academic quality. Our commitment to excellence also helped us rank in the top 10% of Niche.com’s best online schools in America . 

• Schools & departments

PhD by Distance

The PhD by Distance programme allows students who are unable to commit to basing themselves in Edinburgh to study for a PhD in a field of History, Classics or Archaeology from their home country or city.

What's involved?

The PhD by Distance mode is available to all applicants for eligible HCA PhD programmes, who will apply via the Postgraduate Degree Finder . Applicants will select between on-campus and distance options, as well as between part-time and full-time options.

PhD by Distance students will receive the same level of support and supervision as on-campus students. The frequency with which students will meet with their supervisors, and method of communication for supervision sessions, will be provisionally agreed at the point of application and confirmed during induction. 

Please be aware that some funding bodies do not permit students to study by distance, for example both  ESRC  and  AHRC  regulations currently state that students must be residents at the Institution where they are studying.

Entry requirements

The entry requirements for the PhD by Distance are the same as for the School’s on-campus PhD programmes.  

In addition, applicants to the PhD by Distance will also be required to complete a PhD by Distance Applicant Admission Form. This form must be emailed to the Postgraduate Research Office ( [email protected] ) who will upload this to your application on your behalf.

Applicants should provide information about previous experience of distance study together with a statement detailing the potential risks and characteristics of distance learning. It is important that student’s applying for this mode of study recognise its particular challenges. While experience of studying at a distance is desirable in applying for the programme, this is not a specific requirement for admission. All of this should be discussed with the potential supervisor(s) prior to application and can be reflected on further during the admissions interview.

Applicants should also use this additional application form to provide details of the access they will have to research facilities at the normal site of study and where the core datasets that they will rely on are located.

Working whilst studying

The School understands that many students will take on paid work alongside their studies. The University’s guidance for full-time PhD students is that they should work no more than an average of 9 hours per week for across the academic year, to ensure they have time for their studies. While there are no specific rules about how many hours part-time students can work, the School recommends that part-time students allocate at least two to three days a week, on average across the year, to their PhD research. You should discuss any working patterns that you have with your proposed supervisor and reflect on the time you are devoting to your studies throughout your programme, particularly if you are struggling to make sufficient progress; this might well be a topic for discussion at annual reviews. Please note that if you need to apply for an extension at the end of your programme, you cannot use the fact that you had a job alongside your studies as a justification for this – an extension request can only be based on unforeseen circumstances. If you need to take on more work for a temporary period of time and this will impact on your studies, you should consider an Authorised Interruption of Studies.

This article was published on 2024-08-01

Hand-Picked Top-Read Stories

Why you should or shouldn’t get a phd, what is self-plagiarism and how can you avoid it, what’s the difference between a dissertation and a thesis, trending tags, online phd in history: a quick guide, table of contents hide, job prospects for phd history graduates, why history is important, the main courses covered under history phd online programs, admission requirements for online phd in history, liberty university phd in history online, birmingham university online phd in history, university of leicester phd history online program, core skills learned in an online history phd program.

Embarking on a PhD in history is a rewarding and intellectually stimulating pursuit. In this quick guide, we delve into the world of online PhD programs in history, exploring the benefits, challenges, and key considerations, helping you make an informed decision as you pursue academic excellence and enhance your historical expertise from the comfort of your own home.

The history of the world is a story that is constantly being written and rewritten. As new evidence comes to light, new interpretations of history are developed. As our understanding of the past evolves, so too does the field of history itself. The study of history is essential for understanding the present and preparing for the future. And thanks to the explosion in online education, those who desire to reach the highest levels of history studies can now pursue online PhD programs in history. It’s a good time. 

Online PhD programs are increasingly becoming among students who love the convenience of getting the best education without the hustle of on-campus settings. These programs offer students the opportunity to conduct research from anywhere in the world and to engage with a global community of scholars. With the vast amount of historical material that is now available online, online PhD programs in history offer a unique opportunity to explore history in ways that were not previously possible.

There are many job prospects for graduates of online history PhD programs. Historians are employed in a variety of settings, such as museums, historical societies, libraries, archives, government agencies, and corporations. They may also work as independent scholars or consultants. The job market for historians is expected to grow in the coming years, as the need for historians with expertise in digital media and public history increases.

The future of online PhD programs in history is promising as more and more institutions continue to offer these programs. Earning your PhD in history online will give you the skills and credentials you need to take your career to the next level. 

First, what is history? Many people might say that it is the study of the past. While this is true, history is so much more than that. The study of history also helps us to understand the present. It can help us to make better decisions, to understand our world and our place in it, and to learn from the mistakes of the past. 

History teaches us about different cultures and how they have interacted with each other. It teaches us about the human experience and how different people have responded to different events throughout history. It can also help us to understand our own personal histories and how they have shaped who we are today. 

Because history is so important, it is essential that we have historians who can research and teach us about it. That is why getting a PhD in history can be such a valuable thing. With a PhD in history, you can become a teacher or professor, or you could work for a museum or historical society. You could also work for a publishing company or for a government agency that deals with historical records. No matter what your career goals may be, a PhD in history will help you to reach them. 

The history PhD programs online are designed to provide students with rich historical knowledge with practical applications to present realities. These courses include, but are not limited to, American history, European history, world history, historical methods and research, statistics, research methodology, and the history of education. In addition to these courses, students are also required to complete a dissertation in order to graduate from the program. 

Students who enroll for a PhD online history program can choose to specialize in one of two areas including regional history, country histories for example American history, world history etc. Additionally, students have the option to focus their research on a specific time period or region of the world. Just be sure to choose an online PhD history accredited program.

In order to be eligible for the online PhD in history across most universities, you must have a masters or bachelors degree from an accredited institution. In addition, you must submit transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as letters of recommendation and a CV or resume. 

You will also be required to submit a statement of purpose and a writing sample. The statement of purpose should discuss your interest in history and your goals for the PhD program. The writing sample should be an academic essay on a historical topic of your choice. 

Finally, you will need to provide contact information for three references. 

Best Online History PhD Programs

These PhD history programs online are selected based on quality, ease of access and faculty depth. Once again it’s important to remember that Online PhD in history programs are an excellent choice for students who are interested in pursuing a career in academia or historical research. However, graduates of this program are also qualified to work in a variety of other fields, including teaching, archival work, and museum work. 

Here now are some of the best programs for online PhD in history;

Liberty University is a nonprofit institution of higher education that offers a comprehensive online PhD in History program. The online phd in history is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Courses offered under this program are designed to help graduates work in a variety of fields, including education, museums, archives, publishing, government, and other history-related careers. Liberty University’s online PhD in History program is one of the most flexible and accessible programs in the country. 

Liberty offers a variety of specialization options in this PhD, and the program can be completed in as little as three years. Liberty also has a robust network of alumni, who are always willing to help new students transition into the program. The faculty at Liberty is composed of experts in their field, and the program is administered by a team of experienced professionals. The graduation rate at Liberty is high and not forgetting the online program is specifically designed to help students succeed. If you’re looking for an online PhD in History, Liberty University should be at the top of your list.

The online PhD in history at Birmingham University is a research-based program that lasts three years. You will be required to complete a dissertation based on your original research. The program is flexible and can be tailored to the student’s individual needs and interests. The curriculum covers a broad range of topics, including global history, the history of war, and the history of science and technology. 

Birmingham University is one of the world’s leading research universities, and the online PhD in History program provides access to the latest resources and facilities. The program can be completed online, and students have the freedom to choose when and where to study. Like all other PhD programs in art history,  this is an excellent choice for those who wish to pursue a career in academia or research.

University of Leicester offers an online PhD in history program that is designed to help students gain a strong understanding of early modern history, global, colonial, post-colonial history, and medieval history. The program covers a wide range of courses that will help students develop their research and writing skills. Students will also have the opportunity to specialize in a particular area of history that interests them. 

The University of Leicester PhD in history online program is ideal for students who want to continue working while they earn their degree. The program is also perfect for students who want to specialize in a particular area of history. Graduates of the program will be prepared for a career in academia or historical research. 

PhD programs in history online or on-campus are not just about mastering historical facts. In fact there is so much you will also learn in terms of practical skills that will help you in your career progression. These skills include;

Communications: A PhD in History will help you develop strong communication skills. This is important because you will be required to write for publications, for instance,  and give presentations as a historian.

Critical thinking: A PhD in history will also help you to think critically about the past and present. In order to be successful as a historian, you need to be able to analyze and interpret sources, as well as think about the environment in which they were created.

Context: Lastly, a PhD in history will help you understand the importance of context and how to apply it in real life. Historians must contextualize the past within its political, social, and cultural setting in order to provide an accurate interpretation. 

Whether you are just starting your academic career or looking for a way to take it to the next level by dancing, an online PhD in history can be a great option. With courses that cover everything from ancient Greece to modern America, this program can help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to thrive. And with the job market for history graduates ever intact and promising, you can be confident that your PhD will help you find the career you want. So if you are ready to take your future into your own hands, the online PhD in history is the perfect way to do it.

PHD in Economics, Associate Professor, Department of Business Process Management, Faculty of Market Technologies IOM

We have 14 History (distance learning) PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

History & Archaeology

All locations

Institution

All Institutions

All PhD Types

All Funding

History (distance learning) PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

Classics and ancient history - postgraduate research opportunities, awaiting funding decision/possible external funding.

This programme is waiting to confirm funding from a university or external source. This may depend on attracting suitable students and applications are welcome. Please see the programme details for more information.

Humanities Research Programme

Humanities Research Programmes present a range of research opportunities, shaped by a university’s particular expertise, facilities and resources. You will usually identify a suitable topic for your PhD and propose your own project. Additional training and development opportunities may also be offered as part of your programme.

African Studies and Anthropology - Postgraduate Research Opportunities

Arts research programme.

Arts Research Programmes present a range of research opportunities, shaped by a university’s particular expertise, facilities and resources. You will usually identify a suitable topic for your PhD and propose your own project. Additional training and development opportunities may also be offered as part of your programme.

History - Postgraduate Research Opportunities

Phd at the university of london institute in paris, funded phd programme (students worldwide).

Some or all of the PhD opportunities in this programme have funding attached. Applications for this programme are welcome from suitably qualified candidates worldwide. Funding may only be available to a limited set of nationalities and you should read the full programme details for further information.

Cultural Heritage - Postgraduate Research Opportunities

Social sciences research programme.

Social Sciences Research Programmes present a range of research opportunities, shaped by a university’s particular expertise, facilities and resources. You will usually identify a suitable topic for your PhD and propose your own project. Additional training and development opportunities may also be offered as part of your programme.

PhD at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies

Phd at the centre for latin american and caribbean studies, phd at the institute of classical studies, history of art - postgraduate research opportunities, phd at the institute of historical research, phd at the institute of english studies, phd at the warburg institute, phd opportunities in english, history and performance, funded phd programme (uk students only).

Some or all of the PhD opportunities in this programme have funding attached. It is only available to UK citizens or those who have been resident in the UK for a period of 3 years or more. Some projects, which are funded by charities or by the universities themselves may have more stringent restrictions.

Professional Doctorate of Education (EdD)

Professional doctorate.

A professional doctorate combines academic research with professional and vocational practice and reflection. The qualification is equivalent to a PhD, but usually involves more formal teaching and training in addition to producing an original thesis. Applicants are often more experienced professionals seeking to advance their careers or transmit practical knowledge to an academic setting. Many study part-time alongside their existing roles.

FindAPhD. Copyright 2005-2024 All rights reserved.

Unknown    ( change )

Have you got time to answer some quick questions about PhD study?

Select your nearest city

You haven’t completed your profile yet. To get the most out of FindAPhD, finish your profile and receive these benefits:

• Monthly chance to win one of ten £10 Amazon vouchers ; winners will be notified every month.*
• The latest PhD projects delivered straight to your inbox
• Access to our £6,000 scholarship competition
• Weekly newsletter with funding opportunities, research proposal tips and much more
• Early access to our physical and virtual postgraduate study fairs

Or begin browsing FindAPhD.com

or begin browsing FindAPhD.com

*Offer only available for the duration of your active subscription, and subject to change. You MUST claim your prize within 72 hours, if not we will redraw.

Create your account

Looking to list your PhD opportunities? Log in here .

Filtering Results

PhD by distance learning

The faculties of Environment and Arts, Humanities and Cultures offer PhD by distance learning across most schools.

PhD by distance learning allows you to study at a time and place that suits you and, with a part-time option available, you'll have the flexibility to gain an advanced degree alongside work and other commitments.

Through completing a PhD, you will become an expert in a specialist area and gain high-quality research training.

Our PhD by distance learning programmes

Faculty of environment.

• School of Earth and Environment
• School of Food Science and Nutrition
• School of Geography
• Institute for Transport Studies

Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Cultures

• School of Design
• School of English
• School of Fine Art, History of Art and Cultural Studies
• School of History 
• School of Languages, Cultures and Societies
• School of Music
• School of Performance and Cultural Industries
• School of Philosophy, Religion and History of Science
• Inter-Disciplinary Ethics Applied Centre

• Online Doctoral Programs
• Part Time Doctoral Programs
• Executive Programs
• Accounting Programs
• Finance Programs
• Marketing Programs
• Management Programs
• Software Engineering Programs

Education Programs

• Counseling Programs
• Neuroscience Programs
• Nursing Programs
• Physical Therapy Programs
• Creative Writing
• English Programs
• Clinical Psychology Programs
• Criminal Jusitce Programs
• History Programs
• Political Science Programs
• Psychology Programs
• Social Work Programs

What You Will Learn in a History PhD Program

When students enroll in a history PhD program, they will gain knowledge and skills that will be vital to their careers later on. Students will gain a deep and comprehensive understanding of historical disciplines and methods of inquiry, critical thinking skills that can be applied to a variety of historical sources and commentaries, and will learn how to conduct original research that provides a noteworthy scholarly contribution to the field overall.

Skills Needed and Expectations

Students who are seeking to complete a PhD in history will need to choose a specialty since the field of history is so broad. Some of the specializations that students can select include medieval European history, African-American history, Latin American history, womenís history, ancient Egyptian history, and many others.

Within each of these specializations, students will be expected to study, understand, and be able to speak authoritatively on various aspects of these civilizations. These aspects include the overall culture, the political philosophy, and the place of women and men in each of these societies. They will also need to be able to reflect on the artistic, literary, or other contributions that each society has produced and discuss how these contributions do or donít reflect the mores of the era they are studying.

Students in history Ph.D. programs need to be able to research and write well, since much of their coursework will require them to write well thought out papers on certain subjects related to both history in general and in their chosen specialization.

Students will also need to make connections between general and specific concepts, examine and evaluate the theories of other scholars, and form logical and coherent arguments. They will be required to demonstrate background knowledge of the discipline on their qualifying exams. The dissertation thesis will require them to write an extremely thorough and well-researched paper on a topic of their choosing, in addition to an oral defense of this paper.

What Do Online History PhD Programs Have to Offer?

There are few online history PhD programs. Those that exist tend to be multi-disciplinary in nature.

The University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee offers a doctoral program in the Social Foundations of Education, which prompts the student to explore the history and politics of education in urban areas. Students who choose the online option will pay in-state tuition. More information about the program can be found through direct contact at the [email protected] , or by going to the program website at cms.uwm.edu .

The London School of Economics and Political Science offers an online Ph.D. in international history. This is a prestigious program that requires rigorous scholarly work from its students. Students will perform research on foreign languages and will attend seminars at the Institute for Historical Research and special research seminars. In addition to extensive research training, this program will train students in foreign languages and computing. The website for the department is www2.lse.ac.uk .

What Do Offline History PhD Programs Have to Offer?

Most major universities have history departments offering bachelorís and doctoral degrees. An overview of some of the top-ranked doctoral history programs is given below.

University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvaniaís doctoral history program is a small program with an impressive reputation of excellence and in placement of students in employment after graduation. It requires students to complete sixty credits over the course of three years, divided up by twenty credits each.

Students will choose an area of concentration focusing on a geographical location and a field of specialization within that location. Students will also need to demonstrate foreign language competence and complete a dissertation, which usually concludes after two years of research and writing (following the three years of course work). To find out more, contact the program at [email protected] . The PhD program website is located here .

University of Wisconsin-Madison

The University of Wisconsin-Madison doctoral history program is a large and extensive program. Much of the research undertaken in this program is seen as experimental and interdisciplinary, using research methods from subjects such as anthropology, sociology, geography, and international relations.

Students can choose from African history, Central Asian history, comparative world history, East Asian history, European history, gender and womenís history, Latin American and Caribbean history, Middle Eastern history, South Asian history, Southeast Asian history, and United States history. To complete the degree, students must complete 48 credits, demonstrate reading knowledge in at least two foreign languages, and complete a dissertation and an oral defense.

For more information, the department contact is [email protected] . Be sure to stop by their website at history.wisc.edu .

University of Washington

The University of Washingtonís doctoral program in history requires a preliminary examination, foreign language proficiency, and a dissertation and oral defense. Students have a wide variety of fields of study from which to choose, including ancient Greece, ancient Rome, ancient Near East, Russia and Eastern Europe, pre-modern Asia, modern Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Latin America, United States, the history of science, and comparative history.

A few courses in this program, such as the History of Modern Japan and the History of the Pacific Northwest, may be taken online. The University of Washingtonís history Ph.D. program has an excellent graduate job placement record. To find out more, contact them at [email protected] . Their website can be accessed at depts.washington.edu .

Harvard University

Harvard Universityís doctoral history program provides students training in researching and writing about history. Students who complete the program often find themselves in teaching positions, or sometimes they end up working in legal or government careers. If they choose, students can study history in combination with law at Harvard Law School. Harvardís graduate student resources include fellowships, grants, lectures, and conferences.

Harvard requires a personal statement, a writing sample, and reading ability in two foreign languages. This is a competitive program to which only serious students are encouraged to apply. Students will spend the first two years on coursework and on preparation for the general examination. They will also be given instruction on teaching practices to prepare them for their careers as professors.

To contact the program, e-mail the department at [email protected] or visit Harvardís website at history.fas.harvard.edu .

Syracuse University

Syracuse Universityís history doctoral program is located in the Maxwell School, a social science institution that allows students to pursue interdisciplinary studies in order to give them a well-rounded education. Students need to submit a personal statement and demonstrate competence in two languages beyond English. Students can take courses in American history, European history, the history of India, and womenís history.

Prospective students should e-mail the school about the program at [email protected] . The website is www.maxwell.syr.edu .

Northwestern University

Northwestern University has a renowned doctoral history program which has garnered it numerous research fellowships and book awards. Many members of the faculty have also won teaching awards. It is a small program, only admitting (at most) 20 students per year. Most students choose to focus on American, European, or African history, though Latin American and Asian history do exist as options.

Because of the small size of the program, students benefit from close interaction with the faculty members and can receive more personal attention. Students will be taught profound understanding of the field and historical criticism and analysis in preparation for conducting their own research for their dissertations. E-mail [email protected] for additional information, or see the website: www.history.northwestern.edu .

Stanford University

Stanford Universityís doctoral history program offers students 14 fields of study from which to choose, including African history, ancient history, British history, early modern European history, East Asian history, Eastern European/Russian history, Jewish history, Latin American history, medieval European history, Middle Eastern history, modern European history, scientific history, transnational, international and global history, and the history of the United States.

Admission to the program is very competitive. For more information, contact the Graduate Program Administrator at [email protected] . See Stanfordís history graduate program website www.stanford.edu .

University of Miami

The University of Miami requires a comprehensive examination, passing of written and oral exams, and a dissertation. The number of credits required to complete the coursework depends on the students prior education levels, ranging from 45 credits if the student has a B.A. to 27 credits if the student has an M.A. Students must also demonstrate their ability to read in at least one foreign language.

Some of the fields that students can specialize in include medieval Europe, modern Europe, early American and modern American history, colonial and modern Latin America, East Asia, Russia, Russia, Africa, the Caribbean, the African diaspora, the history of religion, science, crime, law, labor, and military history, among others.

Interested students should contact the Director of Graduate Studies at [email protected] . Their website can be found at www.as.miami.edu .

Georgetown University

Georgetown Universityís history PhD program offers a variety of fields of study to its students, including the history of early modern and late medieval Europe, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East and North Africa, modern Europe, Russia and Eastern Europe, the United States, and transregional history. However, the department also allows students to inquire about other fields in accordance with the expertise of the faculty, including the history of science, African history, and environmental history.

This program requires students to complete the core curriculum, part of the 36 hours of required graduate coursework. Students must take comprehensive examinations to prove their knowledge of the field, and must also pass a language proficiency test in which they demonstrate their capability in reading in a relevant language other than English.

Students wanting to learn more should contact the Director of Graduate Studies at [email protected] . Visit the website at history.georgetown.edu .

Jobs and Employment Opportunities

A career as a historian or a college history professor is the most likely career choice for people with doctorate degrees in history. This profession requires teaching courses to undergraduates and graduates at the university level and will also involve performing research and publishing papers in oneís area of expertise. It may also involve mentoring history students as an academic advisor. A small number of doctorates in history may be able to secure positions with government agencies and think-tanks.

The job market of this discipline is contracting, and has continued to do so as the economy has worsened. The number of Ph.D.s awarded to history students has increased, while the jobs for people with this specific degree are decreasing. There also have not been any drops in the number of students enrolling in doctoral history programs, which means there will likely be too many candidates for too few jobs in the years to come, even as doctoral history students diversify their educations.

Salary Information

The median average salary of history professors according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics is about $60,000 a year. Historians and history professors can advance in their careers and increase their earnings by publishing their research in academic journals and publications. Full-time university faculty in the history department on the tenure track can expect to earn between $80,000 and $100,000 a year.

Top Ranked Doctoral Programs

Search for other great programs, 8 responses to “history programs”.

Looking for a far distance PhD or Master Course in American History/Military History. Recently I have published a book in German Language about German Fraternity Members in the US Civil War: http://versand.akadpress.de/produktinformation.html?cPath=22&products_id=381 ;

My current educational back ground is a Master of Science in Engineering (Dipl.-Ing.) from the Technical University of Berlin.

thank you and kind regards

Rüdiger B. Richter

I have my MSN and currently I am a nursing instructor, however, history in many areas, anchient foremost is a passionate interest of mine and instead of continuing a degree in nursing I would like to follow my interests. Would a science major like myself have a long way to go to get a doctorate in a history field?? Thank you for any help you have on this matter.

I read B.A. and M.A. History and I want enroll into phd prohramme in history. I will be glad to hear from you

l got 57%marks in history M.A i want to do phd degree in same as any corespondance mean at home is this possible

Dear/Sirs By name am Mengesha from Ethiopian poor family those who cant afford me my educational cost. And I have B.A and M.A but still I can’t get any jobs So I need to upgrade my educational level,skills,knowledges and status to a Ph.d level by your online ph.d scholarship programme of womens history or Afro American history. I have a dream to serve my people and country with a great devotion!!! If you have a place pls pls help me!!

I have completed B.A. Mphil and PhD in history. I want to go for an postdoctoral degree. I am specialized in South Asian history. Can you pls help me. Thanking you, Nadee

I have completed bsc now currently doing M.A history through ionou i want to do phd in history please guide me what to do to get admission in any best University for that

I just completed my M.A. History and want to pursue a PhD with a focus on American colonial Empire/ and social memory. I am currently working full time to support my family and looking for a program with flexible scheduling. Can you please advice

Share Your Thoughts

Click here to cancel reply.

Name (required)

Mail (will not be published) (required)

XHTML: You can use these tags: <a href="" title=""> <abbr title=""> <acronym title=""> <b> <blockquote cite=""> <cite> <code> <del datetime=""> <em> <i> <q cite=""> <s> <strike> <strong>

Part Time & Online

Business programs, health programs, liberal arts, sociology programs.

• US Department of Education

Doctoral Programs - © 2010 - 2024 Cudazi for ThemeForest.net -->

Our cookies

We use cookies for three reasons: to give you the best experience on PGS, to make sure the PGS ads you see on other sites are relevant , and to measure website usage. Some of these cookies are necessary to help the site work properly and can’t be switched off. Cookies also support us to provide our services for free, and by click on “Accept” below, you are agreeing to our use of cookies .You can manage your preferences now or at any time.

Privacy overview

We use cookies, which are small text files placed on your computer, to allow the site to work for you, improve your user experience, to provide us with information about how our site is used, and to deliver personalised ads which help fund our work and deliver our service to you for free.

The information does not usually directly identify you, but it can give you a more personalised web experience.

You can accept all, or else manage cookies individually. However, blocking some types of cookies may affect your experience of the site and the services we are able to offer.

You can change your cookies preference at any time by visiting our Cookies Notice page. Please remember to clear your browsing data and cookies when you change your cookies preferences. This will remove all cookies previously placed on your browser.

For more detailed information about the cookies we use, or how to clear your browser cookies data see our Cookies Notice

Manage consent preferences

Strictly necessary cookies

These cookies are necessary for the website to function and cannot be switched off in our systems.

They are essential for you to browse the website and use its features.

You can set your browser to block or alert you about these cookies, but some parts of the site will not then work. We can’t identify you from these cookies.

Functional cookies

These help us personalise our sites for you by remembering your preferences and settings. They may be set by us or by third party providers, whose services we have added to our pages. If you do not allow these cookies, then these services may not function properly.

Performance cookies

These cookies allow us to count visits and see where our traffic comes from, so we can measure and improve the performance of our site. They help us to know which pages are popular and see how visitors move around the site. The cookies cannot directly identify any individual users.

If you do not allow these cookies we will not know when you have visited our site and will not be able to improve its performance for you.

Marketing cookies

These cookies may be set through our site by social media services or our advertising partners. Social media cookies enable you to share our content with your friends and networks. They can track your browser across other sites and build up a profile of your interests. If you do not allow these cookies you may not be able to see or use the content sharing tools.

Advertising cookies may be used to build a profile of your interests and show you relevant adverts on other sites. They do not store directly personal information, but work by uniquely identifying your browser and internet device. If you do not allow these cookies, you will still see ads, but they won’t be tailored to your interests.

Course type

Qualification, university name, distance learning phd history.

31 degrees at 10 universities in the UK.

Customise your search

Select the start date, qualification, and how you want to study

Related subjects:

• PhD History
• PhD African History
• PhD Americas: History
• PhD Ancient History
• PhD Early Medieval History
• PhD Economic and Political History
• PhD European History
• PhD Historical Research
• PhD History of Specific Areas and Countries
• PhD History of Specific Periods
• PhD Late Medieval History
• PhD Modern History
• PhD Social History
• PhD Theoretical History

• Course title (A-Z)
• Course title (Z-A)
• Price: high - low
• Price: low - high

Archaeology and Ancient History PhD, Mphil - Prehistoric Archaeology

University of leicester.

The School of Archaeology and Ancient History offers supervision for the degrees of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) - full-time and Read more...

• 4 years Distance without attendance degree: £5,913 per year (UK)
• 3 years Full time degree: £4,786 per year (UK)
• 6 years Part time degree: £2,393 per year (UK)

History PhDs and Mphils (Distance Learning)

University of portsmouth.

If you're interested in taking your existing knowledge and expertise in History into a postgraduate research degree, then Portsmouth is the Read more...

• 6 years Distance without attendance degree: £2,393 per year (UK)
• 3 years Distance without attendance degree: £2,393 per year (UK)

MPhil/PhD in History

Manchester metropolitan university.

Discover your research degree study options, including areas of expertise for our academic supervisors. Our research degrees will help you Read more...

• 3 years Distance without attendance degree
• 6 years Distance without attendance degree
• 6 years Part time degree

Classics and Ancient History PhD (On-Campus or by Distance Learning)

University of birmingham.

The Department of Classics and Ancient History offers the opportunity to carry out postgraduate research in a distinctively wide range of Read more...

Archaeology and Ancient History PhD, Mphil - Greek Archaeology

Byzantine, ottoman and modern greek studies phd (on-campus or by distance learning).

Carry out your postgraduate research in the only centre in the UK to bring together Byzantine, Ottoman and Modern Greek studies. Benefit Read more...

History Mphil/PhD

History at Leicester offers supervision for the degrees of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) - full-time and part-time; Master of Philosophy Read more...

History PhD (On-Campus or by Distance Learning)

As a postgraduate researcher in the Department of History you will have the opportunity to work alongside academic staff whose research is Read more...

Archaeology and Ancient History PhD, MPhil

African studies phd (on-campus or by distance learning).

The Department of African Studies and Anthropology has an international reputation as a centre of excellence in the study of Africa and its Read more...

History PhD/MPhil - Medical Humanities

Archaeology and ancient history phd, mphil - ancient history, archaeology and ancient history phd, mphil - medieval and historical archaeology, biology - neuroscience and behaviour phd, mphil.

Department of Genetics and Genome Biology offers supervision for the degrees of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) - full-time and Read more...

Archaeology and Ancient History PhD, Mphil - Material Culture Studies

History phd/mphil - modern british and european history, history phd/mphil - modern american history, history phd/mphil - global, colonial and post-colonial history, history phd - early modern history, history phd/mphil - medieval history.

1-20 of 31 courses

Course type:

• Distance learning PhD
• Full time PhD
• Part time PhD

Qualification:

Universities:.

• The University of Edinburgh
• University of London Institute in Paris
• University of York
• University of London Worldwide
• University of Bristol
• Institute of Historical Research, School of Advanced Study, University of London

Related Subjects:

• Skip to content
• About Accessibility on our website

• Staff Directory
• Research by Distance Learning
• University Home
• The School of Divinity, History, Philosophy & Art History
• Degrees, Programmes and Courses
• Postgraduate Research

The School of

Divinity, History, Philosophy & Art History

Maintaining a tradition of teaching & learning dating back over 500 years

Before you apply, you should contact a potential supervisor to discuss your research proposal and the feasibility of conducting your project at a distance. You and your potential supervisor should discuss whether your research can be undertaken completely at a distance or whether some campus trips will be necessary, especially with regards to acquiring necessary research skills.

You are welcome to visit Aberdeen before the start of your research to become acquainted with your supervisor and the university. If you are interested in undertaking a PhD via distance learning but are uncertain who to approach, please contact the  Postgraduate Administrator .

You can make your application for a PhD or research masters  online . Please read the  FAQ page  to help you complete your application form.

Alongside your application form, you will need to upload the following supporting documents online:

• Copies of your undergraduate and graduate degree certificates
• Academic transcripts for your undergraduate and graduate degrees. The transcript, which lists all of the classes taken and marks gained, must be requested by the student. You should therefore get in touch with the University where you gained your degree, and arrange for this to be sent to you.
• Two academic references; either the details of your referees provided on your application form or uploaded online with your application.
• Your research proposal
• If English is not your first language and you have not studied previously at an institution in the UK, you will need to demonstrate your proficiency in English by taking an IELTS, TOEFL or PTE academic test .

If you need to send some of your supporting documents at a later date, you can upload your supporting documents online after you have submitted your application. Please note that your application will not be processed until all supporting documents have been submitted.

Full fees apply.

If you have any queries, please contact the Postgraduate Administrator at dhpa-pg-admissions@abdn .ac.uk  or alternatively call +44 (0) 1224 27 2199.

Online Distance Learning for a PhD in American History

Jennifer is a prolific writer with over 10 years of experience in online writing. She enjoys creating quotes and poems.

Learn about our Editorial Policy .

Nothing sounds better than an online program for working professionals or non-traditional students. However, when searching for an American History program at the doctoral level, there isn't much variety available. Learn about two online graduate programs in American history to advance your education.

Liberty University Offers an Online PhD in History

Liberty University is a accredited online university that offers a Christian-based online learning experience through the College of Arts and Science doctoral program in history. This program is fully online, with 8-week courses and offers flexible scheduling for working adults. Taking a Christian world view on American history, you'll network with faculty and other students through an online learning platform.

• Divorce Rate by Profession: The 9 Highest and 7 Lowest

In Depth Curriculum Overview

The PhD in History at Liberty University is 72 credit hours and expected to take four years. In addition to conducting original research in American history, students will complete featured online courses in historical professions, public history and American entrepreneurship. An additional 18-credit hours in historical methods, historical research and historiography will round out the core curriculum. Because you want to tailor your education to American history, Liberty lets you take nine specialization and elective courses specifically in U.S. history. Prior to completing your program, you'll complete reading and dissertation courses.

Gaining Admission

Getting acceptance into Liberty means you'll be required to complete a program application for admission. Additionally, you need to submit graduate test scores and transcripts for previous programs completed. Getting in will require you to hold a master's in your educational repertoire.

Student Reviews

According to Graduate Programs , Liberty graduate programs were noted for being affordable and military friendly. Of 461 reviews, Liberty's graduate programs were given a 96% approval rating by current students. Quality of instruction and satisfaction of degree also received high marks for Liberty. Gwynnedolynne James noted the school offered "great benefits for graduate level students like myself who have a family, full-time jobs, community events and more. LUO offers 100% online degree programs which allows for flexibility for students with busy schedules to still be successful."

Arizona State University Offers a Hybrid PhD in History

Ranked 69th by U.S. News and World Report for history programs, the School of Historical, Philosophical and Religious Studies offers a hybrid PhD in History . A hybrid program offers both online and on-campus coursework.

Areas of Concentration

American history students can concentrate their program in North American and U.S. History through choosing three different concentrations. These concentrations, or fields, cover both thematic and geographic fields of study. For example, a U.S. history program could include concentrations in U.S. history, indigenous peoples and politics and policy. Work through the concentration is guided by a close relationship with faculty. Because of the relationship with faculty and mentoring, some on campus visits and coursework will be required.

Examining the Curriculum

Within the program, you'll be required to complete 84 credits to graduate. These credits are made up of core, research and elective courses. In the core courses, you'll take an in-depth look at history methodology and explore global history. Within your concentration, you'll examine the American experience, race and culture, religion, migration and North American cultural landscapes. Rounding out your program, you'll complete a dissertation, seminar and mandatory research.

Getting into the program will require you to complete the online application . But filling out the app isn't enough, you also need to provide the school with GRE scores, references, a writing sample and statement of purpose. This is in addition to the submission of transcripts showing your successful completion of a master's program.

What Students Say

While reviews for the history program itself are slim to none, you can find reviews for the ASU graduate program experience. According to Graduate Programs , ASU has a 97% student recommendation. Many students note the helpfulness of the faculty and the excellent student support for online learners.

Lack of Online PhD in History Programs

Finding PhD in American History programs through distance education can be tough. Given the connection that you need with faculty to complete your dissertation and research, more often than not on-campus programs are the way to go. However, finding hybrid and online programs like those at Liberty and ASU do offer you the flexibility to complete your coursework on your time. Whether you complete an online or on-campus program with online courses, just remember to research your program to make sure you are getting the best education for your hard-earned money.

Online PhD Programs

Regardless of academic field or discipline, doctoral degrees are considered terminal; they demand the highest standards of rigorous academic study and research.

Students who earn an online Ph.D. or professional doctorate fall into an elite category of highly educated professionals. Doctoral students acquire broad understanding of their discipline, specialized expertise in their field, and advanced research and writing skills. Many students opt to complete Ph.D. programs online instead of on campus.

Doctoral programs demand several years of challenging academic work, but they prove valuable for many aspiring academics, researchers, and working professionals seeking career and salary advancement. Doctoral degrees help many professionals become professors or administrators in sectors such as healthcare or education. Many doctoral programs only accept students with related master's degrees or related professional experience.

This page surveys some of the doctoral degree types and career paths available. See below for information on Ph.D. online program quality, pricing, and length. This information, plus our ranked list of top online Ph.D. programs, helps readers determine whether an online doctoral program aligns with their career goals, qualifications, and strengths.

What is a Doctoral Degree?

Certain prestigious and specialized career paths require doctoral-level degrees, the most advanced degrees available in most fields. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the number of doctoral students has increased steadily in recent years, making doctoral degrees necessary for competition in certain career paths.

Qualified candidates for many positions in higher education, research, or law hold a Ph.D. or another doctoral-level professional degree such as a doctor of education (Ed.D.), juris doctor (JD), or various medical doctoral degrees.

Doctoral-level medical careers include veterinarians, who need doctor of veterinary medicine (D.V.M.) degrees; physical therapists, who earn doctor of physical therapy (DPT) degrees; and medical doctors, who hold doctor of medicine (MD) or doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO) degrees.

Doctoral degrees often take 3-8 years to finish. Practicum or professional experience requirements influence doctoral program length in many health and education fields. Exam-based professional programs such as the JD often require just 3-4 years to complete. Ph.D. programs involving independent research projects often take 6-9 years to finish.

Depending on industry, career path, and level of success, graduates often see a valuable return on their time investment. The College Payoff , a report produced by the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce, indicates that doctoral degree-holders' lifetime earnings average $3.3-$3.6 million. This figure puts doctoral graduates' lifetime earnings 61% above bachelor's degree-holders' earnings. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data indicates that doctoral graduates enjoy median weekly earnings of $1,883 — nearly double the $969 median weekly wage for all workers.

Best Online Ph.D. and Doctoral Programs

What's the Difference Between a Ph.D. and a Professional Doctoral Degree?

Both Ph.D. and professional doctoral degrees typically require advanced skills in research, writing, and oral defense. Many disciplines offer both Ph.D. and professional degree options. Note key differences between these degree types and choose wisely based on personal preferences, talents, and career goals.

The Ph.D. constitutes a more academic study path focused on theory, data analysis, and original research. Ph.D. programs typically prepare students for academic teaching or research careers by teaching enrollees to evaluate, analyze, and present academic theory and research literature.

Professional doctoral programs such as doctor of business administration (DBA) and doctor of public health (Dr.PH.) focus on research applications for professional practice and usually serve working professionals seeking career advancement.

Ph.D. students usually write dissertations, while professional doctoral students usually complete practical projects such as research studies or problem-solving initiatives at real-world sites.

The Most Popular Types of Doctoral Degrees

NCES data shows that healthcare professionals earn 43.63% of all doctoral degrees — more than twice the number found in law, which boasts the second-highest rate of doctoral degrees at 18.77%. Data from the same source indicates that only 4.47%-6.94% of professionals in the remaining disciplines of education, engineering, and biological sciences hold doctoral degrees. See below for descriptions of some of the most common doctoral degrees, including the Ed.D., Ph.D., and MD.

• Health professions and related programs–43.63%
• Legal professions and studies — 18.77%
• Education — 6.94%
• Engineering and engineering technologies — 5.99%
• Biological and biomedical sciences — 4.47%

Source: NCES

Continue reading for a list of some of the most common doctoral degrees:

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

Many aspiring education administrators, curriculum designers, and other educators interested in developing practical solutions for modern education concerns choose to earn an Ed.D. Common concentrations include higher education leadership, early childhood education, or elementary STEM education.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

Ph.D. programs offer an opportunity for research that students often tailor to their individual interests and career goals. Though different than the Ed.D. degree, Ph.D. concentrations often include a variety of education options, as well as specializations in business, marketing, and public health, among other research fields.

Doctor of Theology (ThD)

The Doctor of Theology offers a research degree comparable to the Ph.D. Optional concentrations often include history of Christianity, world church and world religions, and liturgical studies.

Medicinae Doctorate (MD)

Medical doctors and primary physicians hold an MD in order to practice general medicine in the U.S. Common concentrations include women's reproductive health, integrative medicine, and medical education.

Is an Online Doctorate Degree as Good as an On-Campus Degree?

An increasingly popular education choice, online programs offer academic rigor and reputations similar to on-campus equivalents. Most schools offering both online and on-campus versions of their degree programs award diplomas that do not differentiate between these degree types.

Recent research suggests that online and on-campus learning elicit similar student satisfaction levels. According to a 2016 report generated by The Learning House, Inc. and Aslanian Market ResearchData, nearly 65% of today's online students evidence prior online learning experience.

The same source reports that 90% of college students rate their online education experience as equivalent or better than their on-campus course experiences. The report also indicates that around 70% of students deem their online programs worth the time and financial investment.

The sections below discuss the benefits of online Ph.D. programs, including lower cost and greater attendance flexibility.

Is It Cheaper to Get a Doctoral Degree Online?

Pursuing an online Ph.D. often results in less student debt than on-campus options. Online programs often allow out-of-state students to pay cheaper in-state or online tuition rates, and many schools also waive various university service fees. Online students also save money by avoiding the residency and commuting costs of full-time, on-campus programs. Many homeowners and residents of rural areas who enjoy low living expenses attend online programs without relocating to more expensive urban or suburban areas.

Online doctoral degrees also frequently feature flexible attendance options that enable working professionals to maintain their current income while pursuing an advanced degree. Many online programs permit students to participate during evenings, weekends, or whenever proves convenient. Online students also enjoy equal access to financial aid, including federal grants and loans and university scholarships. The College Board's 2019 report on higher education trends indicates that full-time graduate students receive financial aid averaging $28,140.

How Much Does an Online Ph.D. Program Cost?

The College Board's 2019 report on college pricing indicates that public universities charge a fraction of the tuition and fees found at private nonprofit schools. The following comparative table below highlights the $34,000 difference in average doctoral program pricing between public and private higher education institutions.

Source: College Board

How Long does it Take to Get a Doctorate Degree Online?

Doctoral program length varies widely based on factors including degree type, discipline and field, and student pacing. NCES data from 2018 indicates that doctoral students' median finish time as 7.3 years since starting graduate school and 5.8 years since starting their doctoral programs. This discrepancy suggests that students with transferable graduate work, such as from a master's degree, finish their doctoral programs about 1.5 years faster.

NCES statistics also suggest that time-to-degree varies substantially by discipline of study. Doctoral degrees in physical science, mathematics, computer science, and engineering boast median completion times at least one year faster than social science degrees. Humanities, arts, and education doctoral programs take the longest.

How to Choose an Online Doctoral Degree

After deciding to earn a doctorate online, prospective students select a program. Though online programs generally share many of the same benefits, they often vary in their ability to meet your needs. First, make sure the program you choose fits your career needs, and that it offers preparation for any certification or licensing exams required in your particular area of study.

Some programs require campus visits in combination with online study. In this case, consider your proximity to campus. You may even enjoy certain campus perks, like gym access or tutoring centers, if your program requires you to complete some coursework there. Though all online programs offer flexibility, consider your learning style and what you need from the learning environment. If you are looking to study at your own pace, consider programs that offer asynchronous classes. The price of earning your doctorate online varies depending on whether your program is offered by a nonprofit or for-profit, private or public school.

Is it Better to Attend an Online Doctoral Degree Program in My State?

Your location plays a role in the cost of your online degree. Many schools charge different amounts for in- and out-of-state tuition, for both online and on-campus programs. Even if your online program does not require campus visits, many schools request proof of residence for cheaper in-state rates.

Students should check their own school's residency policies and look for state authorization or a school's State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA), which implements interstate, regional standards of postsecondary courses and programs. Many students prefer to enroll in an online program within their home state to pursue career counseling or other on-campus services.

Many doctoral-level career paths in fields like law or psychology require state licensure as well as a doctoral degree. Licensure requirements include professional experience hours, education credit requirements, and licensure examinations. Doctoral programs for these careers usually include coursework and internship or practicum experiences tailored to fulfill licensure requirements. Many professionals looking to practice in a new state transfer their license by taking advantage of reciprocity agreements maintained between state boards.

Why Accreditation is Key

When researching online doctoral programs, consider institutional and programmatic accreditation standards. The Council of Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) recognizes various regional and national accrediting organizations that evaluate schools' academic quality. Many online schools receive their accreditation from the Distance Education Accrediting Commission .

Institutions and programs undergo the accreditation process voluntarily to ensure academic rigor. Accreditation matters because the federal government only grants federal financial aid to students at accredited schools. Schools also usually only recognize credits and degrees from schools with equivalent or superior accreditation standards.

Consider institutions accredited by CHEA-approved regional accreditors . Degrees from regionally accredited schools garner more respect from peers, other schools, and prospective employers.

High-quality professional programs also hold programmatic accreditation from field-based accrediting agencies recognized by CHEA. Prospective students can consult program websites or the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs to determine accreditation status.

Careers that Require a Doctorate

Most careers requiring a doctoral degree fall into three general arenas: education, research, and healthcare. Aspiring professors and researchers in most nonmedical disciplines usually earn Ph.D. degrees. Ph.D. students often begin teaching and conducting research during graduate school, but candidates typically need their degree in hand to acquire full-time professorships or research positions.

Healthcare professions requiring doctoral degrees include veterinarians, physical therapists, medical doctors, and pharmacy directors. Psychiatrists and psychologists usually need doctoral degrees also. Most doctoral-level healthcare professions also require state licensure.

Professor, Postsecondary/Higher Education : Higher education professors teach undergraduate or graduate courses in their discipline or related disciplines. Aspiring professors typically need to earn terminal degrees in their field to obtain secure, full-time teaching jobs at universities and colleges. According to the BLS, postsecondary teachers made a median annual salary of $79,540 in 2019. The BLS projects job growth at a rate of 11% for 2018-2028.

Senior Research Scientist : Often working in laboratory and/or university environments, senior research scientists focus primarily on conducting research or experiments and gathering, analyzing, and presenting results or findings. PayScale salary data indicates that senior research scientists average $101,244 annually, although salaries depend on employer, field, and industry.

Psychiatrist : These professionals provide consultation and medication to patients struggling with mental health issues and disorders. Psychiatrists hold MD or DO degrees and earn a substantial mean annual wage of $220,380, according to the BLS .

Physical Therapist : Physical therapists assist elderly, injured, and disabled people to manage pain, increase mobility, and improve quality of life. The BLS projects 22% job growth for physical therapists during 2018-2028, and earnings data indicates that these professionals made a median annual salary of $89,440 in 2019. These professionals hold DPT degrees.

Hospital Pharmacy Director : These directors oversee all pharmacy operations. Major responsibilities include staff supervision, compliance assurance, customer service, and decision-making. Hospital pharmacy directors require doctor of pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degrees from accredited schools, plus licenses from their states of practice. PayScale indicates that hospital pharmacy directors average $146,293 annually.

Veterinarian : Often working in private clinics or animal hospitals, veterinarians provide preventative medical care and treatment for animals. Duties include examining, assessing, and testing animals; advising owners and prescribing treatments; and performing surgeries and euthanizations. BLS salary data shows that these professionals earned a median annual salary of $95,460 in 2019.

Applying to a Doctoral Degree Program

The application process for doctoral degree programs typically entails researching potential programs, studying for and taking standardized tests, and submitting application materials. Graduate applications typically require official transcripts, standardized test scores, recommendation letters, and a personal statement or essay. Many graduate programs also require a resume or portfolio, as well as an interview.

Graduate admissions typically prove far more competitive than undergraduate admissions. Invest time to produce high-quality application materials. This helpful guide provides a general overview of the application process and timeline for U.S. graduate schools.

1. Testing : Many doctoral program admissions committees expect applicants to submit graduate-level standardized tests. The graduate record examination (GRE), a commonly required standardized test in the United States and Canada, tests verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. Many programs require students to take the general GRE and a GRE subject test.

Other possible standardized tests include the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), and the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). Try a few practice tests several months in advance of application deadlines, to see whether their scores approach the score minimums stipulated by their prospective doctoral programs.

2. Letters of Recommendation : Doctoral program admissions usually require 2-4 recommendation letters from relevant professors and mentors. Applicants typically approach their recommenders 1-2 months prior to their deadline and make sure that the recommender can write a positive recommendation.

Many applications allow online submission of recommendations. Check in with recommenders regularly to encourage and verify timely submission of the letter.

3. Resume/Portfolio : To assess an applicant's professional accomplishments, most doctoral programs require submission of a resume or curriculum vita and/or a writing sample or portfolio. Ph.D. admissions teams look favorably upon applicants who produce compelling and original master's theses, projects, or similarly competitive achievements.

Meanwhile, demonstrated success and experience in relevant professional roles often improves the prospects of doctoral candidates in disciplines such as business, education, or law.

4. Purpose Statement/Essay : Doctoral programs typically require some kind of purpose statement or essay. At the doctoral application level, a purpose statement outlines the applicant's specific research and professional goals during and after their doctoral program. A clear, focused purpose statement evidences an applicant's ability to direct their own research.

5. Official Transcripts : Most programs require applicants to submit official transcripts from all prior undergraduate and graduate schools attended. Several weeks before your application deadlines, contact each prior institution's registrar's office to fill out and submit a transcript request form (which usually involves a small fee).

Previous schools send official, signed, and sealed copies of your transcripts to whichever prospective programs you specify on your transcript request form. Students submitting applications at the last minute or while still in school often ask prospective schools to accept unofficial transcript copies while waiting for official transcripts to arrive.

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. Take the first step today

Meet top uk universities from the comfort of your home, here’s your new year gift, one app for all your, study abroad needs, start your journey, track your progress, grow with the community and so much more.

Verification Code

An OTP has been sent to your registered mobile no. Please verify

Thanks for your comment !

Our team will review it before it's shown to our readers.

• Online Courses /

Best Universities for Online & Distance Learning PhD in History

• Updated on  
• Aug 7, 2024

Online history PhD degree programs provide excellent options for graduate study in European, North American, global and public comparative history. Those pursuing this degree program can build foundational writing, research, and communication skills. Moreover, they will gain the fundamental training necessary to make a career in teaching , research, government service, public history, a career as a museum director, and several other areas. An online history PhD program is flexible and more affordable. However, there are only a few universities offering this course. Nevertheless, there are several distance learning courses you can enrol in. This blog covers everything you need to know about online history PhD programs.

This Blog Includes:

Liberty university online , university of london, university of leicester , university of york, university of birmingham, university of edinburgh, indira gandhi national open university , admission criteria for an online history phd course , online history phd programs you must know about.

Only two universities offer online history PhD programs. These 100% online programs do not require you to visit the campus. We have included the course fees, duration, and other details.

Liberty University offers one of the leading online history PhD degree programs. The degree program includes 8-week courses that you must complete. The university has the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) accreditation. The course is 100% online, and you can transfer up to 50% of the degree total.  What makes this degree program distinctive from the other online courses is that a Christian worldview of history studies is provided.

Website: https://www.liberty.edu/online/arts-and-sciences/doctoral/history/

Learn how to pursue MPhil in History

You can pursue PhD at the Institute of Historical Research at the University of London . The course is available both online and on-campus in London. You can also choose between a part-time (6-8 years of study) or full-time (4 years of study). By enrolling in this course you can gain access to the Wohl library (access  200,000 history books and periodicals), attend history seminars, and research training programmes, and join a scholarly community.  The curriculum covers topics like Mediaeval British history, History of the First and Second World Wars,  British Commonwealth and British decolonisation, etc.

Website: https://www.sas.ac.uk/postgraduate-study/our-courses/research-degree/phd-institute-historical-research

History PhD Distance Learning Programs 

Apart from the online history PhD programs you can also enrol in a distance learning program. A distance learning course is different from an online degree. An online degree would mean you do not have to visit the campus even once, receive all resources online, and get the degree while sitting at home. On the other hand, as a distance-learning student, you can learn independently and visit the campus to take examinations. Here are some excellent Phd history distance learning programs.

The  University of Leicester offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program. You can learn this distance education course under the guidance of a supervisory team. You will have to complete an independent research project. Both part-time and full-time options are available. For this degree program, you are supposed to conduct active research and complete a writing-up period. After the thesis submission, you will have to clear a viva voice (oral) examination as well.

Website: https://le.ac.uk/study/research-degrees/research-subjects/history

Learn 60 Interesting History Facts

York University does not offer an online history Phd course. However, a distance learning program is available. You can pursue a PhD in history either part-time or full-time. You can complete an independent research project on a topic you like. Moreover, you will receive expert research guidance. You can start the course either in January or September.

Website: https://www.york.ac.uk/history/study/postgraduate-research/phd-history-distance-learning/

The University of Birmingham offers History PhD courses by distance learning. This is a full-time course that you must complete within 3 years. As a student, you will receive research support. For example, you can access the university’s library and other archives, and receive academic research, writing, and career development support. You can also take part in seminars, and workshops and learn from expert instructors. The history department of this university is ranked 8th in the UK. 

Website: https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate/courses/research/history/history#CourseDetailsTab

The University of Edinburgh offers a distance learning program that does not require you to visit the campus! However, you are encouraged to visit Edinburgh to meet their supervisors if it is convenient. The University of Edinburgh offers expertise in several areas of History. These research interest areas are British and Irish history, Mediaeval history, US (American) history, European history, African history, Asian history, and Latin American and Caribbean history. Part-time and full-time options are available. Training and support is available and are provided by two supervisors. 

Website: https://www.ed.ac.uk/studying/postgraduate/degrees/index.php?r=site/view&edition=2024&id=158

The Indira Gandhi National Open University also provides a history PhD in distance learning mode. This is one of the cheapest online history degrees you can find. The course is available both part-time and full-time. You must have secured at least 55% in the Master’s program to take up this course. If you are from non SC/ST/OBC categories you only need 50%. There is no age bar to take this course. UGC recognises this university and you need to clear the entrance examination at a national level to start this course. 

Website: http://www.ignou.ac.in/ignou/aboutignou/school/soss/programmes/detail/91/2

These are some of the best books on Indian history

The following are the admission criteria for an online history PhD course. Note: the requirements can vary depending on the university you are applying to.

• You need to fill in the Online application form 
• Next, you need to provide academic transcripts. You must have secured a minimum of a 3.0 GPA to enrol. (the marks required can differ depending on the university).
• You must have completed a Master’s degree from a recognized university
• Send in any extra academic document required by the university
• Additionally, you must have cleared the TOEFL or IELTS examination .

Liberty University and the University of London offer the best online phd history programs. You can complete the degree program either online or on campus.

IGNOU’s PhD course is the cheapest history degree. However, this is a distance education course and not an online program.

Liberty University offers the best online Phd history programs in the USA. History is taught from a Christian perspective, and you will have to complete 8 courses.

Hope this blog provides you with all the important details. For more information about such courses, visit our online courses page .

Related Articles 

Blessy George

Blessy George is a Content Marketing Associate at Leverage Edu, boasting over a year of experience in the industry. Her expertise lies in crafting compelling content tailored to online courses, making her a go-to source for those navigating the vast landscape of digital learning. In addition to online classes, she writes content related to study abroad, English test preparation and visas. She has completed her MA degree in Political Science and has gained valuable experience as an intern.She is known for her extensive writing on various aspects of international education, garnering recognition for her insights and contributions. Apart from her professional pursuits, Blessy is passionate about creative writing, particularly poetry and songwriting.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Contact no. *

Leaving already?

8 Universities with higher ROI than IITs and IIMs

Grab this one-time opportunity to download this ebook

Connect With Us

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. take the first step today..

Resend OTP in

Need help with?

Study abroad.

UK, Canada, US & More

IELTS, GRE, GMAT & More

Scholarship, Loans & Forex

Country Preference

New Zealand

Which English test are you planning to take?

Which academic test are you planning to take.

Not Sure yet

When are you planning to take the exam?

Already booked my exam slot

Within 2 Months

Want to learn about the test

Which Degree do you wish to pursue?

When do you want to start studying abroad.

January 2024

September 2024

What is your budget to study abroad?

How would you describe this article ?

Please rate this article

We would like to hear more.

Have something on your mind?

Online Distance Learning for a PhD in American History

There is nothing better than a distance learning program for working professionals or non-traditional students. However, there isn’t much variety when it comes to American History programs at the doctoral level. 

Take advantage of two online graduate programs in American history to advance your career.

Table of Contents

Liberty University Offers an Online PhD in History

Through its College of Arts and Science doctoral program in history, Liberty University offers an accredited online learning experience. With 8-week courses and flexible scheduling, this program is suitable for working adults. 

Through an online learning platform, you will network with faculty and other students about American history from a Christian perspective.

In Depth Curriculum Overview

At Liberty University, the PhD in History requires 72 credit hours and is expected to take four years to complete. Besides conducting original research in American history, students will complete online courses in historical professions, public history, and American entrepreneurship. 

In addition to the core curriculum, 18 credit hours will be offered in historical methods, historical research, and historiography. 

Liberty University offers nine specializations and electives specifically in American history so that you can tailor your education to your interests. Reading and dissertation courses will be required prior to completing your program.

Gaining Admission

In order to be accepted into Liberty, you must fill out a program application. Moreover, you will need to submit graduate test scores and transcripts for previous programs. To be considered for admission, you must hold a master’s degree.

Student Reviews

Graduate Programs noted that Liberty’s graduate programs were affordable and military friendly. Current students gave Liberty’s graduate programs a 96% approval rating out of 461 reviews. As well as achieving high marks for quality of instruction, Liberty also received high marks for student satisfaction with their degree. 

In her comments, Gwynnedolynne James noted that the school provided “great benefits for graduate students like myself who have families, full-time jobs, and participate in community events.” Students who have busy schedules can still succeed with LUO’s 100% online degree programs.”

Arizona State University Offers a Hybrid PhD in History

Listed 69th by U.S. News & World Report, the School of Historical, Philosophical and Religious Studies offers a hybrid PhD in History. On-campus and online courses are offered in a hybrid program.

Areas of Concentration

It is possible for American history students to concentrate in North American or U.S. There are three concentration options available. Both thematic and geographical fields of study are covered by these concentrations, or fields. Concentrations in U.S. history, indigenous peoples, and politics and policy, for example, could be included in a U.S. history program. 

The concentration is guided by a close relationship with faculty. On campus visits and coursework will be required as part of the relationship with faculty and mentoring.

Examining the Curriculum

The program requires you to complete 84 credits in order to graduate. There are three types of credits: core, research, and electives. In the core courses, you will study history methodology and global history in depth. In your concentration, you will study the American experience, race and culture, religion, migration, and North American cultural landscapes. 

In addition to the dissertation, seminar, and research required for your degree, you’ll also complete a seminar.

You must complete the online application to be considered for the program. Aside from filling out the application, the school also requires GRE scores, references, a writing sample, and a statement of purpose. The transcripts showing that you have completed a master’s program must also be submitted.

What Students Say

ASU’s graduate history program has few reviews, but you can find reviews about its graduate program experience. Graduate Programs reports that ASU has a 97% student recommendation rate. Students praise the faculty’s helpfulness and excellent support for online learners.

Lack of Online Ph.D. in History Programs

It can be difficult to find PhD programs in American History via distance education. The most common route to completing your dissertation and research is to enroll in an on-campus program due to the connection you need with faculty. 

There are, however, hybrid and online programs such as those offered at Liberty and ASU that provide you with the flexibility to complete your coursework when it is convenient for you. 

whether you complete an online or on-campus program with online courses, be sure to research your program to make sure you are getting the best value for your money.

Discover a wealth of study resources designed specifically for law students at Oxbridge Notes . Our platform offers a comprehensive collection of notes, essays, and revision materials covering a diverse range of legal topics. Curated by top students and academics, these resources are invaluable tools for exam preparation and academic success.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

History and Education PhD

Doctor of philosophy in history & education.

Admissions Information

Displaying requirements for the Spring 2025, Summer 2025, and Fall 2025 terms.

Doctor of Philosophy

• Points/Credits: 75
• Entry Terms: Fall
• Enrollment Formats: Full-Time

Application Deadlines

Select programs remain open beyond our standard application deadlines , such as those with an extended deadline or those that are rolling (open until June or July). If your program is rolling or has an extended deadline indicated above, applications are reviewed as they are received and on a space-available basis. We recommend you complete your application as soon as possible as these programs can close earlier if full capacity has been met.

Application Requirements

Requirements from the TC Catalog (AY 2023-2024)

Displaying catalog information for the Fall 2023, Spring 2024 and Summer 2024 terms.

View Full Catalog Listing

The Doctor of Philosophy degree requires 75 points, including demonstrated proficiency in two foreign languages. The Ph.D. degree program emphasizes historical research in education. Candidates should be in touch with the Office of Doctoral Studies to be certain of complying with the latest procedures, deadlines, and documents.

• View Other Degrees

Program Director : Thomas James

Box: Box 11

Teachers College, Columbia University 334-E Horace Mann

Program Manager: Imani Collins

Phone: (212) 678-3751

Email: ic2683@tc.columbia.edu

Classics Graduate Distance Learning Program

Distance learning ph.d. degrees.

The Department of Classics offers two tracks leading to the PhD degree:

• Ph.D. in Latin and Roman Studies
• Ph.D. in Classical Civilization

1. Ph.D. in Latin and Roman Studies

This program is designed for high school teachers and community college teachers who wish to improve their skills, prepare for serious research, and improve their credentials with a special emphasis in Latin literature and Roman history.

Ninety credit hours beyond the bachelor degree, including:

• Latin prose composition (3 hours)
• 6 seminars in Classical Civilization or Latin (i.e., 18 credits of coursework in classes other than independent or direct study)
• Participation in at least three Summer Latin Institutes  [including an SLI research paper for each]

Additional credit hours may be earned through additional seminars and elective coursework, independent study projects (including those leading to examinations), advanced research (LNW 7979), and dissertation research (LNW 7980).

Application for credit for previous graduate coursework in other departments or at other institutions must be submitted before the beginning of the third semester of doctoral study. No more than 30 credits of a master’s degree from another institution may be transferred to a doctoral program.

Examinations and Dissertation

• Written examinations (as specified below)
• Prospectus defense [also counts as preliminary oral examination]
• Dissertation
• Final examination and public defense of the dissertation

Written Examinations in Latin and Roman Studies

(i) Comprehensive Latin reading examination (based on PhD reading list; scroll down Reading Lists page ). A three-hour examination in Latin. The examination will present the student with six passages (three in prose, three in poetry) selected from the reading list. The student will translate four of the six passages. Any student who fails to pass this exam on the third attempt is subject to dismissal from the program.

(ii) Comprehensive examination on the history of Latin literature in its historical context . A two-hour examination on all aspects of the development and history of Latin literature. The student will write essays on literary topics, placing authors, works, or genres in their historical contexts, and explain the historical and social significance of their writings. Any student who fails to pass this exam on the third attempt is subject to dismissal from the program. Gian Biagio Conte’s History of Latin Literature is the primary reference book for this exam.

(iii) Special topic . A two-hour examination or a 15-25 page paper on the work of an author or on a literary or historical topic studied in depth under the direction of a Classics faculty member. Any student who fails to pass this exam on the third attempt is subject to dismissal from the program.

(iv-v) Modern Language Proficiency . Students are required to demonstrate reading proficiency in German, plus one of the two of the following languages: French, Italian. This requirement may be satisfied either by approved coursework or reading examination.

N.B.: These exams may be taken at UF or at a remote location, under the supervision of an approved proctor. Ideally, students will complete them by the summer of their fourth year, but we understand and expect that the exact scheduling of these exams will vary, depending on each student’s goals.

A student who has completed all coursework requirements and passed all written exams must successfully present a dissertation prospectus before a supervisory committee, consisting of a chair and three other members, one of whom must be in a field outside of Classics. In accordance with university regulation, the student is required to be on campus for the prospectus defense.

Dissertation and Final Examination

Each doctoral candidate must prepare and present a completed dissertation that shows independent investigation and that is acceptable in form and content to the supervisory committee and to the Graduate School. The work must be of publishable quality and must be in a form suitable for publication, using the Graduate School’s format requirements. The dissertation defense [which counts as the final examination] takes place in a forum open to the public, after the dissertation has been submitted to the supervisory committee, and should be announced at least two weeks prior to its scheduled date. In accordance with university regulation, the student is required to be on campus for the dissertation defense.

2. Ph.D. in Classical Civilization

This program is designed for high school teachers and community college teachers who wish to improve their skills, prepare for serious research, and improve their credentials with a more general emphasis in classical civilization.

Ninety credit hours beyond the bachelor’s degree, including:

• Participation in at least three Summer Latin Institutes
• Comprehensive preliminary oral examination and prospectus defense

Written Examinations in Classical Civilization

(i) Comprehensive examination on Latin reading and the history of Latin literature. Comprehensive examination on Latin reading and the history of Latin literature. A four-hour examination, including translation of three out of four passages (two prose, two poetry), selected from the PhD reading list [scroll down Reading Lists page ]. (These passages will be shorter than the ones on the Latin and Roman Studies Latin reading examination.) The examination will also include questions on all aspects of the development and history of Latin literature. Students should be able to identify, date, and describe the work of all major authors from Plautus to Augustine. Factual knowledge will be tested through identification questions and short answer. Longer essays on literary issues or topics requiring the student to place authors, works, or genres in historical context will also be included.  Gian Biagio Conte’s History of Latin Literature is the primary reference book for the essay portion of the exam. Any student who fails to pass this exam on the third attempt is subject to dismissal from the program.

(ii) Special topic 1 . A two-hour examination or a 15-25 page paper on the work of an author or on a literary or historical topic studied in depth under the direction of a Classics faculty member. Any student who fails to pass this exam on the third attempt is subject to dismissal from the program.

(iii) Special topic 2 . A two-hour examination or a 15-25 page paper on the work of an author or on a literary or historical topic studied in depth under the direction of a Classics faculty member. Any student who fails to pass this exam on the third attempt is subject to dismissal from the program.

(iv-v) Modern language proficiency requirement. Students are required to demonstrate reading proficiency in German, plus one of the following languages: French, Italian. This requirement may be satisified either by approved coursework or reading examination.N.B.: These exams may be taken at UF or at a remote location, under the supervision of an approved proctor. Ideally, students will complete them by the summer of their fourth year, but we understand and expect that the exact scheduling of these exams will vary, depending on each student’s  goals.

A student who has completed all coursework requirements and passed all written exams must successfully present a dissertation prospectus and pass a preliminary oral examination conducted by a supervisory committee, consisting of a chair and three other members, one of whom must be in a field outside of Classics. In accordance with university regulation, the student is required to be on campus for the preliminary oral exam.

Each doctoral candidate must prepare and present a completed dissertation that shows independent investigation and that is acceptable in form and content to the supervisory committee and to the Graduate School. The work must be of publishable quality and must be in a form suitable for publication, using the Graduate School’s format requirements. The final examination takes place in a forum open to the public, after the dissertation has been submitted to the supervisory committee, and should be announced at least two weeks prior to its scheduled date. In accordance with university regulation, the student is required to be on campus for the final exam.

>> Back to Distance Learning Program Home

• Engineering & Technology
• Science & Humanities
• Agricultural Sciences
• Distance Education
• Online Education

Medicine & Health Sciences

• Physiotherapy
• Occupational Therapy
• Public Health

Programme Finder

• quick links:
• Departments A-Z
• Publications
• Achievements
• Staff / Faculty
• Visiting Foreign Faculty
• Directorate of Research
• Recent Projects
• Research Highlights
• Research Council
• Research Day
• Awards and Recognition

Academic Research

• Ph.D Awarded

Area of Research

• Thrust area

Funded Research

• Sponsored Projects

Central Research Laboratories and Facilities

• SRM DBT Platform
• Medical Research Center
• Center for Statistics
• Earthquake Research Cell

Collaboration

• Industry Connect
• Multi-disciplinary Research

Innovation Hub

• Innovation & Incubation
• Directorate of Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Central Facilities Geo-tagged Photographs and Videos

Call for Proposals

• Nanotechnology Research
• Regulations & Forms
• Research Day 2024

Life at SRM

• Art and Culture
• Tamil Perayam
• Facilities & Operations
• SRM Muthucharam
• Public Service

Student Life

• Holistic Development
• Enjoyable Green Campus
• Student Affairs
• Student Counselling
• Community Centers
• Anti-Ragging
• Anti-Discrimination
• Religious Life
• Equal Opportunity Cell

Housing & Residental

• Accommodation
• Girls Hostel
• Boys Hostel

International Hostel

• How to Apply
• Dining & Eateries
• Safety & Security

• Sports & Fitness Events
• Grievance Redressal
• Anti-ragging Committee

International Relations at SRM

• International Advisory Board

Global Exposure

• Outward Mobility
• Inward Mobility / Exchange
• Networking & Alliances

Study Abroad

• Semester Abroad Programme
• Dual Degree Programme
• Twining Programme
• Study at SRM / Exchange
• Global Immersion Programme

Admission International​

• International Alumni Network
• International Events
• International News

SRM in Focus

• Accreditations & Rankings
• Awards & Recognition
• Apex Leadership
• Administrative Heads
• Academic Heads

Organisation

• Alumni Affairs
• Communications
• Controller of Examinations
• Career Centre
• Campus Life
• Campus Administration
• Learning & Development
• International Relations
• Internal Quality Assurance Cell

cultural events

youth festival

Contact SRMIST

• Quick Links:
• Virtual Tour 360°
• Student Achievements
• Announcements
• latest News
• Directorate of Online and Distance Education (DODE)

The Directorate of Online and Distance Education (DODE) at SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST) is dedicated to providing students with flexible and accessible learning opportunities. Through innovative online platforms and distance learning methodologies, DODE offers a wide range of programs that cater to the diverse needs of learners across the globe.

Our mission is to extend SRMIST’s academic excellence to those who seek quality education beyond traditional classroom settings. With a robust curriculum designed by industry experts and experienced faculty, we ensure that students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing them for successful careers in their chosen fields.

Dr. Manoranjan Pon. Ram

Director - directorate of online and distance education (dode).

Dr. Manoranjan Pon. Ram is an eminent professional and educationist who has been modernizing and revitalizing the digital facet of higher education. In his career span of over 24 years, he has been associated with various government universities PAN India projects, to develop LMS compatible Interactive learning audio-visual materials, student engagement strategies, online assessment and content delivery system. He is an evangelist of Flipped Learning pedagogy and has done extensive research on Flipped Classroom model and Blended mode of learning.

Author is another adjective used for this former member of editorial boards of various leading journals who has eight edited books on Management and IT to his credit.

On the educational front, Dr. Manoranjan Pon. Ram has achieved diverse academic qualifications such as Bachelor’s degree in Engineering and Post-Graduation in Management with a doctorate in E-Commerce makes a strategic combination of Management and Information Technology. He has received the prestigious awards such as “Rastriya Gaurav Award”, “Certificate of Excellence” from honorable Dr. Bhima Narain Singh – former Governor of Tamil Nadu & Assam for meritorious service in Management and IT Education and “Udyog Shiksha Sahyog Puruskar”.

SRM NCC Enrollment for 2024-25

SRMIST Shines with Multiple Gold at the 78th State Aquatic Championship!

Enjoy your Student Life & Excel at SRM

Group institutions.

• SRM University - AP (Andhra Pradesh)
• SRM University - Haryana
• SRM University - Sikkim
• Campus Tour
• How to Reach

Admissions & Aid

• Scholarships
• Admission India
• Admission International

Colleges @ SRMIST KTR

• Engineering & Technology
• Medical & Health Sciences
• Science & Humanities
• Hotel Management

A to Z - Quicklinks

• Departments
• Faculty Search
• Weather @ SRM

Anti-Ragging Committee

Value education cell, internal quality assurance cell [iqac].

• Innovation & Incubation Center
• Student Clubs
• Researgence

Public Disclosure

• Mandatory Disclosures
• SSR - 4th Cycle
• List of Programs in IIQA
• Regulatory Approvals 2021-22
• Regulatory Approvals 2022-23
• Regulatory Approvals 2023-24

Media & Resources

• Press & Media
• Find a Person
• Faculty & Staffs
• Kattankulathur - Chennai
• Ramapuram - Chennai
• Vadapalani - Chennai
• Tiruchirappalli
• Delhi - NCR
• +91 44 27417000
• +91 44 27417777
• +080 69087000
• [email protected]

Virtual Tour

Community radio.

• MBBS Admission 2024-2025
• SRMJEEE UG 2024 Phase II : E-Counselling Manual
• SRMJEEM MBA Application Form
• MDS Counseling Schedule - 2024
• Science and Humanities UG / PG 2024 Applications Open
• Health Science UG / PG / POST PG 2024 Applications Open
• School of Law 5 Year Integrated UG / LLB / PG Programs Applications Open

Earning a PhD Your Way: How to Choose the Right Online Learning Format

Synchronous vs. asynchronous learning? Full-time vs. part-time? For PhD students, choosing the right learning modes can determine their level of success. Selecting the right online learning format can help you stay engaged and motivated while also giving you access to the resources you need. Let’s pinpoint the correct options for you.

• Delivery Mode
• Online or In-Person
• Program Length
• Ask Yourself . . .

Related Pages

Find your school in just 60 seconds

Find Your School in 3 Easy Steps

• Take our quiz
• Match with schools
• Connect with favorites

Have you decided to pursue your PhD online? Congratulations! You’ve taken the first step toward earning your doctorate. According to the latest figures from the U.S. Census, only 13.1% of Americans hold an advanced degree, so you’ll be in exclusive company.

However, before you start sending out applications, you’ll want to consider which type of learning format will work best for you. While synchronous learning allows you to collaborate with classmates, it keeps you tied to a schedule. Meanwhile, an asynchronous program is more flexible but also more isolating. Or you can choose a hybrid approach, which combines the convenience of online learning with the resources of a classroom — but will require you to live within commuting distance from campus.

Sound like a lot? It’s a big decision, so let’s break down the pros and cons of each to determine which program best suits your needs. Read on to learn more about choosing the right learning format for your online PhD.

Programs that might interest you:

Step 1: Select Your Delivery Mode

What is a delivery mode? Also called a learning mode, this refers to how students engage with the educational materials in their program, particularly classwork. For online and/or hybrid PhDs, you’ll have a few different options to consider.

Within online PhD programs, students can often choose between synchronous, asynchronous, and self-directed modes. Keep in mind that the delivery type largely refers to classwork and short assignments. One major component of a PhD — original research — typically takes the form of a dissertation or thesis and often requires you to travel to campus to complete it.

Let’s explore the different delivery modes below. 

Synchronous

Synchronous learning — where students learn together — is one of the most popular delivery modes for online education, including at the PhD level.

Many highly regarded online PhD programs use synchronous online coursework, like the online Doctor of Education (EdD) at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. The University of Southern Mississippi also offers synchronous delivery modes for several of its online degree programs, creating this handy side-by-side comparison to help you choose your optimal learning environment.

Advantages and Disadvantages

There are several advantages to a synchronous learning program for your online PhD. Synchronous learning allows you to ask questions and get answers in real-time, giving you the opportunity to build community with your fellow students, form study groups, and build friendships within your program.

However, synchronous learning operates on a strict time schedule, meaning that students will need to be available at specific times each day for classes, with little flexibility.

Who is Best Suited for This Option?

Extroverted students who thrive on collaborative work with others are well-suited to a synchronous PhD program. Students who like structure and do well when they know the expectations of their program will also thrive under the well-defined terms of a synchronous system.

Finally, if you want to interact with your professors and build a community with fellow students — but prefer online learning — an online synchronous program is more likely to meet your needs.

Best Practices for Synchronous PhD Students

If you’re a PhD student in an online synchronous program, maintain a calendar (you can use a convenient phone app ) so you don’t miss a class or study session. Also, feel free to reach out to your classmates with any questions about the material, to talk about potential thesis projects, or to form a study group before exams.

Asynchronous

Asynchronous online PhD programs — where individuals learn at different times and spaces — are popular at schools where the student body is likely to be employed throughout their graduate studies. The University of North Dakota’s online Teaching PhD offers asynchronous classes to help students balance their studies with work or family responsibilities. Similarly, the University of Idaho provides asynchronous classes for most of its online master’s and doctoral programs.

Asynchronous classes are flexible, meaning that you can study when you’re at your sharpest, whether you’re an early bird or a night owl. An asynchronous format also allows you to adapt your course schedule in light of any changes in your personal circumstances.

However, asynchronous classes can be isolating. Because the lectures are pre-recorded, students can’t ask questions in real-time, and you’ll have less contact with your professors. Students in an asynchronous program may also have a harder time connecting with each other as they aren’t in class simultaneously.

Asynchronous PhD programs are ideal for highly motivated students with busy lives. The asynchronous format means that students don’t have to keep to their professors’ class schedules and can complete lectures and coursework independently. This is especially useful for students who have full-time job or other responsibilities that may affect their daily schedules. 

Students who find it distracting to have a busy lecture full of interruptions may also enjoy the pre-recorded nature of asynchronous classes.

Best Practices for Asynchronous PhD Students

If you’re starting an asynchronous PhD program, make sure you have a support system of friends and/or fellow students in place to prevent loneliness. You should also be aware of your personal time preferences and study habits; that way, you can take advantage of your own peaks in energy/attention when deciding to watch lectures and do your coursework.

Self-directed

Self-directed online PhD programs, also referred to as self-paced study, are common in several fields. You’ll mostly find these programs in social science or technology degree options, where the study is not dependent on conducting experiments in a lab or field setting. 

In the world of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) subjects, one technology-based PhD option is Bowling Green State University’s PhD in Technology Management . This is a self-directed online program geared toward employed students.

Self-directed PhDs are as flexible as they come, both in terms of time management and the freedom the program gives you to explore your subject. Not only will you be setting your own schedule, but you’ll also have the chance to explore and research whatever facets of your field you find most engaging.

However, self-directed programs can feel unstructured and daunting, especially for students who are used to a highly structured learning environment. A self-directed program can also feel lonely since you will only have little contact with professors and classmates during your studies.

Who is Best Suited for This Option

For self-motivated, highly disciplined students with a lot of self-knowledge about their own learning styles, self-directed doctoral programs can be a great fit. Students with a lot of prior experience in their field of study, such as those returning for a PhD after working in the field for several years, may also appreciate a self-directed program and how it allows you to follow your own research interests early on in your studies.

Best Practices for Self-directed PhD Students

If you’re looking to start a self-directed online PhD soon, be sure to plan ahead. Since you’ll be structuring your program yourself, be sure to have an outline of what you want your doctoral journey to look like before your first term starts.

Step 2: Choose In-person, Online, or Hybrid

One of the most materially important aspects of choosing a PhD program is whether you’ll be studying in person, online, or in a hybrid program. In addition to considering your personal learning style, you’ll need to take into account practical concerns, including location, finances, and any personal commitments outside of your studies. Below are some of the pros and cons of each learning environment.

Online PhD programs are convenient ways to earn a doctorate from the institution of your choice without having to relocate. In a fully online PhD program, you’ll take your classes over Zoom or a similar video chat service and submit assignments (and eventually your thesis) online.

Many prestigious universities offer online PhD programs in a variety of disciplines. The University of Florida, for instance, offers fully online PhD programs in fields ranging from Educational Leadership (EdD) and Classical Civilization (PhD) to Nursing Practice (DNP) .

Advantages and Disadvantages in Your Doctoral Studies

One of the biggest advantages of an online PhD program is convenience. You’ll be able to take your classes from any physical location you like, which makes it easier to balance your studies around work and family responsibilities.

On the other hand, you might find that your professors and fellow students are less accessible in an online program. Depending on the course of study and the specifics of your thesis project or dissertation, it may also be a challenge to complete your program without access to labs, research groups, academic libraries and archives, and other resources a campus setting provides.

Hybrid PhD programs aim to provide the convenience and flexibility of an online program with the resources and sense of community of an in-person degree. Hybrid PhD programs are also useful for programs that can be largely completed through distance learning but have some practical requirements, like Nova Southeastern University’s Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) program or George Washington University’s Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) .

Hybrid PhD programs are ideal for combining the practical advantages of pursuing an online degree with the resources a physical campus can provide. If you enroll in a hybrid PhD program, you’ll have access to campus, any practical courses your PhD requires, and in-person interaction with professors and fellow students while still being able to take most of your courses from the comfort of your own home.

However, many disadvantages of an in-person degree are also relevant in a hybrid program. In particular, depending on the location of your campus, you will need to be within a reasonable distance from the university, which may require an expensive and disruptive move.

We do need to mention the availability of in-person degree programs for those who find that online or hybrid options aren’t for them. In-person PhD programs are the oldest and most traditional way to earn a doctorate. These programs are centered around taking classes on campus and conducting your original research through campus resources, including libraries, archives, and labs.

Most campus-based universities offer in-person PhD programs, and these are particularly valuable for subjects with fieldwork or laboratory requirements, like Yale University’s PhD program in Chemistry . Programs that require the library and archival access, like the PhD in History at the University of Pennsylvania, may also benefit from being held in person.

In-person PhD programs offer all the traditional advantages of studying on campus and being part of an academic community. Studying on campus will provide you with access to all of your university’s physical resources — from libraries, archives, and labs to social events and other opportunities to connect with classmates and professors.

However, in-person PhDs can require a major upheaval in students’ lives. Depending on your university’s location, you may need to move to cities or even states, which can be inconvenient and expensive. Further, you will need to follow the external schedule and structure of the program, which can conflict with other responsibilities in your life.

Step 3: How Much Time Do You Want to Invest in Your PhD?

Now that you’ve been able to think about your educational style and program location, it’s time to talk about pacing. As terminal degrees, PhDs are notoriously lengthy — some can take the better part of a decade. You’ll need to consider how much time you can commit to your studies each year and the length of your degree. Fortunately, you’ll have a few options available, which are outlined below.

Full-time PhD programs, including online and hybrid programs, are designed to be intensive and finish relatively quickly. For example, George Washington University’s full-time online PhD in Systems Engineering is designed to be completed in only three years from start to thesis defense.

Full-time PhD studies allow you to devote as much of your energy as possible to your degree. They are also typically quicker to earn than a part-time degree, making them ideal for students who want to earn their doctoral qualification as fast as possible. However, for students with a job or other commitments, full-time study can be extremely difficult to balance with personal or professional responsibilities.

Part-time PhD programs are meant to require fewer classes and study time per week and are completed over a longer time period. Johns Hopkins University offers a part-time, online program to earn a PhD in Public Health , where students have up to nine years to complete their studies and have space to work full-time while studying. The program also features intensive, week-long on-site courses in June and January.

Part-time PhD programs are great for busy students, such as those with full-time employment or family responsibilities. The low time commitment per week makes your studies easier to fit into your schedule. However, it will take you longer to graduate, and some students may find it harder to focus and devote sufficient energy to part-time studies.

Considering an Online PhD? Ask These Questions

Still unsure whether an online, hybrid, or in-person PhD program would be the best fit for you? While looking at the programs and modes of delivery can be very helpful, you’ll also need to think about your own personal, educational, and financial needs and circumstances. Below are a few questions to consider as you’re making your decision.

How can understanding your best learning style help you while you get your PhD online?

Your learning style can affect how you focus on your online classes and what kind of delivery mode is best suited for you. For instance, students who have a particular time of day when they focus best, like evenings or early mornings, may benefit from the flexibility of an asynchronous program. On the other hand, highly extroverted students who learn best in collaborative formats may prefer synchronous online classes where they can interact with professors and classmates.

What is the level of interaction with faculty and other students in the online PhD program?

Online PhD programs can vary widely in how much interaction with your professors and fellow students they offer. Hybrid programs, including many in nursing and other sciences, will offer opportunities to meet with classmates and professors in person, while synchronous online classes will have opportunities to connect virtually. On the other hand, fully online asynchronous or self-directed programs may offer very little contact with faculty and other students.

What would be the expected time commitment for the online PhD program, and how will it fit with your other commitments, such as work or family?

Your time commitment and how your online PhD will fit into your pre-existing schedule will depend heavily on the program you choose. Some programs, depending on delivery mode, offer more flexibility than others. Further, while full-time studies require a significant time commitment each week over a shorter period, a part-time PhD only requires a few hours of work each week over a longer overall period.

Will you miss an essential part of your studies if you go online over another mode of learning?

Accredited online PhD programs are recognized as legitimate for a reason — because they fulfill all the requirements of earning a PhD and have met standards set forth by accrediting bodies. However, depending on your learning style, you may want to consider what you’ll get from an online PhD program. For instance, students who value building community with fellow students and academics may struggle more with fully online programs, while students who value the freedom to learn at their own pace may find an online program ideal.

How can you balance flexibility and self-directed learning with structured coursework and accountability?

If you are choosing a highly flexible program, such as an asynchronous or self-directed PhD, you should plan ahead to stay accountable and on top of your studies. You can use a calendar, self-impose deadlines for program milestones, and ask fellow students or loved ones to serve as accountability partners to make sure you don’t fall behind in your studies.

How can online learning affect your financial planning?

Financially, online learning can be a pro and con compared to on-campus study. On the one hand, you’ll be saving a lot of money by not having to relocate for your studies, and you can continue to work while you complete your doctorate. However, you should research the financial aid opportunities available for the online programs you’re considering and how they compare to funding opportunities for in-person PhD programs. Since some in-person programs offer more stipends or work opportunities, you may find more financial aid offered for some in-person PhD programs.

The Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Doctoral Student’s Success Guide

January 30, 2024

Best Part-Time PhD and Doctoral Programs (Online & Campus)

April 10, 2023

How to Choose a Doctoral Program: A Step-by-Step Guide

June 28, 2023

MPhil in History (Intellectual History)

• Entry Requirements
• Funding and Costs
• College Preference
• How to Apply

About the course

The Intellectual History strand of the MPhil in History takes an interdisciplinary approach, with a chronological and global reach. 

The MPhil in History has a sustained period devoted to archival research and writing, and is designed to give you a thorough training in historical research, improve your ability to conceptualise and engage with historical problems, and enlarge your understanding of the historical and historiographical context in which your own research is set. All strands of the MPhil can serve as either free-standing graduate qualifications, or as a springboard to doctoral study. Students wishing to proceed to doctoral study will be encouraged to develop their doctoral proposals during the first few months of the second year. Skills training and option-choice are flexible and open-ended, to allow you to gain the knowledge and training needed to complete your research project. 

You will have the opportunity to study thinkers and ideas from the fourth to the twenty-first centuries, in diverse transnational geographical contexts. The course is designed to encourage you to work in and between areas such as Global Intellectual History, the History of Scholarship, the History of Science, the History of Art, Historiography and the History of Political Ideas. Oxford is home to one of the largest communities of intellectual historians in the world, with expertise in every major area of Intellectual History, supported by world-class resources. Further information about Intellectual History research and activities can be found through the faculty website. All graduate students are encouraged to engage with the faculty’s lively research culture of seminars, workshops, and discussions groups . There’s something happening nearly every day of the week and sessions often involve leading international scholars. The faculty also runs the Oxford History Graduate Network , which fosters conversation and collaboration between graduate students. Interdisciplinary activities are available through The Oxford Centre for Research in the Humanities (TORCH) .

Course structure

You will take three compulsory core papers and two optional papers, as well as undertake an original research project. There is also a research masterclass, which is not assessed. This structure gives access to a wide range of both general and specialised training within the field of history.

Core courses

1. Sources and Historiography

This is a weekly 1.5 hour seminar in Michaelmas term of the first year (with MSt students in the same strand). It will introduce you to the philosophical background and methodological approaches to Intellectual History. You will study a combination of key thinkers for example, Michel Foucault, Arthur Lovejoy, and Quentin Skinner, along with new approaches to the discipline such as comparative, feminist and global intellectual history.

2. Theory and Methods

The format is a 1.5 hour weekly seminar in Michaelmas term of the first year (with MSt students in the same strand). It will cover current methodological and theoretical approaches. Students and course tutors will choose six of these from a syllabus of nine. 

3. Writing History

This is a weekly class in Trinity term of the first year exclusively for MPhil students, with all MPhil students taught in one or two classes. The classes range widely across history and involve critical reading and thinking about published work.

4. Research Master Class

Taught in weekly classes in Michaelmas term of the second year, during which students present and receive feedback on their work. 

Optional subject course

A free choice of the options on offer taught in six weekly classes during Hilary term of the first and second year.  Options of particular interest to Intellectual history include:

• Selfhood in History: 1500 to the present
• The Twelfth Century Renaissance
• The Dawn of the Global World, 1450-1800: Ideas, Objects, Connections
• Creating the Commonwealth: Politics and Religion in Grotius, Hobbes and Locke
• The Enlightenment, c.1680-1800: Ideas and the Public Sphere.

More information on options is available through the faculty website. Not every optional subject listed may be on offer every year.

Research Project

You will work on original research project throughout both years, under the guidance of your supervisor. You are expected to commit the summer vacation between the two years and the Michaelmas term of the second year to archival research.

Skills Provision

Additional lectures, classes, and tutorials take place in Michaelmas and Hilary terms to provide general and specific training. You will discuss what training you need to undertake your research project with your supervisor. Training available includes document and object handling, palaeography, oral history, text analysis software, GIS software, and statistical analysis.  Language training is also available, with the Faculty organising special courses for historians in French, German, Spanish, and Italian. Other modern language courses are available through the University’s Language Centre. Courses in Latin and other medieval languages are also available. Further details on language learning can be found on the faculty website.

The course is full-time and requires attendance in Oxford. Full-time students are subject to the University's Residence requirements.

Resources to support your study

As a graduate student, you will have access to the University's wide range of world-class resources including libraries, museums, galleries, digital resources and IT services.

The Bodleian Libraries is the largest library system in the UK. It includes the main Bodleian Library and libraries across Oxford, including major research libraries and faculty, department and institute libraries. Together, the Libraries hold more than 13 million printed items, provide access to e-journals, and contain outstanding special collections including rare books and manuscripts, classical papyri, maps, music, art and printed ephemera.

The University's IT Services is available to all students to support with core university IT systems and tools, as well as many other services and facilities. IT Services also offers a range of IT learning courses for students, to support with learning and research.

You will be able to draw on the specialist resources offered by the Bodleian History Faculty Library which provides dedicated support and training courses for all graduates. You can also access the many college libraries and college archives which house significant collections of personal papers as well as institutional records dating back to the middle ages.

Supervision

The allocation of graduate supervision for this course is the responsibility of the Faculty of History and it is not always possible to accommodate the preferences of incoming graduate students to work with a particular member of staff. Offers will only be made if appropriate supervision is available.

It is usual practice that MPhil students have one supervisor, but a co-supervisor will be appointed if additional specialist knowledge is required. One supervisor must be a member of the Faculty of History, but a co-supervisor can be appointed from a different department.

Your supervisor(s) is there to provide advice, guidance, and support throughout. You should arrange to meet your supervisor(s) early in your first term to establish a clear framework for your research and writing, and identify any skills training needed to undertake your research. There is no set timetable for the frequency of future meetings, but it is recommended that you arrange to meet your supervisor several times each term, to discuss progress of your research and writing. You should also agree a timetable for the submission and return of drafts of your dissertation.

If you contact a potential supervisor prior to submitting your application, any indication made by an academic that they may be willing to supervise a potential project, is not a guarantee that you will be offered a place, or that the supervisor in question has capacity to supervise you in that particular year.

The Sources and Historiography and the Theory and Methods core courses are examined by an assessed essay submitted at the end of Michaelmas term of year one. You must also submit an annotated bibliography and dissertation proposal at this time. The optional subjects will be examined according to the regulations governing the course, which could be by assessed essay or by examination, at the end of Hilary term in years one and two. The Writing History core course is examined by an assessed essay submitted at the end of Trinity term of year one.  The research project is examined by a 30,000-word dissertation that is submitted in week six of Trinity term of year two.

Graduate destinations

About a quarter of master’s students proceed to doctoral work at Oxford; others continue academic study at other institutions. Other career destinations are as diverse as, but broadly in line with, undergraduate history career destinations: law, finance, management consultancy, civil service etc.

Changes to this course and your supervision

The University will seek to deliver this course in accordance with the description set out in this course page. However, there may be situations in which it is desirable or necessary for the University to make changes in course provision, either before or after registration. The safety of students, staff and visitors is paramount and major changes to delivery or services may have to be made if a pandemic, epidemic or local health emergency occurs. In addition, in certain circumstances, for example due to visa difficulties or because the health needs of students cannot be met, it may be necessary to make adjustments to course requirements for international study.

Where possible your academic supervisor will not change for the duration of your course. However, it may be necessary to assign a new academic supervisor during the course of study or before registration for reasons which might include illness, sabbatical leave, parental leave or change in employment.

For further information please see our page on changes to courses and the provisions of the student contract regarding changes to courses.

Entry requirements for entry in 2025-26

Proven and potential academic excellence.

The requirements described below are specific to this course and apply only in the year of entry that is shown. You can use our interactive tool to help you  evaluate whether your application is likely to be competitive .

Please be aware that any studentships that are linked to this course may have different or additional requirements and you should read any studentship information carefully before applying. 

Degree-level qualifications

As a minimum, applicants should hold or be predicted to achieve the following UK qualifications or their equivalent:

• a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours (a minimum of 68% overall and 68% for the dissertation) in a relevant discipline in the humanities or social sciences.

For applicants with a bachelor's degree from the USA, the minimum overall GPA that is normally required to meet the undergraduate-level requirement is 3.6 out of 4.0. However, successful candidates normally have a GPA of 3.75 or higher.

Applicants are not expected to have a previous degree in history, but are expected to have experience of working historically. You will need to ensure that you link your proposed dissertation topic with your previous expertise, explain why you want to switch to study history, and show that you have already done some background research. Your submitted written work should show your writing and research skills in their best light, as it will be important to show that you have the necessary skills required for historical research.

If your degree is not from the UK or another country specified above, visit our International Qualifications page for guidance on the qualifications and grades that would usually be considered to meet the University’s minimum entry requirements.

GRE General Test scores

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

Other qualifications, evidence of excellence and relevant experience

• In the case of mature students/intended career changes professional experience in cognate areas may compensate for shortcomings in the formal academic record.
• Publications are not required.

English language proficiency

This course requires proficiency in English at the University's  higher level . If your first language is not English, you may need to provide evidence that you meet this requirement. The minimum scores required to meet the University's higher level are detailed in the table below.

*Previously known as the Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English or Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) † Previously known as the Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English or Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)

Your test must have been taken no more than two years before the start date of your course. Our Application Guide provides  further information about the English language test requirement .

Declaring extenuating circumstances

If your ability to meet the entry requirements has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic (eg you were awarded an unclassified/ungraded degree) or any other exceptional personal circumstance (eg other illness or bereavement), please refer to the guidance on extenuating circumstances in the Application Guide for information about how to declare this so that your application can be considered appropriately.

You will need to register three referees who can give an informed view of your academic ability and suitability for the course. The  How to apply  section of this page provides details of the types of reference that are required in support of your application for this course and how these will be assessed.

Supporting documents

You will be required to supply supporting documents with your application. The  How to apply  section of this page provides details of the supporting documents that are required as part of your application for this course and how these will be assessed.

Performance at interview

Interviews are not normally held as part of the admissions process.

Assessors may get in touch with an applicant by email in case of any queries, but this is very rare.

Offer conditions for successful applications

If you receive an offer of a place at Oxford, your offer will outline any conditions that you need to satisfy and any actions you need to take, together with any associated deadlines. These may include academic conditions, such as achieving a specific final grade in your current degree course. These conditions will usually depend on your individual academic circumstances and may vary between applicants. Our ' After you apply ' pages provide more information about offers and conditions . 

In addition to any academic conditions which are set, you will also be required to meet the following requirements:

Financial Declaration

If you are offered a place, you will be required to complete a  Financial Declaration  in order to meet your financial condition of admission.

Disclosure of criminal convictions

In accordance with the University’s obligations towards students and staff, we will ask you to declare any  relevant, unspent criminal convictions  before you can take up a place at Oxford.

Other factors governing whether places can be offered

The following factors will also govern whether candidates can be offered places:

• the ability of the University to provide the appropriate supervision for your studies, as outlined under the 'Supervision' heading in the About section of this page;
• the ability of the University to provide appropriate support for your studies (eg through the provision of facilities, resources, teaching and/or research opportunities); and
• minimum and maximum limits to the numbers of students who may be admitted to the University's taught and research programmes.

History in Oxford stretches from c 300 to the present, and embraces in addition to its British and European heritage an exceptionally broad range of World history. It comprises an active research community of up to 800 senior academics and graduate students, all contributing to a range of research seminars, lectures, academic societies, and personal contacts.

Research in the faculty is organised around historical periods and research centres, or in collaborative and individual research projects, and you will always be welcome at seminars, workshops and conferences across all periods and themes.

You will be encouraged to make use of these opportunities as widely as possible without endangering your own degree work. Striking the right balance between intellectual curiosity and temptation and intellectual discipline, and remaining focused without becoming blinkered, should be an integral part of a successful graduate career. The Oxford environment provides all the ingredients for this.

View all courses   View taught courses View research courses

For entry in the 2025-26 academic year, the collegiate University expects to offer over 1,000 full or partial graduate scholarships across a wide range of graduate courses.

If you apply by the January deadline shown on this page and receive a course offer, your application will then be considered for Oxford scholarships. For the majority of Oxford scholarships, your application will automatically be assessed against the eligibility criteria, without needing to make a separate application. There are further Oxford scholarships available which have additional eligibility criteria and where you are required to submit a separate application. Most scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic merit and/or potential.

To ensure that you are considered for Oxford scholarships that require a separate application, for which you may be eligible,  use our fees, funding and scholarship search tool  to identify these opportunities and find out how to apply. Alongside Oxford scholarships, you should also consider other opportunities for which you may be eligible including  a range of external funding ,  loan schemes for postgraduate study  and any other scholarships which may also still be available after the January deadline as listed on  our fees, funding and scholarship search tool .

Details of college-specific funding opportunities can also be found on individual college websites:

Select from the list:

Please refer to the College preference section of this page to identify which of the colleges listed above accept students for this course.

For the majority of college scholarships, it doesn’t matter which college, if any, you state a preference for in your application. If another college is able to offer you a scholarship, your application can be moved to that college if you accept the scholarship. Some college scholarships may require you to state a preference for that college when you apply, so check the eligibility requirements carefully.

Further information about funding opportunities  for this course can be found on the faculty's website.

Annual fees for entry in 2025-26

Information about course fees

Course fees are payable each year, for the duration of your fee liability (your fee liability is the length of time for which you are required to pay course fees). For courses lasting longer than one year, please be aware that fees will usually increase annually. For details, please see our guidance on changes to fees and charges .

Course fees cover your teaching as well as other academic services and facilities provided to support your studies. Unless specified in the additional information section below, course fees do not cover your accommodation, residential costs or other living costs. They also don’t cover any additional costs and charges that are outlined in the additional information below.

Where can I find further information about fees?

The Fees and Funding  section of this website provides further information about course fees , including information about fee status and eligibility  and your length of fee liability .

Additional information

There are no compulsory elements of this course that entail additional costs beyond fees and living costs. However, as part of your course requirements, you may need to choose a dissertation, a project or a thesis topic. Please note that, depending on your choice of topic and the research required to complete it, you may incur additional expenses, such as travel expenses, research expenses, and field trips. You will need to meet these additional costs, although you may be able to apply for small grants from your department and/or college to help you cover some of these expenses.

Living costs

In addition to your course fees and any additional course-specific costs, you will need to ensure that you have adequate funds to support your living costs for the duration of your course.

Living costs for full-time study

For the 2025-26 academic year, the range of likely living costs for a single, full-time student is between £1,425 and £2,035 for each month spent in Oxford. We provide the cost per month so you can multiply up by the number of months you expect to live in Oxford. Depending on your circumstances, you may also need to budget for the  costs of a student visa and immigration health surcharge and/or living costs for family members or other dependants that you plan to bring with you to Oxford (assuming that dependant visa eligibility criteria are met).

Further information about living costs

The current economic climate and high national rate of inflation make it very hard to estimate potential changes to the cost of living over the next few years. For study in Oxford beyond the 2025-26 academic year, it is suggested that you budget for potential increases in living expenses of around 4% each year – although this rate may vary depending on the national economic situation. For further information, please consult our more detailed information about living costs , which includes a breakdown of likely living costs in Oxford for items such as food, accommodation and study costs.

College preference

Students enrolled on this course will belong to both a department/faculty and a college. Please note that ‘college’ and ‘colleges’ refers to all 43 of the University’s colleges, including those designated as societies and permanent private halls (PPHs). 

If you apply for a place on this course you will have the option to express a preference for one of the colleges listed below, or you can ask us to find a college for you. Before deciding, we suggest that you read our brief  introduction to the college system at Oxford  and our  advice about expressing a college preference . 

If you are a current Oxford student and you would like to remain at your current Oxford college, you should check whether it is listed below. If it is, you should indicate this preference when you apply. If not, you should contact your college office to ask whether they would be willing to make an exception. Further information about staying at your current college can be found in our Application Guide. 

The following colleges accept students for the MPhil in History (Intellectual History):

• Balliol College
• Blackfriars
• Brasenose College
• Campion Hall
• Christ Church
• Corpus Christi College
• Jesus College
• Keble College
• Kellogg College
• Lady Margaret Hall
• Linacre College
• Lincoln College
• Magdalen College
• Merton College
• New College
• Oriel College
• Pembroke College
• The Queen's College
• Regent's Park College
• Reuben College
• St Anne's College
• St Catherine's College
• St Cross College
• St Hilda's College
• St Hugh's College
• Somerville College
• University College
• Wadham College
• Wolfson College
• Worcester College
• Wycliffe Hall

Before you apply

Our  guide to getting started  provides general advice on how to prepare for and start your application. You can use our interactive tool to help you  evaluate whether your application is likely to be competitive .

If it's important for you to have your application considered under a particular deadline – eg under a December or January deadline in order to be considered for Oxford scholarships – we recommend that you aim to complete and submit your application at least two weeks in advance . Check the deadlines on this page and the  information about deadlines and when to apply  in our Application Guide.

Students are admitted to this course via one of nine strands, so you must decide which strand you would like to follow and select it when you choose your course. It may be possible to change your strand after admission in exceptional cases.

Application fee waivers

An application fee of £75 is payable for each application to this course. Application fee waivers are available for the following applicants who meet the eligibility criteria:

• applicants from low-income countries;
• refugees and displaced persons; 
• UK applicants from low-income backgrounds; and 
• applicants who applied for our Graduate Access Programmes in the past two years and met the eligibility criteria.

You are encouraged to  check whether you're eligible for an application fee waiver  before you apply.

Do I need to contact anyone before I apply?

You do not need to contact anyone in the faculty before you apply and you are not responsible for finding your own supervisor. However, you are strongly encouraged to familiarise yourself with the  research expertise within the faculty  when preparing your research proposal, to make sure that there is a supervisor available in the same area as your proposed project. Offers will only be made if appropriate supervision is available. The faculty determines supervision arrangements, taking due account of the workload and commitments of its academics. If you are made an offer, a supervisor will be assigned to you, and identified in the offer letter.

Completing your application

You should refer to the information below when completing the application form, paying attention to the specific requirements for the supporting documents .

For this course, the application form will include questions that collect information that would usually be included in a CV/résumé. You should not upload a separate document. If a separate CV/résumé is uploaded, it will be removed from your application .

If any document does not meet the specification, including the stipulated word count, your application may be considered incomplete and not assessed by the academic department. Expand each section to show further details.

Proposed field and title of research project

Under the 'Field and title of research project' please enter your proposed field or area of research if this is known. If the department has advertised a specific research project that you would like to be considered for, please enter the project title here instead.

You should not use this field to type out a full research proposal. You will be able to upload your research supporting materials separately if they are required (as described below).

Proposed supervisor

It is not necessary for you to identify a potential supervisor in your application.

However, please check that a supervisor with expertise in your proposed area of research is available before applying. Details can be found on the faculty website. You are free to consult a specialist in your field for advice on your project, if you think that would be helpful.

Referees: Three overall, academic preferred

Whilst you must register three referees, the department may start the assessment of your application if two of the three references are submitted by the course deadline and your application is otherwise complete. Please note that you may still be required to ensure your third referee supplies a reference for consideration.

References should generally be academic, though if you are returning to study after extended periods of non-academic employment then you are welcome to nominate professional referees where it would be impractical to call on your previous university tutors.

Your references will support intellectual ability, academic achievement, motivation, ability to work in both a group environment and sustained individual and self-motivated investigation.

Official transcript(s)

Your transcripts should give detailed information of the individual grades received in your university-level qualifications to date. You should only upload official documents issued by your institution and any transcript not in English should be accompanied by a certified translation.

More information about the transcript requirement is available in the Application Guide.

Statement of purpose and research proposal: A minimum of 500 to a maximum of 1,000 words in total

The statement of purpose and research proposal should be written as one combined piece.

You should convince the faculty that you have the right intellectual qualities, academic knowledge and skills to undertake the course, focusing on how you see the course as building upon your previous study

You should discuss what kinds of problems and issues you hope to engage with; what the current state of your knowledge and understanding of these is, and how you hope to advance that.

You should include a preliminary research proposal and title for your intended dissertation. This should supply a research question identifying the central issue or problem with which you intend to grapple, some account of the current state of scholarship in this area and an indication of the kinds of sources you hope to use.

You may also include what you hope to do with the qualification you gain.

Your statement and research proposal must be written in English. A bibliography may also be provided and is not included in the word count, though any footnotes should be included.

If possible, please ensure that the word count is clearly displayed on the document.

It is anticipated that your ideas will change and develop once you have begun the programme and have been exposed to new approaches, sources and methods. However, students applying to this course are expected to have a clear sense of the kind of research they wish to undertake.

This will be assessed for:

• your reasons for applying
• evidence of motivation for and understanding of the proposed area of study
• the coherence of the proposal, the ability to present a reasoned case in English
• commitment to the subject, beyond the requirements of the degree programme
• reasoning ability
• ability to absorb new ideas, often presented abstractly, at a rapid pace.

Written work: An academic writing sample of no more than 4,000 words in total length

Written work should be from your most recent completed qualification, but does not need to relate closely to your proposed area of study. Extracts from a longer piece of work are welcome, but please include a preface which puts the work in context.

The work will be assessed for your:

• understanding of problems in the area
• ability to construct and defend an argument
• powers of analysis
• powers of expression.

It must be submitted in English (if this work has been translated, you must indicate if the translations are your own, or what assistance you had in producing the English text).

If possible, please ensure that the word count is clearly displayed on the document. Any footnotes should be included in the word count. A bibliography may also be provided and is not included in the word count.

Start or continue your application

You can start or return to an application using the relevant link below. As you complete the form, please  refer to the requirements above  and  consult our Application Guide for advice .

Apply Continue application

After you've submitted your application

Your application (including the supporting documents outlined above) will be assessed against the entry requirements detailed on this course page. Whether or not you have secured funding will  not  be taken into consideration when your application is assessed. You can  find out more about our shortlisting and selection process  in our detailed guide to what happens next.

Find out how to manage your application after submission , using our Applicant Self-Service tool.

ADMISSION STATUS

Open to applications for entry in 2025-26

12:00 midday UK time on:

Tuesday 7 January 2025

Latest deadline for most Oxford scholarships Final application deadline for entry in 2025-26

† Combined figure for all History MPhil courses, except for TP_HN1, TP_HS1 and TP_LVBY1 *Three-year average (applications for entry in 2022-23 to 2024-25)

Further information and enquiries

This course is offered by the Faculty of History

• Course page on the faculty's website
• Funding information from the faculty
• Academic and research staff
• Faculty research
• Humanities Division
• Residence requirements for full-time courses
• Postgraduate applicant privacy policy

Course-related enquiries

Advice about contacting the department can be found in the How to apply section of this page

✉ [email protected] ☎ +44 (0) 1865 615000

Application-process enquiries

Application guide