2024 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs

The University of Florida (UF) is a public research university located in Gainesville, Florida. It is one of the top-ranked universities in the United States and is known for its strong academic programs, including its online doctoral programs in history.

UF offers a fully online Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program in history, which is designed for students who want to pursue advanced research in the field. The program offers a wide range of resources for history graduate students in diverse fields and subfields of study. Students can choose from a variety of fields of study, including American history, European history, and world history.

The program requires formal admission to the University of Florida, and applicants must meet UF’s general admission requirements, as well as those specified by the individual degree program. The program also requires students to complete a qualifying examination and dissertation prospectus.

UF’s online doctoral program in history is consistently ranked among the best in the nation. In fact, it is ranked #1 in the College Consensus ranking of the Best Online Doctorate in History Programs. UF’s program is known for its rigorous academic standards, expert faculty, and strong research opportunities.

Overall, UF’s online doctoral program in history is an excellent option for students who want to pursue advanced research in the field. With its strong academic reputation and flexible online format, UF is a top choice for students who want to earn a Ph.D. in history.

Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) is a nationally recognized institution that offers a variety of doctoral degree programs online. The Department of History at Penn State offers a small, focused PhD program designed to prepare students for careers inside or outside academia. The program admits students in five primary fields, which reflect faculty strength: the United States, Latin America, Early Modern Global, China, and the Middle East.

Penn State’s online doctoral program is designed to allow students to advance their studies while completing coursework online in a flexible doctorate level program. The program is designed to help students stand out in their field, and gain the skills and knowledge necessary for career and professional advancement.

Penn State’s online doctoral program is fully accredited and offers a range of resources to support students throughout their academic journey. Students can access online libraries, research databases, and other resources to aid in their studies. Faculty members are also available to provide guidance and support to students throughout their coursework.

In addition to doctoral programs, Penn State also offers a range of online graduate programs and certificates. Students can earn a respected, accredited master’s degree online, expand their professional skills with a graduate certificate, or earn a doctoral degree with the flexibility required to fit their life. Penn State’s online graduate programs are designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen field.

Overall, Penn State’s online doctoral program in history is a great option for students looking to advance their studies in a flexible, online environment. With a range of resources and support available, students can gain the skills and knowledge necessary for career and professional advancement.

The University of Southern California (USC) is a private research institution located in Los Angeles, California. USC offers an online Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in History program that prepares students for careers in academia, research, and other fields. The program is designed to be completed in 4-5 years and requires students to complete a dissertation.

The USC online Ph.D. in History program provides students with the opportunity to specialize in a variety of areas, including American history, European history, and global history. Students can also tailor their degree to their interests by selecting courses from a wide range of topics, such as gender and sexuality, race and ethnicity, and political and social history.

USC’s online Ph.D. in History program is taught by the same faculty who teach on-campus courses. The faculty members are experts in their respective fields and are committed to providing students with a high-quality education. In addition to coursework, students are required to attend virtual seminars and complete a residency requirement.

USC’s online Ph.D. in History program is ranked #12 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. The program is also accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in academia, research, and other fields.

Indiana University (IU) offers a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in History degree program through its College of Arts and Sciences. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in and out of the classroom. Students have access to all the benefits of one of the largest history departments and one of the largest research libraries in the country.

The History Department at IU is proud to be one of the top-rated graduate programs in the country. Graduate students have access to world-class faculty, prestigious journals, and a variety of academic and professional resources designed to prepare them for careers in academia, government, and the private sector.

IU also offers an online graduate certificate in History that provides graduate-level instruction in the field of history. The program allows students to gain a depth of knowledge in a variety of historical subjects, practice historical interpretation, think critically, employ research and analysis methods, and communicate concepts and ideas with precision and clarity.

IU’s online Master of Arts (M.A.) in History degree program is 100% online and helps prepare students for careers as general researchers, writers or editors, journalists or broadcasters, K-12 teachers, library or museum workers. The program is of special interest for teachers/instructors needing to meet HLC dual-credit standards.

IU Bloomington’s Ph.D. in History program has specific requirements that students must meet to graduate. Students must complete coursework, pass comprehensive exams, and submit and defend a dissertation. The program is designed to provide students with a rigorous and comprehensive education in history and to prepare them for careers in academia, government, and the private sector.

IU’s history programs are highly respected and provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the field of history.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) is a public research university located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. It is one of the oldest public universities in the United States and is known for its strong academic programs. UNC offers a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in History through its Department of History.

The Ph.D. program in History at UNC is designed to prepare students for careers in research, teaching, and public service. Students can specialize in a wide range of fields, including American history, European history, African history, Latin American history, and Asian history. The program requires students to complete coursework, pass comprehensive exams, and write a dissertation.

UNC’s Department of History has a strong reputation for its faculty and research. The department has over 50 full-time faculty members who are experts in their fields. Students in the Ph.D. program have the opportunity to work closely with these faculty members and benefit from their expertise.

UNC also offers a number of resources to support its Ph.D. students in History. The department provides funding for research and conference travel, as well as opportunities for teaching experience. The university also offers a range of professional development resources, including workshops and seminars on teaching and research.

Overall, UNC’s Ph.D. program in History is a rigorous and well-respected program that prepares students for successful careers in academia and beyond.

Arizona State University (ASU) is a prestigious institution offering a variety of online history doctorate degree programs. ASU is ranked among the best graduate schools in the country by U.S. News & World Report, and its online programs are taught by the same world-renowned faculty who teach on campus.

ASU offers a fully online History PhD program that cultivates a strong background in historical research methodology and scholarly analysis. Students acquire skills in text analysis, research, and writing through a systematic examination of many issues relevant to today’s society. The program requires 84 credit hours, including a minimum of 18 credit hours of dissertation research.

In addition to the PhD program, ASU offers a Master of Arts in History program that is also fully online. This program explores the history of societies from across the world while fostering collaboration among peers in a community setting. The program requires 30 credit hours, including a thesis or applied project.

ASU also offers several graduate certificates in history, including a graduate certificate in World War II Studies. These certificates are designed to enhance students’ knowledge and skills in specific areas of history.

Overall, ASU’s online history doctorate degree programs provide students with a rigorous and flexible education that prepares them for a variety of careers in academia, research, and beyond.

Boston University’s online history doctorate degree program is ranked among the best in the country by College Consensus. BU’s program is designed for students who want to specialize in a particular area of history, such as American, African, Asian, or European history. The program is fully online, which means that students can complete their coursework from anywhere in the world.

BU’s online history doctorate degree program is taught by experienced faculty members who are experts in their respective fields. The program is also designed to be flexible, which means that students can choose to study full-time or part-time depending on their schedule.

BU’s online history doctorate degree program requires students to complete a minimum of 64 credits. The program includes coursework in research methods, historiography, and a variety of historical topics. Students are also required to complete a dissertation, which is a significant research project that demonstrates their mastery of a particular area of history.

Overall, BU’s online history doctorate degree program is an excellent choice for students who want to pursue a career in academia or research. The program is highly respected in the field of history, and graduates are well-prepared for a variety of careers in education, government, or the private sector.

The University of Central Florida (UCF) offers a Doctorate of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Public History. This program is designed for students who are interested in pursuing careers in public history, including museum work, historic preservation, and cultural resource management. Students in this program will take courses in areas such as museum studies, historic preservation, and archival management.

One unique aspect of UCF’s program is its emphasis on digital history. Students will have the opportunity to explore digital tools and techniques for presenting historical information to the public. This includes courses in digital storytelling, website design, and social media.

UCF’s program also offers opportunities for students to gain practical experience in the field. Students can participate in internships at local museums and historic sites, and they can also work on research projects with faculty members.

In addition to the Ph.D. in Public History, UCF also offers several other doctoral programs that may be of interest to students interested in history. These include a Ph.D. in History, a Ph.D. in Texts and Technology, and a Ph.D. in Security Studies.

UCF’s online programs are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The university has been recognized as one of the top online universities in the country by U.S. News & World Report.

Overall, UCF’s online Ph.D. in Public History is a strong option for students interested in pursuing a career in public history. The program’s emphasis on digital history and practical experience make it a unique and valuable opportunity for students looking to make an impact in the field.

The University of Illinois (UI) offers a variety of online doctoral programs, including a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in History. This program is designed for students who want to pursue a career in academia, research, or public history. The program provides students with a strong foundation in historical research and writing, as well as the skills needed to teach history at the university level.

The PhD program in History at UI is fully accredited and provides students with the opportunity to work with top-notch faculty members who are experts in their fields. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their coursework and research to their individual interests and career goals.

To apply to the program, students must have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in history or a related field. They must also submit a statement of purpose, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation. The program is highly competitive, and applicants are selected based on their academic achievements, research interests, and potential for success in the program.

UI’s online doctoral program in history is designed to be completed in four to six years, depending on the student’s course load and research progress. The program requires 64 credit hours of coursework, including 16 credit hours of research methods and a dissertation. Students must also pass a comprehensive examination and defend their dissertation in front of a committee of faculty members.

Overall, UI’s online PhD program in history provides students with a rigorous and flexible curriculum that prepares them for a variety of careers in academia, research, and public history. The program is highly competitive, and students are expected to be self-motivated and dedicated to their studies. If you’re looking for a top-notch online doctoral program in history, UI is definitely worth considering.

George Washington University (GWU) is a private research university located in Washington, D.C. It offers a Ph.D. program in History that is designed to prepare students for careers in academia, public history, and related fields. The program is highly selective, admitting only a small number of students each year.

GWU’s Ph.D. program in History is known for its rigorous coursework and faculty mentorship. Students work closely with faculty members to develop their research interests and complete their dissertations. The program also provides opportunities for students to gain teaching experience and participate in professional development activities.

One of the unique features of GWU’s Ph.D. program in History is its emphasis on public history. The program offers a concentration in Public History that prepares students for careers in museums, archives, historic preservation, and other public history fields. Students in the Public History concentration take courses in museum studies, archival management, and historic preservation, and complete internships in public history organizations.

GWU’s Ph.D. program in History is fully funded, providing students with tuition remission and a stipend for living expenses for up to five years. The university also offers a number of resources to support graduate students, including research funding, professional development workshops, and career services.

Overall, GWU’s Ph.D. program in History is a top choice for students interested in pursuing careers in academia, public history, and related fields. Its rigorous coursework, faculty mentorship, and emphasis on public history make it a unique and valuable program for students looking to make an impact in the field of history.

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) is a public research university located in Lincoln, Nebraska. It offers a Ph.D. program in History that prepares students for careers as scholars and educators. The program emphasizes research, writing, and teaching skills, and encourages students to pursue interdisciplinary graduate certificates or specializations.

The UNL Ph.D. program in History requires 90 total credit hours and offers three primary fields of study: North American History, European History, and World History. Students can supplement their historical study with interdisciplinary training in Digital History/Humanities, Women’s and Gender Studies, Ethnic Studies, Medieval and Renaissance Studies, Great Plains Studies, and more.

The program provides a range of research opportunities, including assistantships, fellowships, and grants. The university’s libraries and archives offer extensive collections in American and European history, as well as in the history of the Great Plains and the American West.

UNL’s Ph.D. program in History has a strong reputation for producing successful scholars and educators. Its graduates have gone on to hold positions at universities and colleges across the country, as well as in government, non-profit organizations, and other fields. The program’s faculty members are highly regarded in their respective fields and are committed to mentoring and supporting students throughout their academic careers.

Overall, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Ph.D. program in History offers students a rigorous and well-rounded education in the discipline, with ample opportunities for research, professional development, and career advancement.

Liberty University offers an online Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in History program that requires 72 credit hours and can be completed in an average of four years. The program is 100% online and follows an eight-week class format. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including American history, European history, military history, and world history.

The program is designed to prepare graduates for roles in leadership, research, and education. The coursework is rigorous and includes research methods, historiography, and the preparation of a dissertation. Students are also required to complete two on-campus intensives, which provide an opportunity to interact with faculty and fellow students.

One of the unique features of the program is the Executive Certificate in History, which is available to students who complete the first 18 credit hours of the program. The certificate is designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of historical research and analysis.

Overall, Liberty University’s online PhD in History program is a solid choice for students who are looking for a flexible and rigorous program that prepares them for a career in history. The program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Walden University offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in History online program that is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become experts in their field. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to complete their coursework at their own pace. The program requires students to complete 95 quarter credits, which includes 20 credits for a dissertation.

The program is designed to be completed in four years, but students can take up to seven years to finish. Students can choose from a variety of specializations, including American history, world history, and public history. The program is taught by experienced faculty members who are experts in their field.

Walden University also offers a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment with a specialization in Social Studies Education. This program is designed for educators who want to become leaders in the field of social studies education. The program requires students to complete 82 quarter credits, which includes 20 credits for a dissertation.

The program is designed to be completed in three years, but students can take up to seven years to finish. Students will learn about curriculum development, instructional strategies, and assessment techniques. They will also learn how to use technology to enhance their teaching and learning.

Overall, Walden University offers two excellent online doctoral programs for history enthusiasts who want to advance their knowledge and skills in the field. The programs are flexible, affordable, and taught by experienced faculty members who are experts in their field.

The University of Colorado, Denver offers an online Doctor of Philosophy in Education and Human Development with a concentration in Leadership for Educational Equity. This program is designed for individuals who want to pursue careers in educational leadership, policy, and research. The program is delivered entirely online and can be completed in as little as three years.

The program requires 60 credit hours of coursework, including core courses in research methods, leadership theory, and educational policy. Students also take courses in their chosen concentration area, which includes topics such as equity and social justice, educational reform, and community engagement.

In addition to coursework, students must complete a comprehensive exam and a dissertation. The comprehensive exam is designed to assess students’ knowledge and understanding of the program’s core concepts, while the dissertation requires students to conduct original research in their chosen area of concentration.

The University of Colorado, Denver is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is ranked #106 in the 2022 edition of Best Colleges in National Universities by U.S. News & World Report. The university’s online graduate education programs are also ranked #18 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.

Overall, the University of Colorado, Denver’s online Doctor of Philosophy in Education and Human Development program provides students with a comprehensive education in educational leadership and policy. The program’s emphasis on equity and social justice is particularly relevant in today’s educational landscape, making it an excellent choice for individuals who want to make a positive impact in their communities.

Capella University is a well-known online institution, offering a variety of doctoral programs, including a Doctor of Philosophy in History. The program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of historical research, analysis, and writing. The program is also designed to prepare students for careers in academia, research, and other fields that require advanced historical knowledge.

The program requires a total of 90 quarter credits, which can be completed in as little as four years. Students will take courses in historical theory, research methods, and historiography, as well as courses in their specific area of interest. The program also requires a dissertation, which is an original research project that contributes to the field of history.

One unique feature of Capella’s program is the flexibility it offers. Students can choose to complete their coursework entirely online, or they can attend a residency program. The residency program allows students to work closely with faculty and other students in a face-to-face setting, which can be especially beneficial for those who prefer a more traditional classroom experience.

Overall, Capella University’s Doctor of Philosophy in History is a rigorous and flexible program that prepares students for careers in a variety of fields. With its emphasis on research, analysis, and writing, the program is an excellent choice for those who are passionate about history and want to make a meaningful contribution to the field.

Rutgers University offers a History Doctorate Degree program that prepares students for careers in teaching, research, and other fields related to history. The program provides outstanding academic opportunities for advanced study leading to the M.A. and Ph.D. degrees. The Rutgers University History Department at New Brunswick is known for its excellent faculty, research, and scholarship. The department has a strong commitment to interdisciplinary studies, and students have the opportunity to work with faculty in other departments and programs.

Rutgers University also offers personalized academic support for approximately 5,200 Rutgers students enrolled in more than 150 doctoral, master’s, and dual-degree programs across New Brunswick. The Graduate School-New Brunswick provides a wide range of services and resources to support students throughout their academic journey, including financial assistance, career development, and professional skills training.

Students pursuing a History Doctorate Degree at Rutgers University have access to a wide range of resources and facilities. The university’s libraries and archives are among the best in the country, with extensive collections of primary and secondary sources in all areas of history. The libraries also provide access to a wide range of electronic resources, including databases, journals, and e-books.

The joint Graduate History Program at Rutgers-Newark and NJIT is the largest and most diverse master’s-level history program in the state of New Jersey. The program prepares students for careers in teaching, business, law, government, administration, and other fields related to history. The program is known for its excellent faculty, research, and scholarship, and students have the opportunity to work with faculty in other departments and programs.

The University of Arkansas is a public research university located in Fayetteville, Arkansas. It offers a fully online Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in History degree program that emphasizes research and scholarship. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in academia, research, and other fields that require expertise in history.

The University of Arkansas’s online Ph.D. program in History has a flexible curriculum that allows students to tailor their studies to their specific interests and goals. Students can choose from a variety of courses that cover a wide range of historical periods and topics, such as American history, European history, and world history. They can also work closely with faculty members to develop and conduct their own research projects.

The program requires a minimum of 72 credit hours of coursework, including 24 credit hours of dissertation research. Students must also pass a comprehensive exam and defend their dissertation before a committee of faculty members. The program typically takes four to five years to complete.

One of the benefits of the University of Arkansas’s online Ph.D. program in History is its affordability. The university offers in-state tuition rates to all online students, regardless of where they live. Additionally, the program offers a number of financial aid opportunities, including graduate assistantships and fellowships.

Overall, the University of Arkansas’s online Ph.D. program in History is a solid choice for students who are looking for a flexible and affordable program that emphasizes research and scholarship. With its wide range of courses and faculty expertise, students can tailor their studies to their interests and career goals.

St. John’s University offers a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in World History program that is designed to prepare students for academic careers in teaching and research. The program is offered on-campus and is not available online. Students in the program receive advanced training in global, comparative, and transnational history.

To apply to the Ph.D. in World History program, students must submit official transcripts showing conferral of their bachelor’s degree and at least 24 credits in history. They must also possess at least a cumulative GPA of 3.0 at the undergraduate level, with a 3.5 or higher in history courses. The program requires a writing sample, three letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.

St. John’s University also offers a combined Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) program in partnership with Adelphi and Hofstra Universities. The program is a four-year post-baccalaureate program that meets national standards for certification in Audiology.

While St. John’s University does not offer an online Ph.D. in History program, the university does offer online graduate degree programs. These programs are designed to fit the lives of working professionals who want to earn a degree without putting their careers on hold. There are no set class times, giving students the flexibility to study when and where they want.

Overall, St. John’s University is a reputable institution that offers a Ph.D. in World History program for students interested in pursuing careers in teaching and research. While the program is not available online, the university does offer online graduate degree programs for students looking for more flexibility in their studies.

Nova Southeastern University (NSU) offers a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Organizational Leadership with a concentration in Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of conflict resolution and peace studies, as well as the skills to apply this knowledge in real-world situations.

NSU’s online education program features faculty and student discussion forums with threaded bulletin boards, real-time electronic classrooms with graphical presentations and audio, and online submission of assignments in multimedia formats. This flexibility allows students to complete the program at their own pace and from anywhere in the world.

The Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership program requires 60 credit hours and can be completed in four years. The curriculum includes courses such as Leadership Theory and Practice, Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies, and Organizational Change and Development. Students also have the opportunity to participate in an internship or research project to gain practical experience in the field.

NSU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and the program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). The university also offers a variety of resources for online students, including an online library with access to academic journals, e-books, and other research materials.

Overall, NSU’s Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership with a concentration in Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies is a strong option for students seeking an online history doctorate degree program. The flexibility of the program, combined with NSU’s accreditation and resources, make it a great choice for students looking to advance their careers in the field of conflict resolution and peace studies.

Texas Tech University (TTU) is a public research university located in Lubbock, Texas. It is a member of the Texas Tech University System and has been offering graduate education since 1927. Today, the university offers over 60 doctoral degrees, including a Doctor of Philosophy in History program.

The Doctor of Philosophy in History program at TTU requires 60 hours beyond the B.A./B.S. degree, with 30 of those hours taken at TTU. The program is face-to-face, with some exceptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic [1].

TTU’s Department of History offers concentrations in the geographic areas of Asia, Europe, and the United States, with specializations within each field [2]. Students in the program have the opportunity to work with a diverse group of faculty members who are experts in their fields.

TTU’s eLearning & Academic Partnerships also offers an online Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction program with several tracks, including a track in Language, Diversity & Literacy Studies [3]. Additionally, they offer a hybrid/blended Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction program with a track in Curriculum Studies and Teacher Education [3].

TTU’s graduate programs in history have been recognized by U.S. News & World Report in their 2022 Best Online Programs ranking, with four online graduate programs offered by the university appearing in the rankings [4].

Overall, Texas Tech University offers a strong graduate program in history with a diverse group of faculty members and several options for students to pursue their doctoral degrees, both in-person and online.