Learn history: dive into the past with engaging courses
Turn your passion for history into a meaningful career. Explore online courses and history programs from top universities delivered through edX.
Why take online history courses?
History is not inert; it is a vibrant social science that explores past events to help us understand current issues and envision possible futures.
By studying history — through historical artifacts, records, and oral stories — you can gain insight into the cultures and events that have shaped societies over time. This knowledge spans everything from the current climate crisis and the significance of cultures and subcultures in everyday life to government and private sector decisions and their impact on billions of lives and ecosystems.
Understanding history can also translate into a career. Studying history through online courses and degrees may help you develop transferable skills like communication, critical thinking, advanced writing, and research methodologies.
Mastering these skills and acquiring specialized historical knowledge may lead to job opportunities in archives, museums, heritage sites, and the media industry, developing scripts for documentaries or movies based on actual events. With further education, you could become a lawyer, a diplomat, or even start a business in the tourism industry.
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Choosing the right online history program for you
To pursue a career with history at its center, you may start by taking online courses or enrolling in a degree program.
Courses
edX offers free online history courses on specific, in-demand subjects relevant to diverse industries. Designed by top universities, online history courses provide flexible scheduling and typically last 4-10 weeks. You also have the option to upgrade and earn a certificate upon completion of the course.
Degrees
Online bachelor's and master's degree programs offer flexibility and accessibility to learners wherever they are. edX offers online degree programs from renowned institutions that are equivalent to their on-campus counterparts, allowing you to study on your schedule, often at a lower cost.
You may consider a bachelor's degree in history, which equips learners with a foundation in historical knowledge and research methods. Earning a bachelor's degree in history may take four years for full-time students.
Similarly, a master's degree in history may be an option for those looking to advance or change careers. According to a Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) survey, earning a master's degree often leads to higher earning potential. Master's program length varies by institution and delivery method, but most range from 12–36 months.
Additionally, those who want to pursue roles in academia or senior management could go on to enroll in a doctoral program.
Jobs in the history field
If you're considering pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree, take a look at these jobs for history majors with salary data from the BLS:
Historians
Historians research and analyze historical data from archives, books, and artifacts to report findings, preserve materials for museums or historic sites, or advise governments, nonprofits, or businesses.
- Required education: Typically requires a master's degree, though some entry-level roles accept a bachelor's degree in history.
- BLS median annual salary (2024):$74,050
Archivists, curators, and museum workers
Archivists, curators, and museum technicians work with historical artifacts to authenticate and preserve objects and documents of cultural or scientific importance. These professionals often use technology for research and preservation, create educational programs for museums or exhibitions, and develop guidelines for an artifact's management and use.
- Required education: Bachelor's degree in history or related field.
- BLS median annual salary (2024): $57,100
Writers and authors
Writers and authors create content for books, newspapers, magazines, academic journals, and digital media. Individuals with history expertise may specialize in biography, political speechwriting, and documentary scriptwriting.
- Required education: Bachelor's degree for salaried positions; additional certifications and subject-matter expertise may enhance job prospects.
- BLS median annual salary (2024): $72,270
Teachers and instructors
Teachers and instructors create lesson plans to educate students across educational levels, from elementary school to university. History graduates can teach history or related subjects, with opportunities for career advancement in academia.
- Required education: Bachelor's degree and certifications; a master's degree or doctorate may be required for postsecondary roles.
- BLS median annual salary (2023): $64,390
Learn history online with edX
Make a profession out of your passion. Expand your knowledge of history at your own pace and earn a credential from a top university with edX's courses and programs. Sign up for a free course today.
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