Colleges with the best affordable online Bachelor’s in History degree offerings let students learn anywhere and anytime 24/7. Unlike past centuries, history courses aren’t confined to a campus lecture hall. History majors in today’s Digital Age can explore ancient, medieval, and modern times entirely on the internet. Cheap history degree programs are hoping to attract traditional and non-traditional students back to the humanities field. In 2017, The Chronicle of Higher Education warned that enrollment of history majors has plummeted 33 percent. There’s only about 24,250 history bachelor’s degrees awarded on-campus and online each year. Would-be history majors are misguidedly warned to pick more “practical” programs like STEM. Undergraduate history curricula build many skills and traits employers look for though. In fact, Business Insider lists critical thinking, creativity, people, and problem-solving as the top 2020 skills. Studying history also surprisingly helps us better understand our present world and future. Inexpensive online history degrees train informed, culturally aware citizens for enacting change.
Our Methodology
The AS Staff decided to highlight online best-value history degree programs that reflect on important people and events of the past. We started by accessing the National Center for Education Statistics’ College Navigator database. Here we did an advanced search for four-year bachelor’s degrees in history. We chose to locate only selections with distance education primarily on the web. This created our initial pool of 50 online history degree paths. Next, we visited each university’s own financial aid office website. Our team recorded the latest online tuition price for 2019-20. This annual figure was based on in-state, full-time enrollment (30 credits). We developed the following five-point scale to grade online economical history degree majors based on their value.
Points:
Under $7,500 – 5 Points
$7,500 to $15,000 – 3 Points
$15,001 and above – 1 Point
Next, Affordable Schools returned to the NCES website to find student-faculty ratio information. Student-faculty ratios are a major indicator of class size. The ratio conveys the average number of undergrads per one teacher without words. Student-faculty ratios of 10:1 or less suggest very small classes. Online top-value history degree programs with small, engaged cohorts are best. There’s less competition for history students to get professor attention. History teachers aren’t so overworked and overwhelmed that they can’t respond promptly to questions. Small online classes have shorter rosters, so faculty can get to know each pupil personally. Getting lost in the shuffle won’t be a concern. They’ll act as mentors to advise on historical references, career moves, internship placements, and more. Discussion boards will also be shorter to read what everyone in your class says. Given that, our second three-point rubric was designed to measure student-faculty ratio at online low-cost history degree colleges.
Points:
10:1 or less – 3 Points
11:1 to 15:1 – 2 Points
Greater than 15:1 – 1 Point
Finally, the AS Staff reviewed the graduation rates on the College Navigator. We believe low graduation rates are a symptom of subpar education. Our goal was locating high-quality online affordable colleges for history degree studies that actually graduate students. The graduation rate tells the percentage of pupils who finish in a generous six-year period. High rates above 50 percent indicate the best online learning environment. Not only do classes aptly challenge majors, but the support services also help students stay involved. Good graduation outcomes decrease the likelihood of being unsatisfied by the online college. More learners are staying through completion instead of dropping out or transferring elsewhere. Sticking with an online history program for four years will save you time, money, and wasted effort. We built the last rubric below based on graduation rate. Our team then added the totals and kept the 40 top scores as our best affordable online Bachelor’s in History degree options.
Points:
More than 50 percent – 3 Points
Between 30 percent and 50 percent – 2 Points
Less than 30 percent – 1 Point
Ranking the 40 Best Affordable Online Colleges for History Degree Majors
40. Granite State College
Concord, NH
Total Points: 5
Program Website
Granite State College kicks off our top 40 affordable distance education history degree programs with a $9,420 annual rate. On Moodle, the Liberal Arts Division offers a top-value History B.A. in 50 states and Social Studies B.A. in five New England states for Grades 7-12 certification preparation with an 18:1 student-faculty ratio. Administered by Dr. Sarah Batterson, the low-cost, 120-credit, NECHE-accredited degree tracks have an optional 2+2 Transfer Pathway into accelerated eight-week online courses like European History and Expository Writing. Students can also take the Prior Learning Assessment, intern at Strawbery Banke Museum, join Concord Book Club, and get the Osher Reentry Scholarship.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Bachelor of Arts in Social Studies
Online Tuition: $9,420
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 23 percent
39. Western New Mexico University
Silver City, NM
Total Points: 5
Program Website
Western New Mexico University stands 39th among our online affordable colleges for history degree programs with a $7,994 in-state price. On Canvas since 2017, the College of Arts & Sciences has delivered a cheap B.A./B.S. in History and Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies (B.I.S.) – History Concentration to examine past human affairs for 63 percent freshman retention. Chaired by Dr. John Lavalle, the flexible, top-value, 120-credit, HLC-accredited degree paths let undergrads with minimum 2.0 GPAs pick from more than 200 online courses like World Civilization and Historical Geology. Mustangs might also intern in the Student Conservation Association, join History Club, minor in American Indian Studies, and tour Rome.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Bachelor of Science in History
Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies – History Concentration
Online Tuition: $7,994
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 26 percent
38. Judson College
Marion, AL
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Judson College is Affordable Schools’ 38th best accredited university for history degree studies online with $17,240 yearly tuition. On Moodle, the Social Sciences Division maintains a low 5:1 student-faculty ratio for its low-cost, online B.A. in History and B.A. in Social Studies Education that satisfies Class B secondary (Grades 7-12) teacher certification. Headed by Dr. Michael Bergman, the 128-credit, SACS-accredited sequences start every four weeks for fast two-month or regular four-month online courses like Colonial America and History of Christianity. Judson women may also access Bowling Library, serve with Street Reach Memphis, explore Egypt, and intern at the Alabama Historical Commission.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Bachelor of Arts in Social Studies Education
Online Tuition: $17,240
Student-Faculty Ratio: 5:1
Graduation Rate: 35 percent
37. Northern Kentucky University
Highland Heights, KY
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Northern Kentucky University is crowned the AS Staff’s 37th best affordable college for history degree programs with a $13,110 online value. On Canvas since Spring 2018, the College of Arts & Sciences has awarded a top-value, online History B.A. to train effective communicators and collaborators for thinking critically about world issues at a 19:1 student-faculty ratio. Overseen by Dr. Robert Wilcox, the economical, 120-credit, SACS-accredited curriculum has short seven-week or regular 16-week formats for courses like European History and Advanced Historical Writing. Vikings could also pledge Phi Alpha Theta, intern at William Howard Taft Historical Site, pick the Military History minor, and travel to Scotland.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Online Tuition: $13,110
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 42 percent
36. Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Liberty University is labeled our 36th best affordable online history degree provider with a $11,700 universal cost. The College of Arts & Sciences accepts $50 applications on a rolling basis from prospective B.S. in History and B.S. in Military Studies – History Concentration students with minimum 2.0 GPAs for exploring various past periods. Organized by Dr. Sam Smith, the inexpensive, 120-credit, SACS-accredited degree tracks allow 90 transfer credits to accelerate through eight-week online courses like Geography and Western Civilization on Blackboard. Flames can also attend the Civil War Seminar, intern at Anne Spencer Museum, join Omega Nu Lambda, and receive the Word of Life Scholarship.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in History
Bachelor of Science in Military Studies – History Concentration
Online Tuition: $11,700
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 50 percent
35. University of Louisiana-Monroe
Monroe, LA
Total Points: 6
Program Website
The University of Louisiana-Monroe made our top 35 online affordable colleges for history degree studies with a $12,000 annual total. On Moodle, the School of Humanities launched a top-value, online B.A. in History where online freshmen with a minimum 2.5 GPA and 980 SAT score study the diverse heritage of our human environment for 44 percent on-time graduation. Mentored by Dr. Jeff Anderson, the low-priced, 120-credit, SACS-accredited online degree program starts five times annually with eight-week online courses like American National Government and Historian’s Craft. Warhawks might also pursue the Online M.A. in History, join the Society for Romanian Studies, journey to Spain, and intern at Rosedown Plantation.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Online Tuition: $12,000
Student-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: 44 percent
34. University of North Alabama
Florence, AL
Total Points: 6
Program Website
The University of North Alabama is picked 34th among our best affordable online Bachelor’s in History degree programs with $11,100 expenses. On Canvas, the College of Arts & Sciences has Quality Matters certification for its inexpensive, online B.A./B.S. in History that develops foundational historical knowledge with a 19:1 student-faculty ratio. Coordinated by Dr. Matthew Schoenbachler, the economical, 120-credit, SACS-accredited online degree option ends with the Praxis II Subject Assessment after eight- and 16-week online courses from American Colonial History to Medieval Europe. Lions could also engage in the National Trail of Tears Project, intern with the Muscle Shoals National Heritage Area, and take the London trip.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Bachelor of Science in History
Online Tuition: $11,100
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 46 percent
33. Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Arizona State University has Affordable Schools’ 33rd best online low-cost history degree paths with a $10,918 in-state price. On Canvas since Fall 2018, the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences has bestowed a low-cost, online B.A. in History and unique B.A. in Art History for online learners to perform analysis on compelling historical artifacts with strong 85.2 percent retention. Advised by Dr. Alexander Avina, both high-value, 120-credit, HLC-accredited online bachelor’s share 7.5-week online courses like Methods of Inquiry and Art of Italian Renaissance before the senior project. Sun Devils may also join the Historical Society, earn the Windgate Curatorial Internship, explore Israel, and use the SHPRS Writing Studio.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Bachelor of Arts in Art History
Online Tuition: $10,918
Student-Faculty Ratio: 23:1
Graduation Rate: 48 percent
32. Troy University
Troy, AL
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Troy University is the AS Staff’s 32nd best online affordable accredited college for history degree majors to pay $10,140 per year. On Canvas, the College of Arts & Sciences admits 88.1 percent of prospective B.S. in History students with a minimum 20 ACT or 1030 SAT score into two top-value, online degree concentrations: American/Latin American History or European/Asian/African History. Led by Dr. Allen Jones, the economical, 120-credit, SACS-accredited online degree program splits courses like Civilization of Greece and Middle Eastern Politics into nine-week terms with a 43 percent completion rate. Trojans can also access The Wiregrass Archives, publish in The Alexandrian, join History Club, and intern at Vulcan Museum.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in History
Online Tuition: $10,140
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 43 percent
30. (Tie) Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Natchitoches, LA
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Northwestern State University of Louisiana tied for 30th place among online affordable colleges for history degree options with $9,600 yearly tuition. On Moodle, the Department of Criminal Justice, History & Social Sciences confers a low-cost, online B.A. in History to span cultural changes from ancient to contemporary times with a 19:1 student-faculty ratio. Outlined by Dr. Mark Melder, the economical, 120-credit, SACS-accredited, online degree sequence has eight- or 16-week online courses like History of Louisiana and The French Revolution that mandate 2.0 GPAs. Demons could also join Phi Alpha Theta, win the Kyser Scholarship, add the Secondary Grades 6-12 Certificate, and engage with the Creole Heritage Center.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Online Tuition: $9,600
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 45 percent
30. (Tie) Drury University
Springfield, MO
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Drury University tied for the 30th most affordable college for history degree programs online with a $9,600 in-state rate. On Moodle, the College of Continuing Professional Studies has offered a high-value, online B.S. in History since 2004 to illuminate the past with a 12:1 student-faculty ratio for two custom tracks: General History or History-Secondary Education. Supervised by Dr. Ted Vaggalis, the inexpensive, 120-credit, HLC-accredited, online degree pathways have an Honors Program for minimum 3.75 GPAs throughout eight-week online courses like African-American History and Content Area Literacy. Panthers might also declare the Asian Studies Minor, join History Club, tour Turkey, and intern at Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in History
Online Tuition: $9,600
Student-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 19 percent
29. Arkansas Tech University
Russellville, AR
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Arkansas Tech University is deemed our 29th best online affordable college for history degree studies that charge $9,555 each year. On Blackboard Learn, the College of Arts & Humanities grants a best-value, online B.A. in History to develop logical reasoning skills while investigating the development of society with 72 percent freshman retention. Arranged by Dr. David Blanks, the inexpensive, 120-credit, HLC-accredited online degree splits eight 16-week semesters into short eight-week online modules like Cultural Anthropology and Survey of American History. Golden Suns could also transfer from the A.A. in General Education, earn the M. Diane Gleason Award, intern at The Old State House, and join the Haskins Society.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Online Tuition: $9,555
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 41 percent
28. Ohio Christian University
Circleville, OH
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Ohio Christian University is the AS Staff’s 28th most affordable university for history degree majors with a $9,000 online cost. On D2L Brightspace, the Adult & Graduate Studies Division provides the OnlinePlus BA in History for working adults with minimum 2.5 GPAs and 58 CLT scores to critically reflect on the past three millennia at an 11:1 student-faculty ratio. Overseen by Dr. Jon Kulaga, the top-value, 120-credit, HLC-accredited, online curriculum ends with an undergraduate thesis after eight-week online classes like Gilded Age America and Free Market Thought. Trailblazers can also intern via the Robert W. Plaster Center, take El Salvador missions, and use the $1,000 Military Discount.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Online Tuition: $9,000
Student-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Graduation Rate: 25 percent
27. Nicholls State University
Thibodaux, LA
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Nicholls State University is Affordable Schools’ 28th best online accredited college for history degree tracks that bill $8,901 in-state. Founded in 1948, the College of Liberal Arts now teaches a top-quality B.A. in History majors online on Moodle to better understand precedent times in America, Europe, and Asia for a six-year graduation rate of 45 percent. Administered by Dr. Paul Wilson, the affordable, 120-credit, SACS-approved, online bachelor’s degree follows an eight-week schedule for online courses like History of Women and Physical Geography. Colonels might also intern at the National World War II Museum, join the CLIO-History Club, engage in the Veterans Oral History Project, and minor in Political Science.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Online Tuition: $8,901
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 45 percent
26. Columbia College
Columbia, MO
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Columbia College is designated our 26th most affordable university for history degree programs with a $8,880 online value. On Desire2Learn, the School of Humanities, Arts & Social Sciences starts low-priced, online B.A. in History cohorts six times annually for high school diploma and GED recipients with minimum 2.0 GPAs to synthesize their historical knowledge at a 25:1 student-faculty ratio. Chaired by Dr. Sarah Lirley McCune, the inexpensive, 120-credit, HLC-accredited, online degree plan lasts 3.5 years full-time with eight-week online courses from European Enlightenment to Modern Japan. Cougars can also join the American Historical Association, minor in Ethics, take the Ireland Study Tour, and intern at The Campbell House.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Online Tuition: $8,880
Student-Faculty Ratio: 25:1
Graduation Rate: 30 percent
25. McNeese State University
Lake Charles, LA
Total Points: 6
Program Website
McNeese State University reached the top 25 online affordable colleges for history degree programs with $8,400 pricing. Opened in 1950, the College of Liberal Arts offers a cheap B.A. in History with the General History track online on Moodle and the Social Studies Education Grades 6-12 track on-campus in Kaufman Hall for a 45 percent graduation rate. Headed by Dr. Michael Smith, the first 120-credit, SACS-accredited online major has broader seven-week Web courses like The British Empire and United States Constitutional History. Cowboys/girls could also pledge Phi Alpha Theta, intern at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, use the TOPS Scholarship, and access Frazer Memorial Library.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Online Tuition: $8,400
Student-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: 45 percent
24. University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ
Total Points: 7
Program Website
The University of Arizona ended up 24th in our best online affordable colleges for history degree plans that charge $15,000 in-state. On D2L Brightspace, the College of Social & Behavioral Sciences specializes a top-value, online B.A. in History with five emphases: United States History, Latin American History, European History, Asian/African/Middle History, and Thematic History. Directed by Dr. Alison Futrell, the low-cost, 120-unit, HLC-accredited, online bachelor’s degree has a 64 percent completion rate with 7.5-week online courses like Colonial Mexico and capstone projects. Wildcats may also pursue the Accelerated B.A./M.A., exchange to Westminster, intern at the Holocaust Center, and get the Robidoux Scholarship.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Online Tuition: $15,000
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 64 percent
23. Southwestern Assemblies of God University
Waxahachie, TX
Total Points: 7
Program Website
Southwestern Assemblies of God University boasts our 23rd best affordable online history degree programs with $14,970 tuition. On Blackboard since Spring 2016, the College of Business & Education has awarded a high-value, online History B.A. and Ancient Times B.A. to compare past civilizations from a Christian perspective with a 15:1 student-faculty ratio. Managed by Dr. Paul Brooks, the inexpensive, 120-credit, SACS-approved, online degree pathways accept up to 96 transfer credits to waive certain Bible-based online courses like American History and Near Eastern History. Lions might also intern at the LBJ Presidential Library, add the Texas Teacher Alternative Certification, join the History Society, and excavate in Jordan.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Bachelor of Arts in Ancient Times
Online Tuition: $14,970
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 44 percent
22. University of Memphis
Memphis, TN
Total Points: 7
Program Website
The University of Memphis landed 22nd in the AS Staff’s best online affordable colleges for history degree studies with a $13,890 cost. On Desire2Learn, the College of Arts & Sciences presents a low-priced, online B.A. in History for adults 21 years of age or older to analyze complex events of the human past with a 48 percent graduation rate. Architected by Dr. Daniel Unowsky, the inexpensive, 120-credit, SACS-accredited, online bachelor’s degree sequence culminates with an inquiry project after asynchronous eight- or 16-week online courses like World History Since 1500 and Civil Rights Movement. Tigers could also access McWherter Library, pursue the Online M.A. in History, venture to Poland, and intern at Shiloah National Military Park.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Online Tuition: $13,890
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 48 percent
21. University of Missouri-St. Louis
St. Louis, MO
Total Points: 7
Program Website
The University of Missouri-St. Louis has Affordable Schools’ 21st best online high-value history degree with a $12,765 in-state rate. Since 1963, the College of Arts & Sciences has graduated 1,612 B.A. in History majors at Lucas Hall and 100 percent online on Canvas with a 19:1 student-faculty ratio to promote public interest in the past. Organized by Dr. Laura Westhoff, the economical, 120-credit, HLC-approved, online bachelor’s roadmap offers online courses from U.S. Foreign Relations and Military History to East Asian History. Tritons might also earn the Stanley & Terry Freerks Scholarship, intern at the Boone County Historical Society, join Phi Alpha Theta, and add the Museum Heritage Certificate.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Online Tuition: $12,765
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 52 percent
20. University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth
Dartmouth, MA
Total Points: 7
Program Website
The University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth starts our top 20 best affordable online Bachelor’s in History degree options with a $12,480 in-state fee. On Blackboard, the Online & Continuing Education Division provides a top-value, online History BA and Liberal Arts BA with eight concentrations, including History, to develop critical thinking skills from a historical perspective. Outlined by Dr. Mark Santow, the low-priced, 120-credit, NECHE-accredited, online degree plans have free online tutoring for seven- to 14-week courses like Women in World History and The Holocaust. Corsairs can also join the Alpha Eta Theta Chapter, travel to Cabo Verde, intern at the Frederick Law Olmstead Historic Site, and pursue the Online MAT.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts – History Concentration
Online Tuition: $12,480
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 56 percent
19. Regent University
Virginia Beach, VA
Total Points: 7
Program Website
Regent University is named our 19th best affordable accredited college for history degree programs online priced $11,850 yearly. Since Fall 2005, the College of Arts & Sciences has developed a high-value, online B.A. in History, B.S. in Professional Studies for History, and B.A. in English with European, U.S., and World History concentrations 100 percent on Blackboard. Supervised by Dr. Joshua McMullen, the low-priced, 120-credit, SACS-accredited, online Christian degree tracks progress through eight-week online classes like Historiography and The Revolutionary War to senior seminars. Royals may also intern at Colonial Williamsburg, join the Federalist Society, transfer from the A.A. in History, and access the Charis Institute.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Bachelor of Arts in English – History
Bachelor of Science in Professional Studies – History
Online Tuition: $11,850
Student-Faculty Ratio: 47:1
Graduation Rate: 59 percent
18. Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, TX
Total Points: 7
Program Website
Sam Houston State University is the AS Staff’s 18th best affordable distance education history degree program with $10,410 online tuition. The College of Humanities & Social Sciences considers new B.A. in History majors with a minimum 21 ACT or 1010 SAT score until August 1st, December 1st, and May 15th each year for 74.4 percent admission. Coordinated by Dr. Pinar Emiralioglu, the 120-credit, SACS-accredited sequence compiles 7.5- and 15-week online courses from Archival Studies to African American History on Blackboard. Bearkats could also intern at Sam Houston Memorial Museum, minor in French, travel to Calakmul, and claim the Vivian Reid Mehr Scholarship.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Online Tuition: $10,410
Student-Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Graduation Rate: 52 percent
17. Norfolk State University
Norfolk, VA
Total Points: 7
Program Website
Norfolk State University features Affordable Schools’ 17th most cost-effective history degree online with a $9,622 annual total. On Blackboard Learn, the College of Liberal Arts admits B.A. in History cohorts of 20-30 diverse undergrads with an average 3.15 GPA to explore historical happenings outside the Hampton Roads for 71 percent freshman retention. Arranged by Dr. Khadijah Miller, the 120-credit, SACS-approved major has eight-week mini terms for online courses like Literature of the Western World and African Culture. Spartans can also join the August Wilson Society, intern at the Smithsonian, semester in Namibia, and do Joseph Jenkins Roberts Center research.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Online Tuition: $9,622
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 37 percent
16. Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH
Total Points: 7
Program Website
Southern New Hampshire University is chosen 16th in our online affordable colleges for history degree studies with a $9,600 in-state value. On D2L Brightspace, the College of Online & Continuing Education delivers a top-value, online History B.A. with a 24:1 student-faculty ratio in four specialties: American History, Middle Eastern History, European History, or Military History. Advised by Dr. Steven Shirley, the inexpensive, 120-credit, NECHE-accredited, online degree program has a 30 percent military discount for eight-week online classes like Public Speaking and Religions of the World. Penmen might also intern at Camp Kawanhee, continue for the Online History M.A., explore the Amalfi Coast, and join the Phi Theta Kappa Chapter.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Online Tuition: $9,600
Student-Faculty Ratio: 24:1
Graduation Rate: 54 percent
15. Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR
Total Points: 7
Program Website
Oregon State University marks our top 15 online affordable colleges for history degree tracks with a $9,270 cost per year. The School of History, Philosophy & Religion attracts B.A./B.S. in History majors from 11 countries to learn about the world’s storied past 100 percent online on Canvas or at Milam Hall for a 67 percent six-year graduation rate. Directed by Dr. Katherine Hubler, the inexpensive, 180-unit, NWCCU-accredited online curriculum fills four 11-week quarters with Ecampus courses from History of Human Rights to Historical Perspectives of War. Beavers can also enter the Chiu Scholarly Exchange, add a Medical Humanities Certificate, intern at Benton County Museum, and join the HSA.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Bachelor of Science in History
Online Tuition: $9,270
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 67 percent
14. King University
Bristol, TN
Total Points: 7
Program Website
King University scored 14th place in Affordable Schools’ 14th best online cheap history degree programs with $9,150 annual expenses. On Canvas, the College of Arts & Sciences bestows a high-value, online B.S. in History to examine a broad range of historical eras with a 12:1 student-faculty ratio for successful grad school placement at Auburn, Oxford, Penn State, Princeton, and more. Led by Dr. Martin Dotterweich, the economical, 124-credit, SACS-accredited, online degree path only admits transfers with 45 or more credits and GPAs above 2.2 for online courses like Public History and Cultures in Contact. Lions may also serve in South Africa, intern with the Tennessee Legislature, publish The Holston Journal, and earn Yellow Ribbon benefits.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in History
Online Tuition: $9,150
Student-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 46 percent
13. University of Maine at Presque Isle
Presque Isle, ME
Total Points: 7
Program Website
The University of Maine at Presque Isle has the AS Staff’s 13th best affordable degree in history online that charges $8,560 in-state. On Blackboard, the College of Arts and Sciences confers a low-cost, online B.A. in History & Political Science to reenact past events of cultural or government importance with a 13:1 student-faculty ratio. Architected by Dr. Kimberly Sebold, the best-value, 120-credit, NECHE-accredited, online degree track has a “Finish in Four” guarantee with six accelerated course sessions like Non-Western Civilization and Native American History per year. Owls might also add the Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Education Certificate, intern at Vaughan Homestead, join History Club, and summer in Spain.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History and Political Science
Online Tuition: $8,560
Student-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 35 percent
12. Maryville University of St. Louis
St. Louis, MO
Total Points: 8
Program Website
Maryville University of St. Louis came in 12th among online affordable colleges for history degree programs with a $15,000 flat-rate fee. On D2L Brightspace since 2007, the College of Arts & Sciences has granted a low-priced, online B.A. in History with an above-average 83 percent retention rate by giving undergrads exciting insights into past and current world events. Organized by Dr. Lisa Lillie, the best-value, 120-credit, HLC-accredited, online degree pathway builds history portfolios throughout eight- and 16-week online 24/7 courses from Late Antiquity to Nazi Germany. Saints could also enter the Bascom Honors Program, intern at Gateway Arch National Park, join Latin Club, and continue for an MAEd in Secondary Education.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Online Tuition: $15,000
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 72 percent
11. Mary Baldwin University
Staunton, VA
Total Points: 8
Program Website
Mary Baldwin University is selected 11th in our best affordable online Bachelor’s in History degree programs with a $13,800 price tag. On Blackboard, the College of Arts & Sciences brings more than 175 years of experience online to teach high-quality, online B.A. in History majors with an average 3.57 GPA about pivotal past moments at a 10:1 student-faculty ratio. Supervised by Dr. Martha Walker, the inexpensive, 120-credit, SACS-accredited, online curriculum allows up to 84 transfer credits to skip foundational eight-week online courses like Immigration History and Religion in America. Fighting Squirrels may also intern at the Stonewall Jackson House, become Changemaker Student Research Archivists, and join Phi Alpha Theta.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Online Tuition: $13,800
Student-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Graduation Rate: 47 percent
10. University of Illinois at Springfield
Springfield, IL
Total Points: 8
Program Website
The University of Illinois at Springfield begins our top 10 most affordable online colleges for history degree studies with a $13,015 in-state worth. The College of Liberal Arts & Sciences accepts $50 online applications from incoming B.A. in History majors with more than 30 lower-division transfer credits and GPAs above 2.50 year-round for 52.4 percent admission. Mentored by Dr. Michael Burlingame, the high-value, 120-credit, HLC-approved online degree program logs into Blackboard for eight- and 16-week online courses from Reformation Europe to Islamic Civilization. Prairie Stars can also take the 2+2 McHenry County College track, intern at the Spurlock Museum, win the Chapin Award, and join History Club.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Online Tuition: $13,015
Student-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 51 percent
9. Washington State University
Pullman, WA
Total Points: 8
Program Website
Washington State University is declared our ninth best affordable distance education history degree school with a $10,368 in-state cost. On Canvas since Fall 2012, the College of Arts & Sciences has provided a low-cost, online B.A. in History and B.A. in Humanities with a History Concentration to study the ancestors who came before us for a 59 percent on-time completion rate. Directed by Dr. Matthew Sutton, both top-value, 120-credit, NWCCU-accredited online bachelor’s follow traditional 15-week schedules for online courses like Chinese Civilization and Federal Indian Law. Cougars could also engage in the Hanford History Project, intern at Yakima Valley Museum, join the Gamma Psi Chapter, and win the Thigpen Award.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Bachelor of Arts in Humanities – History Concentration
Online Tuition: $10,368
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 59 percent
8. University of Nebraska at Kearney
Kearney, NE
Total Points: 8
Program Website
The University of Nebraska at Kearney is ranked eighth among online affordable colleges for history degree majors who pay $9,548 in-state. On Canvas since Spring 2018, the College of Arts & Sciences has offered a cheap, online B.A. in History or B.S. in History – Social Science Comprehensive to survey human relations from ancient times to today with a 13:1 student-faculty ratio. Chaired by Dr. Jeff Wells, the high-quality, 120-credit, HLC-accredited online degree options mandate a minimum 2.0 GPA during eCampus courses like Introduction to Latin America and Social Psychology online. Lopers might also join the National Council on Public History, intern at the Durham Museum, trek to Hungary, and minor in Global Peace.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Bachelor of Science in History – Social Science Comprehensive
Online Tuition: $9,548
Student-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 58 percent
7. Eastern New Mexico University
Portales, NM
Total Points: 8
Program Website
Eastern New Mexico University has Affordable Schools’ seventh best-value history degree programs online with a $6,450 in-state cost. On Mediasite, the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences streams live lectures for B.A./B.S. in History majors to gain appreciation of our past within three areas: United States, European, and Non-Western History. Outlined by Dr. Roy Koepp, the economical, 120-credit, HLC-approved, online degree sequence offers Golden Student Success Center services to get through eight-week online classes like Human Geography and Macroeconomics. Greyhounds can also earn the Zondervan Award, join the History Guild, intern at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, and minor in Religion.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Bachelor of Science in History
Online Tuition: $6,450
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 35 percent
6. Clayton State University
Morrow, GA
Total Points: 8
Program Website
Clayton State University stands sixth in the AS Staff’s most affordable colleges for history degree paths online with $5,006 in-state pricing. Since Fall 2003, the Department of Humanities has produced nearly 200 B.A. in History graduates face-to-face at Clayton Hall and online on D2L Brightspace to nurture cross-cultural competency with 70 percent retention. Advised by Dr. Adam Tate, the cheap, 120-credit, SACS-accredited, online bachelor’s offers 24/7 access to six-week, faculty-led online courses like The Reconstruction Era and Caribbean History before the senior thesis. Lakers may also add the Grades 6-12 Endorsement, intern at the Georgia Archives, pledge Phi Alpha Theta, and tour Tokyo.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Online Tuition: $5,006
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 30 percent
5. Eastern Oregon University
La Grande, OR
Total Points: 8
Program Website
Eastern Oregon University broke into our list’s top five affordable online history degree providers with cheap $4,536 tuition. On Canvas since Fall 2014, the College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences has digitized the top-value, online B.A./B.S. in History for undergrads to pull historical threads through past cultures to today’s globalized world with a 17:1 student-faculty ratio. Arranged by Dr. Nicole Howard, the affordable, 180-credit, NWCCU-approved online degree path transfers up to 135 previous credits to tackle 11-week quarter courses like Modern Russia and History of Sexuality online. Mountaineers might also earn the Returning Student Success Award, minor in Rhetoric, explore Chile, and intern with Restore Oregon.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Bachelor of Science in History
Online Tuition: $4,536
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 33 percent
4. Florida International University
Miami, FL
Total Points: 9
Program Website
Florida International University finished fourth among our best affordable online Bachelor’s in History degree programs with a $6,864 in-state rate. The Steven J. Green School of International & Public Affairs accepts $30 applications until August 1st and November 1st to selectively admit 54.1 percent of B.A. in History candidates committed to preservation. Instructed by Dr. Saad Abi-Hamad, the cheap, 120-credit, SACS-accredited, online degree path uses Canvas for seven- or 14-week online courses like Prehistoric Asia and African Diaspora. Panthers can also become Writing in History Tutors, intern at the Frost Art Museum, receive the Darden Pyron Fellowship, and get OHA membership.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Online Tuition: $6,864
Student-Faculty Ratio: 26:1
Graduation Rate: 58 percent
3. University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL
Total Points: 9
Program Website
The University of Central Florida takes bronze as the AS Staff’s third most affordable college for history degree programs with $5,376 online costs. On Canvas since July 2012, the College of Arts & Humanities has granted a best-value, online History BA with a 73 percent graduation rate by engaging undergrads with minimum 2.0 GPAs in critical evaluation of past public affairs. Headed by Dr. Peter Larson, a CAH Award for Excellence recipient, the economical, 120-credit, SACS-approved, online bachelor’s entails online courses like Oral History and Introduction to Historic Preservation. Knights could also minor in Florida Studies, pursue the Dual B.A./M.A., intern with the Leo Frey Institute, and join Art History Club.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Online Tuition: $5,376
Student-Faculty Ratio: 30:1
Graduation Rate: 73 percent
2. University of Alaska Fairbanks
Fairbanks, AK
Total Points: 10
Program Website
The University of Alaska Fairbanks snagged second place in our top online affordable schools for history degree studies priced $6,690 in-state. On Blackboard Learn since Spring 2017, the College of Liberal Arts has provided a low-cost, online B.A. in History with Quality Matters certification and an 11:1 student-faculty ratio to nurture intellectual growth uncovering past secrets. Led by Dr. John Heaton, the inexpensive, 120-credit, NWCCU-approved, online degree track reports an average $62,000 mid-career salary after eCampus courses like Alaskan Native Studies and Historiography online. Nanooks might also join History Club, access Elmer Rasmuson Library, get the Claus Naske Scholarship, and intern with ABEF.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Online Tuition: $6,690
Student-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Graduation Rate: 32 percent
1. Sterling College
Sterling, KS
Total Points: 11
Program Website
Sterling College wins Affordable Schools’ top spot among online affordable colleges for history degree programs with a low-cost $4,050 value. On Canvas, the History Department has awarded the economical, online Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Major since Fall 2017 to follow Christ’s footsteps through past milestones with an interactive 10:1 student-faculty ratio. Managed by Dr. Adam Hill, the low-priced, 120-credit, HLC-accredited, online liberal arts curriculum fulfills Kansas 6-12 teaching licensure with eight-week online courses from Church History to Comparative Government. Warriors may also pledge Alpha Chi, intern at Fort Scott National Historic Site, access Mabee Library, and utilize the Office of Student Success.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in History
Online Tuition: $4,050
Student-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Graduation Rate: 53 percent
Which Careers are Suitable for Affordable History Degree Graduates?
Finishing an online cheap history degree can either prepare you for graduate school to become a historian or unlock other bachelor’s-level careers in the liberal arts. For example, history teachers are certified educators in grades 7-12 who share their knowledge of human nature in engaging lessons. Authors and editors work on publishing best-selling historical texts that tell stories of long ago. Park rangers lead guided tours at national historic landmarks to inform and entertain tourists. Political advisors use their knowledge of past elections and government policies to help candidates win. Museum technicians need bachelor’s history majors to preserve and store artifacts for exhibit collections. Geographers study how the Earth’s surface and civilizations have changed over time. Paralegals apply their learned research skills to prepare legal documents and case notes for attorneys. Registrars keep detailed, organized college records for current and former students. Other potential jobs include public relations officer, cartographer, fundraiser, social science research assistant, convention planner, set designer, and heritage manager.
What is the Salary Potential With an Online High-Value History Degree?
Becoming a historian for a mean annual wage of $66,380 requires completing a master’s degree. The Urban Institute reported that graduate tuition averages $11,100 at public and $25,160 at private colleges each year. Picking online affordable colleges for history degree studies will help undergrads save for this big expense later. Related bachelor’s careers can also provide pay in the meantime. The U.S. Department of Labor calculated an average salary of $46,870 for museum techs. Library assistants receive median income of $36,080. High school history teachers make a mean $64,340. Multimedia collections specialists accrue $52,270 average earnings. Set and exhibit designers are given a median paycheck of $61,020. Documentary directors bring home a $89,840 mean salary. Historical fiction and non-fiction authors reap average profits of $71,920. Conservation technicians earn median compensation of $40,110. National park rangers are rewarded mean income of $38,660. Social science research assistants make $50,420 on average. Geographers report $80,300 median revenue per year.
Are Employers Hiring After Online Cost-Effective History Degree Programs?
Now’s an exciting time to attend an online affordable university for history degree majors and pursue your passion for the humanities. In 2018, Inside Higher Ed found the unemployment rate for history majors was below 3.0 percent. Even better, 90 percent of history bachelor’s grads were satisfied with their workplace. Today’s $21.44 trillion U.S. economy has numerous in-demand history career options. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts employment of historians will jump 6 percent by 2028. Cartographers will see jobs skyrocket by 15 percent. Market research analysts can count on much faster-than-average growth of 20 percent. Hiring of museum workers will speed up by 9 percent. Openings at libraries will increase 6 percent this decade. Producers and directors will experience a 5 percent uptick. The 10-year outlook for social science research assistants shows 7 percent growth. History professors with PhDs will benefit from 11 percent more post-secondary positions. Don’t let people tell you history majors are worthless or impractical. Online top-value history degrees open many doors preserving the past.
AS Staff
February 2020
This concludes our ranking of the top 40 best affordable online history degree programs.
Other Rankings of Interest:
The 50 Most Affordable Colleges with the Best Return
The 10 Most Affordable Law Schools in the United States
20 Best Affordable Online Colleges for Computer Networking Degree
15 Best Affordable Animation Degree Programs (Bachelor’s)
25 Best Colleges for Student Athletes
25 Most Affordable Master’s of Statistics Degrees
20 Tuition-Free Colleges
25 Most Affordable Online Master’s of Business Administration Degrees
25 Most Affordable Online Master’s of Mathematics/ Statistics Education Degrees
The Best Colleges
The Lowest Costs
The Highest Returns