Working historians or history enthusiasts looking to advance their education may face a common challenge: how to gain specialized skills and credentials without pausing their careers or commuting to a campus. Arkansas State University’s online Master of Arts in History program eliminates these barriers through a fully online format that enables students to complete rigorous coursework from anywhere, on a schedule that works for them.
The American Historical Association (AHA) notes that “history majors are uniquely positioned to explore diverse and fulfilling career opportunities.” Whether students seek advancement in their current field, a transition to a new career path or specialized expertise in historical research and preservation, A-State’s online M.A. in History program equips them with the capabilities and credentials needed to achieve their professional goals. While the program prepares graduates for specialized roles such as historian, archivist, museum curator or cultural resource specialist — positions that typically require a master’s degree, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) — the competencies students develop extend far beyond these fields.
Career Advancement Through Graduate Education
A master’s degree can accelerate career progression by qualifying graduates for leadership roles and specialized positions with higher earning potential. According to BLS, professionals with graduate degrees had the lowest unemployment rates and highest earnings in 2024. Graduates with advanced degrees earned median weekly earnings of $1,897 in 2024, compared with $1,541 for those with bachelor’s degrees only.
According to the Council of Graduate Schools, individuals with master’s degrees contribute to economic development through innovation and productivity while demonstrating higher civic engagement. Graduate education provides specialized knowledge that complements existing professional experience, creating opportunities for career transitions and advancement that might otherwise remain inaccessible.
Skills Employers Value in History Graduates
History graduate programs develop transferable competencies that apply across professional contexts. History master’s degree holders demonstrate subject matter expertise, an ability to manage large-scale research projects and a commitment to long-term professional development.
The Chronicle of Higher Education reports that history graduates possess skills and attributes that are highly valued across industries, including analytical thinking, creative problem-solving, curiosity, communication and the ability to learn continuously. These skills enable graduates to handle complex information, synthesize diverse viewpoints and craft compelling narratives that support organizational decision-making.
The AHA notes that the abilities and habits students develop in college history programs align with skills employers seek, such as the ability to conduct critical analysis, connect past events with current situations and understand cultural frameworks. Graduate-level coursework helps students develop effective oral and written communication skills through examination of complex historical topics and presentation of research findings. A-State’s program strengthens these competencies through core courses in historiography and research methods, preparing students to produce original research and articulate historical content effectively across professional settings.
The Flexibility of Online Graduate Study
Online programs allow working professionals to balance education with career and personal responsibilities. Students can complete coursework when it fits their schedules, pursuing degrees without sacrificing current employment or personal commitments.
Online formats enable professionals to apply their learning directly to current job responsibilities, improving effectiveness while building foundations for future advancement. A-State’s fully online delivery accommodates working professionals through courses completed entirely online with no campus visits required, allowing students across geographic locations to access graduate education while maintaining full-time employment.
Accelerated Format and Time to Completion
Accelerated programs reduce traditional completion timeframes while maintaining academic rigor. This quicker pace enables graduates to begin applying new skills in their current role, pursue promotions or qualify for new roles sooner.
The accelerated format proves particularly valuable for professionals seeking to advance their career while they continue to work. Students in A-State’s program can complete coursework online in as few as 12 months through concentrated study.
Invest in Your Future With an Online M.A. in History From A-State
The return on investment in a master’s degree extends far beyond potential salary increases. In addition to positioning graduates for career stability, graduate education equips students with specialized expertise while giving them access to valuable professional networks.
Arkansas State University’s online Master of Arts in History program offers working professionals a flexible pathway to expand their expertise and career opportunities without disrupting their current employment or personal commitments. The program positions graduates to pursue specialized positions in diverse professional fields by leveraging their enhanced analytical skills, historical knowledge and advanced credentials.
Frequently Asked Questions
Prospective students may have questions about A-State’s online Master of Arts in History program. These answers are designed to help you decide if the program is right for you.
How long does it take to complete an online master’s in history?
Arkansas State University’s online M.A. in History can be completed in as few as 12 months for students pursuing full-time accelerated study. Part-time options typically extend the timeline to 18 to 24 months, allowing professionals to balance coursework with work and personal commitments.
Can I work full-time while earning an online master’s?
Online programs are specifically designed for working professionals. The asynchronous format enables students to complete coursework when it fits their schedules rather than attending classes at set times. Many students successfully maintain full-time employment while earning their degrees, applying classroom learning directly to their professional responsibilities.
Do employers respect online degrees?
Accredited online degrees carry the same credibility as campus-based programs. Research indicates that three out of four hiring managers are more likely to consider candidates with online learning experience than before 2020. Employers value the self-discipline and time management skills developed through online study, viewing these competencies as assets in professional settings.
What makes history graduate skills transferable across careers?
History programs develop research, analytical thinking and communication skills which are highly valued across sectors and industries. Graduates learn to evaluate sources, construct evidence-based arguments and present complex information to diverse audiences. These competencies support work in policy analysis, business strategy, cultural programming and organizational leadership.
Is a master’s in history required for museum or archival work?
Most professional positions in museums and archives require or strongly prefer candidates with master’s degrees. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates archivists typically need master’s degrees in history, library science or archival studies. Curators typically need master’s degrees in art history, history, archaeology or museum studies. Graduate education provides specialized knowledge and demonstrates commitment to the field.
What technology or resources do I need for online graduate study?
Online programs require reliable internet access and a computer capable of video conferencing and document processing. Most programs provide access to digital library resources, online databases and research materials through university subscriptions. Students should be comfortable with learning management systems and digital communication tools used for coursework submission and faculty interaction.
About Arkansas State University
Arkansas State University serves students across Arkansas and beyond through comprehensive academic programs designed to meet workforce demands. The university offers online undergraduate, graduate and post-graduate programs that enable working professionals to develop in-demand skills and credentials on a flexible schedule. These programs maintain the same academic standards as its on-campus offerings.
A-State’s programs combine academic rigor with practical application, preparing graduates to address real-world challenges in their chosen fields. Founded in 1909, the university has evolved into a comprehensive research institution committed to student success and regional development.
Arkansas State University’s online Master of Arts in History program provides working professionals with access to graduate education through an online format. Students develop effective historical research skills, produce original research papers and demonstrate competencies in articulating historical content through comprehensive examination requirements. The accelerated program can be completed in as few as 12 months, with multiple start dates throughout the year providing enrollment flexibility.
Learn more about Arkansas State University’s online Master of Arts in History program.