Fully Funded PhD Programs in History

Georgetown University PhD Programs in History

Last updated May 10, 2022

As part of my series on  How to Fully Fund Your PhD , I provide a list of universities that offer full funding for a PhD in History. “Full funding” is a financial aid package for full-time students that includes full tuition remission and an annual stipend or salary for the three to the six-year duration of the student’s doctoral studies. Funding is typically offered in exchange for graduate teaching and research work that is complementary to your studies. Not all universities provide full funding to their doctoral students, which is why I recommend researching the financial aid offerings of all the potential Ph.D. programs in your academic field, including small and lesser-known schools both in the U.S. and abroad.

You can also find several external fellowships in the  ProFellow database  for graduate and doctoral study, as well as dissertation research, fieldwork, language study, and summer work experience.

Would you like to receive the full list of more than 1000+ fully funded programs in 60 disciplines? Download the FREE Directory of Fully Funded Graduate Programs and Full Funding Awards !

Boston University, Department of History (Boston, MA): All applicants accepted for the Ph.D. program will receive full funding for 5 years which includes tuition and University-related fees, travel fellowships are also available.

Columbia University, Department of History (New York City, NY): Every student entering the Ph.D. program will receive a full fellowship (tuition, fees, and a stipend) upon admission. Students awarded such funding upon admission will receive five years of support (except for those entering with advanced standing, who will receive four years of support).

Cornell University, College of Arts and Sciences (Ithaca, NY): Admitted Ph.D. students are guaranteed five years of full funding from Cornell, which will cover tuition, a living stipend, and health insurance. This includes four summer living stipends.

Georgetown University, Department of History (Washington DC): Stipend ($29,000 in 2019-2020) and tuition support (nine credits) for five years, two additional years of tuition support, and health insurance for the duration of the fellowship.

Fordham University (New York, NY): As teaching assistants, you’ll teach your own undergraduate classes. As a Fordham Ph.D., you will develop your teaching skills in a one-on-one pedagogy course and then teach your own class starting in your third year. There are opportunities for full funding and scholarships.

New York University, Department of History (New York City, NY): History doctoral students receive full funding support for five years through the Henry M. MacCracken Fellowship Program which covers tuition, all fees, health insurance, and a 9-month stipend. The MacCracken amount is $31,070. In addition, students receive summer funding.

Pennsylvania State University, Department of History (University Park, PA): Guaranteed four to five years of funding to every student admitted and teaching lectureships offered for another two years for students in good standing to finish up their doctoral program.

University of Notre Dame, College of Arts and Letters (Notre Dame, IN): All graduate students admitted to the Ph.D. program are guaranteed funding for full tuition and a stipend for five years. Funding is also available to support travel to present research papers at conferences and for summer research fellowships.

University of Virginia, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (Charlottesville, Virginia): Students admitted to the Ph.D. program are awarded fellowship packages renewable for up to five years, financial packages include a stipend for living expenses, tuition remission, and cover the cost of University fees and single-coverage health insurance.

University of Washington, Department of History (Seattle, WA): Students in their first five years of study at the University of Washington are guaranteed financial support via Academic Service Employment (TA, RA, SA) that includes a stipend, tuition, and benefits at the rates set by the Graduate School.

Need some tips for the application process? See my article  How To Get Into a Fully Funded PhD Program: Contacting Potential PhD Advisors .

Also, sign up to discover and bookmark more than 1800 professional and academic fellowships in the ProFellow database .

© Victoria Johnson 2020, all rights reserved.

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25 Best Online Doctorate in History Programs Top Online PhD History

Find your degree.

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

Jeremy Alder

Created on December 27, 2020 Updated: July 20, 2024

Best Online Doctorate History 02

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

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

Recommended Online Doctoral Programs

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

Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Online History Doctorate Programs

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

  • Students Success Rate

cc history doctorate research

RankSchoolTypeGraduate Tuition
1. Public$10,770
2. Private$27,810
3. Public$6,885
4. Public$10,170
5. Public$10,133
6. Public$9,119
7. Public$7,092
8. Public$8,723
9. Public$13,726
10. Public$6,318

University of Florida Gainesville, FL

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

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

Degree: Ed.D. in Curriculum & Instruction

School Type: Public

Graduate Tuition: $10,770

Lehigh University Bethlehem, PA

Lehigh University logo

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

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

Degree: Ed.D. Educational Leadership

School Type: Private

Graduate Tuition:$27,810

Texas A&M University

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

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

Degree: ED.D. in Curriculum & Instruction

Graduate Tuition: $6,885

Arizona State University

Arizona State University logo from website

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

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

Degree: EdD in Leadership and Innovation

Graduate Tuition: $10,170

Indiana University-Bloomington Bloomington, IN

Indiana University Bloomington

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

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

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

Graduate Tuition: $10,133

Florida International University Miami, FL

Florida International University logo

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

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

Graduate Tuition: $9,119

University of Arkansas Fayetteville, AR

global campus school of continuing education and academic outreach university of arkansas logo 130262

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

Degree: Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership

Graduate Tuition: $7,092

University of Houston Houston, TX

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

Doctoral History Programs Degree: ED.D in SOCIAL STUDIES

Graduate Tuition: $8,723

George Mason University Fairfax, VA

George Mason University logo

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

Degree: Ph.D. in History

Graduate Tuition: $13,726

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Lincoln, NE

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

Degree: ED.D in Educational Leadership and Higher Education

School Type: Public 

Graduate Tuition: $6,318

Texas Tech University Lubbock, TX

Texas Tech University

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

Degree Type: Ed.D. in Educational leadership

Graduate Tuition: $6,956

University of South Carolina-Columbia Columbia, SC

The University of South Carolina 1

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

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

Graduate Tuition: $13,374

Oregon State University Corvallis, OR

ecampus oregon state university logo 130078

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

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

Graduate Tuition: 13,446

University of North Dakota Grand Forks, ND

office of extended learning university of north dakota logo 130328

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

Degree Type: Ph.D. in Teaching and Leadership

Graduate Tuition: $11,963 

University of Kentucky Lexington, KY

University of Kentucky logo

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

Degree Type: Ed.D in Educational Leadership

Graduate Tuition: $12,967

Andrews University Berrien Springs, MI

Andrew University logo

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

Degree Type: Ph.D. in Educational Leadership

Graduate Tuition: $27,380

Drexel University Philadelphia, PA

Drexel University logo from website

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

Degree Type: Ed. D In Educational Leadership and Management

Graduate Tuition: $36,234

Fordham University Bronx, NY

Fordham University logo

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

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

Graduate Tuition: $25,080

Liberty University Lynchburg, VA

Liberty University logo from website

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

Degree Type: Ph.D. in History

Graduate Tuition: $7,740

Concordia University-Chicago River Forest, IL

Concordia University Chicago logo

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

Degree Type: Ph.D. in Leadership

Graduate Tuition: $10,458

Regent University Virginia Beach, VA

distance education regent university logo 130113

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

Doctoral Degree Type: Ph.D in Education

Graduate Tuition: $16,128

Wilmington University New Castle, DE

wilmington university logo 9737

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

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

Graduate Tuition: $9,432

Franklin University Columbus, OH

Franklin University logo from website

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

Doctoral Degree Type: DPS in Instructional Design Leadership

Graduate Tuition: $12,060

University of the Cumberlands Williamsburg, KY

University of the Cumberlands logo from website

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

Doctoral Degree Type: Ph.D. in Leadership Studies

Graduate Tuition: $4,260

Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, FL

Keiser University

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

Doctoral Degree Type: Ph.D. in Educational Leadership

Graduate Tuition: $33,390

Why Should I Get My PhD in History Online?

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

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

How Do I Choose an Online History PhD?

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

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

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

How Much Can I Make with a PhD in History? 

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

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Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024

free history phd

Key Takeaways

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

Featured Programs

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

What are online PhD programs in history?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Man using a math compass at a desk

About Accredited Online History PhD Programs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Admission Requirements

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

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

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

Curriculum and Courses

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

Woman on a video call with a pencil in hand

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

The typical components of your online PhD program may include:

Foundational Courses

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

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

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

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

Examinations for PhD Candidacy

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

Dissertation

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

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

Oral Defense

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

Teaching Requirements

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

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

Careers for Students Who Complete Online Doctoral History Programs

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

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

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

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

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

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

Woman with glasses studying

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

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

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

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

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

The Best Online History Doctorates (PhDs)

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

George Mason University

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

Tuition + fees

Student body

Median SAT/ACT

Career Outlook for History degree at George Mason University

What do we love about george mason university.

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

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

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

George Mason offers an online PhD in History degree program.

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

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

University of Houston

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

Career Outlook for History degree at University of Houston

What do we love about the university of houston.

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

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

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

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

Prefer the personal attention of a small school.

Liberty University

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

What do we love about Liberty University?

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

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

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

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

Students who do not identify with Evangelical Christianity.

Regent University

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

What do we love about Regent University?

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

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

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

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

Prefer a secular educational experience.

Other Options for Aspiring History PhDs

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

University of California, Berkeley

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

Career Outlook for History degree at University of California, Berkeley

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

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

Most Influential Alumni

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

University of Michigan

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

Career Outlook for History degree at University of Michigan

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

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

New York University

  • #13 Best Universities in the World 2024
  • #23 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
  • #2 Best Colleges in New York 2024
  • #2 Best Research Universities in New York 2024
  • #2 Best Grad Schools in New York 2024
  • #2 Best Private Colleges in New York 2024
  • #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
  • #3 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
  • #3 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
  • #7 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
  • #7 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
  • #8 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
  • #8 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
  • #12 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
  • #12 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
  • #12 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
  • #14 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
  • #15 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
  • #15 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
  • #15 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
  • #15 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
  • #15 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
  • #18 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
  • #18 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
  • #23 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
  • #23 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
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New York University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

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

University of California, Los Angeles

  • #7 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges
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Career Outlook for History degree at University of California, Los Angeles

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

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

University of Florida

  • #9 Online Colleges with the Most Generous Financial Aid in 2024
  • #16 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024
  • #20 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2024
  • #1 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2024
  • #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2024
  • #1 Best Colleges in Florida 2024
  • #1 Best Research Universities in Florida 2024
  • #1 Best Public Colleges in Florida 2024
  • #1 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
  • #11 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
  • #14 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
  • #15 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
  • #16 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
  • #21 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
  • #21 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
  • #22 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
  • #23 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
  • #23 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
  • #25 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
  • #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Anthropology
  • #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Florida 2024
  • #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Biology
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Career Outlook for History degree at University of Florida

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

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

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

Department of History

Ph.d. programs.

The Department of History’s doctoral degree program seeks to train talented historians for careers in scholarship, teaching, and beyond the academy. The department typically accepts 22 Ph.D. students per year. Additional students are enrolled through various combined programs and through HSHM.  All admitted Ph.D. students receive a  full  financial aid package  from the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. 

History of Science and Medicine

The  Program in the History of Science and Medicine  (HSHM)  is a semi-autonomous graduate track within the Department of History. HSHM students receive degrees in History, with a concentration in the History of Science and Medicine.  There is a separate admissions process for students interested in the History of Science and Medicine. For more information, please see the  HSHM website . 

Combined Doctoral Programs

Joint ph.d. programs.

PhD in History

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Study History Where It Is Made

AU’s PhD in History will prepare you for a career as an educator, researcher, analyst, and writer working in academia, public and institutional history, and other fields requiring investigative and analytical skills. In this program, you will develop a deeper understanding of how historians investigate and interpret the past while you explore the past with your own original research .

You will receive a high level of mentorship and develop close working relationships with your professors. Under the guidance of our award-winning faculty , our students complete strong dissertations and present work at top conferences while making valuable connections and gaining experience in the Washington, DC, area.

This program is ideal for students interested in American and modern European history, including Russian history. Our department also has strengths in a variety of subfields , including public history, African American history, women’s/gender history, politics and foreign relations, and Jewish history. This diversity will open your options for research and allow for specialization without sacrificing breadth of study.

Rigorous Study with a Degree of Flexibility

Our program combines rigorous training in scholarship with the flexibility to pursue your intellectual interests. Our coursework will give you a solid foundation in historical theory and methodology, research methods, and United States or modern European history. Together with your academic advisor, you will design a program of study to match your academic goals . You will acquire and demonstrate mastery of tools of research , such as foreign languages, quantitative research methods, oral history, new media, and other methodologies. Your doctoral examinations will be tailored to fit your individual fields of study. You will then pursue your own research in writing your doctoral dissertation.

The Department will supervise PhD dissertations in the history of Modern Europe (normally for the period 1789 to the present), United States history (including the colonial period), US foreign relations, and modern Jewish history.

See all admissions and course requirements .

Cutting-Edge Faculty Dedicated to Your Success

Our history faculty makes national news, uncovers under-represented areas of history, and guides doctoral students , helping them generate innovative and influential research . From predicting presidential elections to publishing award-winning books and articles, our distinguished professors produce relevant historical scholarship and will train you do the same. With academic and professional mentorship from our faculty, you will you will enter the field as a thoroughly prepared and well-connected scholar.

Endless Opportunities in a Historic City

Pursuing your doctorate in the nation’s capital provides you with unparalleled access to renowned museums, archives, institutions, and resources . From the Library of Congress, Smithsonian Institution and National Archives to the DC Historical Society, our students are only a metro ride away from exceptional local and national repositories. As part of the Washington Consortium , students at American University are able to take courses at colleges and universities throughout the DC metropolitan area, providing the opportunity to work with a variety of faculty in diverse programs and fields of study.

A truly global city, DC, contains hundreds of embassies, cultural organizations, and enclave communities. Brimming with history , the DC area offers Civil War battlefields, the Capitol, Mount Vernon, the White House, and countless landmarks of the colonial period, Revolutionary War, Civil War, and more recent American history. The city is also home to smaller historical organizations like the DC Historical Society and the DC Preservation League. Whether your interest is global, national, or local, this historic city undoubtedly has something for you.

Explore the Possibilities

Our students go on to become university and college faculty and administrators or work in federal and state governments, for museums and archives, and in other exciting fields. Our alumni teach at universities around the world , from the University of Houston in Texas to University of Prince Edward Island in Canada and Ludwig Maximilians Universität in Munich. Our PhDs hold positions with the nation’s most important institutions , including the Library of Congress, Department of State, National Archives and Records Administration, American Historical Association, National Endowment for the Humanities, US Holocaust Memorial Museum, and the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Recent and Current PhD Dissertation topics

  • Auketayeva, Laura : "Gender and Jewish Evacuees in the Soviet Union during the Holocaust" 
  • Barry, Michael : "Islamophobic & Anti-Islamophobic Ideas in America"
  • Brenner, Rebecca : "When Mail Arrived on Sundays, 1810-1912" 
  • Boose, Donelle : "Black Power and the Organizing Tradition: Work-ing Women of Washington, DC. 1965-1990"
  • Chatfield, Andrew : "American Support for India’s Self-Determination from 1915-1920: Progressives, Radicals, and Anti-Imperialists"
  • Duval, Lauren : "Landscapes of Allegiance: Space, Gender, and Mili-tary Occupation in the American Revolution"
  • Englekirk, Ryan : "The Third Team: Unmasking Fraternity and Mascu-linity Among Major League Baseball Umpires 1970-2010" 
  • Estess, Jonah : "The People’s Money: The American Revolution, Cur-rency, and the Making of Political Economic Culture in American Life, 1775-1896" 
  • Frome, Gavin : "American Protestant Service Workers in Viet Nam, 1954-1975"
  • Gabor, Ruth : "'Moda' for the Masses: Moscow Fashion’s Appeal at Home and Abroad during the Cold War"
  • Gibson, Laura : "It’s Love that Counts: The History of Non-Nuclear Families in American Domestic Sitcoms"
  • Grant, Jordan : "Catchers and Kidnappers: Slave Hunting in Early America" 
  • Grek, Ivan : "Illiberal Civil Society in Russia, 1992-2000"
  • Harris, Curtis : "Hardwood Revolution: The NBA's Growth & Player Revolt, 1950-1976" 
  • Hawks, Julie : "Capital Investments: Engineering American Cold War Culture" 
  • Jobe, Mary "Allison" : "'We Remember Him for His Character': The Life of James W. Ford and the Communist Party USA" 
  • Kaplan, Anna : "Left by the Wayside: Memories and Postmemories of the Integration of the University of Mississippi"
  • Killian, Linda : "Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Paine: The Shared Political Ideology at the Heart of American Democracy" 
  • Kitterman, Katherine : "'No Ordinary Feelings': Mormon Women’s Political Activism, 1870-1896" 
  • Langford, Amy : "Creating a Body Politic: Boundary Crossings and the (Re) Making of Latter-Day Saints on the U.S. Border, 1885-1920"
  • Levin, Jeffrey : "Felix Warburg and the Establishment of the Hebrew University" 
  • MacNeill, Lindsay : "Policing Politics in Austria, 1918-1955"
  • Milwicki, Alon : "Baptizing Nazism: An Analysis of the Religious Roots of American Neo-Nazism"
  • Rafferty-Osaki, Terumi : "'Strictly Masculine': Reforming and Per-forming Manhood at Tule Lake, 1942-1946" 
  • Recordati, Maurizio : "Russia Turns Inward: Russian Grand Strategy in the Post-Crimean War Period (1856-78)"
  • Sowry, Nathan : "Museums, Native American Representation, & the Public: The Role of Museum Anthropology in Public History, 1873-1929"
  • Styrna, Pawel : "Polish-Russian Relations, 1904-1921"
  • Vehstedt, Scott : "'Lets Help Finland': The Return of American Relief Aid in the Winter War, 1939-1940"
  • Weixelbaum, Jason : "At the Crossroads of Fascism: The Decision of Ford, General Motors, and IBM to do Business with Nazi Germany"

Alumni Job Placements

Graduates of the history PhD program are working as professors, researchers, and directors across the US and at international locations. Here is a list of where select graduates have or are currently working:

  • Director, National Coalition for History
  • Assistant Professor, University of Prince Edward Island
  • Assistant Professor, Towson University
  • Assistant Professor of History and Director of American Studies, West Chester University
  • Independent historian
  • Senior Archivist, National Archives
  • Associate Professor, Ryerson University
  • Assistant Professor, University of Arkansas at Little Rock
  • Historian, US Army
  • Senior policy adviser and special assistant to the president of the Humane Society
  • Historian, Office of the Historian, Department of State
  • Museum Director, Renton History Museum, Oregon
  • Public History Coordinator, American Historical Association
  • Assistant Professor, Bridgewater State University
  • Lecturer in Sociology, California State University at Bakersfield
  • Assistant Professor, Delaware State University
  • Historian, Global Classroom, US Holocaust Museum
  • Director, Digital Archive, Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library
  • Assistant Professor, Illinois State University
  • Adjunct Professor, University of Maryland at College Park
  • Senior Fellow, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
  • Assistant Professor, University of West Florida
  • Independent historian and filmmaker
  • Adjunct Assistant Professor of History, US Naval Academy
  • Administrative Support Specialist at FEMA
  • Senior editor and writer, National Endowment for the Humanities
  • Instructor, Religion Dept., National Cathedral School (earned Master of Divinity after PhD)
  • Curriculum and Publications Coordinator, AU Registrar's Office
  • Assistant Professor, Seminole State College

News & Notes

PhD candidate Reza Akbari presented at the Middle East Studies Association's annual conference in Montreal, Canada. His presentation,  Etched in Mistrust: Continuity and Change in US-Iran Nuclear Negotiations (1969-1978),  argued that America's drive to keep Iran's nuclear program peaceful began decades before the establishment of the Islamic Republic.

PhD candidate  Andrew Sperling  published " A Halloween Party in Boston Turned Ugly when a Gang Hurled Antisemetic Slurs and Attacked Jewish Teenagers ," detailing the events of an antisemetic attack on Jewish teens at a Halloween party in 1950. 

Theresa Runstedtler 's new book on Black ballplayers of the 1970s and '80s setting the NBA up for success: Black Ball: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Spencer Haywoof, and the Generation that Saved the Soul of the NBA (2023) .

Doctoral student Maurizio Recordati Koen won first prize in the 2022 Trench Gascoigne Essay Competition for "The Stuff of Strategy: How Sublime Strategics Turned into a Real Thing" in RUSI Journal.

John Schmitz (CAS/PhD '07) published Enemies among Us: The Relocation, Internment, and Repatriation of German, Italian, and Japanese Americans during the Second World War .

Doctoral student Jonah Estess presented his paper, "Mo’ Money, Mo’ Problems: The American Revolution and the National Origins of the Politicization of Money" as part of the panel at this year's Business History Conference.

Andrew Demshuk published Three Cities after Hitler: Redemptive Reconstruction across Cold War Borders .

PhD candidate Katherine Kitterman wrote on women's voting rights in Utah for the Washington Post.

Nguyet Nguyen

Inaugural Postdoctoral Fellow

Nguyet Nguyen brings new perspective to the Vietnam War.

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2015 History Dept. Ph.D Candidates

Graduate Students

Learn more about our  students' research interests and dissertation projects.

CURRENT STUDENTS

Ph.D. Program

Stanford Ph.D. Program in History aims to train world-class scholars.

Every year we admit 10-12 promising students  from a large pool of highly selective applicants. Our small cohort size allows more individual work with faculty than most graduate programs in the United States and also enables funding in one form or another available to members of each cohort.

Fields of Study

Our graduate students may specialize in 14 distinct subfields: Africa, Britain, Early Modern Europe, East Asia, Jewish History, Latin America, Medieval Europe, Modern Europe,  Ottoman Empire and Middle East, Russia/Eastern Europe, Science, Technology, Environment, and Medicine, South Asia, Transnational, International, and Global History, and United States. Explore each field and their affiliates . 

The department expects most graduate students to spend no less than four and no more than six years completing the work for the Ph.D. degree. Individual students' time to degree will vary with the strength of their undergraduate preparation as well as with the particular language and research requirements of their respective Major fields.

Expectations and Degree Requirements

We expect that most graduate students will spend no less than four and no more than six years toward completing their Ph.D. Individual students' time-to-degree vary with the strength of their undergraduate preparation as well as with the particular language and research requirements of their respective subfield.

All History Ph.D. students are expected to satisfy the following degree requirements:

  • Teaching: Students who enter on the Department Fellowship are required to complete 4 quarters of teaching experience by the end of their third year. Teaching experience includes teaching assistantships and teaching a Sources and Methods course on their own.
  • Candidacy : Students apply for candidacy to the PhD program by the end of their second year in the program.
  • Orals:  The University Orals Examination is typically taken at the beginning of the 3rd year in the program.
  • Languages: Language requirements vary depending on the field of study.
  • Residency Requirement : The University requi res  135 units of full-tuition residency  for PhD students. After that, students should have completed all course work and must request Terminal Graduate Registration (TGR) status. 

Browse the Ph.D. Handbook to learn more .

The History Department offers 5 years of financial support to PhD students.  No funding is offered for the co-terminal and terminal M.A. programs. A sample Ph.D. funding package is as follows:  

  • 1st year: 3 quarters fellowship stipend and 1 summer stipend 
  • 2nd year: 2 quarters TAships, 1 quarter fellowship stipend, and 1 summer stipend 
  • 3rd year: 2 quarters TAships, 1 quarter fellowship stipend, and 1 summer stipend 
  • 4th year: 3 quarters fellowship stipends and 1 summer stipend 
  • 5th year: 3 quarters fellowship stipends and 1 summer stipend

Knight-Hennessy Scholars

Join dozens of  Stanford School of Humanities and Sciences students  who gain valuable leadership skills in a multidisciplinary, multicultural community as  Knight-Hennessy Scholars  (KHS). KHS admits up to 100 select applicants each year from across Stanford’s seven graduate schools, and delivers engaging experiences that prepare them to be visionary, courageous, and collaborative leaders ready to address complex global challenges. As a scholar, you join a distinguished cohort, participate in up to three years of leadership programming, and receive full funding for up to three years of your studies at Stanford. candidates of any country may apply. KHS applicants must have earned their first undergraduate degree within the last seven years, and must apply to both a Stanford graduate program and to KHS. Stanford PhD students may also apply to KHS during their first year of PhD enrollment. If you aspire to be a leader in your field, we invite you to apply. The KHS application deadline is October 9, 2024. Learn more about  KHS admission .

How to Apply

Admission to the History Graduate Programs are for Autumn quarter only.  Interested applicants can online at  https://gradadmissions.stanford.edu/apply/apply-now and submit the following documents: 

  • Statement of Purpose (included in Application)
  • 3 Letters of Recommendation
  •  Transcripts are required from all prior college level schools attended for at least one year.  A scanned copy of the official transcript is submitted as part of the online application.  Please do not mail transcripts to the department.   We will ask only the admitted students to submit actual copies of official transcripts.
  • 1 Writing Sample on a historic topic (10-25 pages; sent via  Stanford's online application system  only)
  • The GRE exam is not required for the autumn 2025 admission cycle
  • TOEFL for all international applicants (whose primary language is not English) sent via ETS. Our University code is 4704.
  • TOEFL Exemptions and Waiver information
  • Application Fee Waiver
  • The department is not able to provide fee waivers. Please see the link above for the available fee waivers and how to submit a request. Requests are due 2 weeks before the application deadline.

The Department of History welcomes graduate applications from individuals with a broad range of life experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds who would contribute to our community of scholars. Review of applications is holistic and individualized, considering each applicant’s academic record and accomplishments, letters of recommendation, and admissions essays in order to understand how an applicant’s life experiences have shaped their past and potential contributions to their field.

The Department of History also recognizes that the Supreme Court issued a ruling in June 2023 about the consideration of certain types of demographic information as part of an admission review. All applications submitted during upcoming application cycles will be reviewed in conformance with that decision.

Application deadline for Autumn 2025-26 is Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at 11:59pm EST . This is a hard -not a postmark- deadline. 

All application material is available online. No information is sent via snail mail. Interested applicants are invited to view a Guide to Graduate Admissions at  https://gradadmissions.stanford.edu/ . 

Questions? 

Please contact  Arthur Palmon  (Assistant Director of Student Services).

Department Bookshelf

Browse the most recent publications from our faculty members.

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Italian Fascism in Rhodes and the Dodecanese Islands, 1922–44

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A World Made by Travel: The Digital Grand Tour

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The Chinese Computer: A Global History of the Information Age

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In the Shadow of Liberty: The Invisible History of Immigrant Detention in the United States

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Uncertain Past Time: Empire, Republic, and Politics | Belirsiz Geçmiş Zaman: İmparatorluk, Cumhuriyet Ve Siyaset

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Graduate Program

Graduate program overview  .

The goal of the doctoral program is to train students to become both skilled scholars and conscientious teachers. Throughout the program students work with advisors and other faculty members as they engage in coursework , prepare for and take the  general exam , work as teaching fellows , and research and write the dissertation . On average it takes seven years to receive the doctoral degree*. Most graduates have pursued academic careers at universities and colleges in the United States and abroad, while others have gone on to successful careers in law and in government.

As a large research university, Harvard offers many resources and opportunities for its students in the form of lectures , conferences , research centers , fellowships, and grants . Students have access to the more than 80  libraries and 15 million volumes that comprise the Harvard University Library, the largest university library in the world.

Additionally, students may take courses offered by other departments in the Faculty of Arts & Sciences, or at other Harvard schools , such as Harvard Divinity School , Harvard Law School , Harvard Graduate School of Education , and Harvard Kennedy School .

In coordination with Harvard Law School, students may pursue both a PhD in history and a JD at the Law School . To learn more about this course of study consult the Coordinated JD/PhD program overview.

* The History Department does not offer a terminal master's program.

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History, PhD

The Graduate Program in History at the University of Pennsylvania has a long tradition of distinction. Beginning as one of the first programs in the United States to offer doctoral study in history, (the first Ph.D. in History was conferred in 1891); the Department continues to pioneer new areas of scholarship. In the last twenty years, faculty members of the departments in American, European, and World History have assumed a leading role in their fields. Today, few departments in the country match Penn's Department of History in coverage and depth across the entire range of history from medieval times to the present.

For more information: http://www.history.upenn.edu/graduate/program-guidelines

View the University’s Academic Rules for PhD Programs .

Sample Plan of Study

The total course units required for graduation is 14.

Course List
Code Title Course Units
Year 1
Fall
Proseminar in History
Spring
Proseminar in History
Qualifying Examination
Year 2
Fall
Spring
Year 3
Complete course requirements
Teaching Requirements
Complete language requirement before Candidacy Examination
Candidacy Examination
Year 4 and Beyond
Dissertation Research

Program Milestones

  • Language and Technical Competency Requirement
  • Field Requirements
  • Teaching Requirement

The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2024 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.

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Department of History

PhD in History (by distance learning)

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

Year of entry: 2024/25

  Length Start dates ( )
PhD by distance learning

3-4 years full-time
4-6 years part-time

January
September

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

Your research

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

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

[email protected]

Related links

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

3rd in the UK for research impact

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

Committed to equality

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

Access to exclusive resources

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

free history phd

Explore funding for postgraduate researchers in the Department of History.

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Supervision

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

Training and support

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

free history phd

Course location

This course is run by the Department of History.

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

Entry requirements

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

English language requirements

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

Check your English language requirements

Apply for this course

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

Find out more about how to apply .

Identify a supervisor

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

Find a supervisor

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

Careers and skills

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

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

Career opportunities

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

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The Best Free PhD Programs 2024. Fully funded PhD programs (Online PhD)

Navigating the complexities of PhD programs, one term often dominates the discourse – “fully funded”.

It represents a golden opportunity wherein all tuition fees and living expenses are covered by the educational institution, allowing students to focus on their research and studies free from financial constraints.

In this blog post, we explore what fully funded really means, share the my personal journey of pursuing a PhD in Australia, delve into the policies of various countries offering free or nearly free PhD programs, and provide key tips for securing a fully funded PhD opportunity.

Whether you’re considering a domestic program or an international adventure, the insights and tips offered here could pave the way to an invaluable, financially stress-free academic journey.

Fully funded online PhD and doctoral programs in the US

Here are some examples of PhD programs in the states that have been free and fully funded through scholarships and other grants that you may be able to apply for:

Online and On-Campus Doctoral Degrees

Free PhD programs online in the USA

  • Applicants to the Ph.D. in English program at UCLA are automatically considered for various funding options. A six-year funding package includes “a minimum of two years of full fellowship, four years of summer stipend support, and up to four years of teaching assistantships.” Beyond tuition, fees and health insurance are also covered.

Connecticut

  • At Yale University, the School of Nursing offers full funding to its Ph.D. students. They receive a monthly stipend for four years in addition to paid tuition and health care.

District of Columbia

  • Georgetown University offers scholarships and assistantships that cover full tuition and include a stipend and health insurance for the first five years to students in its PhD program in computer science.
  • Students enrolled in the economics Ph.D. program at Emory University typically receive full funding. The stipend provided to students is $36,376 per year for five years, starting in fall 2023, and the full tuition scholarship is worth $70,200 per year. Funding for admitted students also includes a $4,370 annual subsidy that covers 100% of a student’s cost of health insurance. First-year students have no stipend-related work requirements.
  • The University of Chicago provides funding for up to eight years of study for its anthropology PhD students. This includes a full-tuition scholarship, health insurance, and a living stipend of $33,000 for the 2022-2023 academic year. Students are also eligible to apply for external fellowships.
  • University of Notre Dame doctoral students are guaranteed five years of funding, ensuring that their doctorate program is supported financially. Funding includes a full scholarship, including tuition and fees, plus a stipend and health insurance, making it similar to free tuition.
  • The Tippie College of Business at the University of Iowa provides full funding to “virtually all admitted students.” This includes tuition and fees, a minimum nine-month stipend of about $20,000 with annual adjustments, and 90% coverage of comprehensive health insurance. Additional funding is also provided for research presentations at major conferences, summer fellowships, and paid time off for independent research.
  • At the University of Maryland’s Harriet Tubman Department of Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies, Ph.D. students without a master’s degree usually have five years of guaranteed funding. Those with a master’s degree usually are funded four years, with awards stemming from a mix of departmental fellowships and graduate teaching assistantships.

Massachusetts

  • The T.H. Chan School of Public Health at Harvard University offers a PhD in biological sciences in public health, providing expertise in disease prevention and treatment. This program includes tuition, a stipend, and health insurance for five years, assuming students maintain satisfactory academic progress. Current research involves diseases such as AIDS, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, malaria, and tuberculosis.
  • Students enrolled at the Sloan School of Management at MIT have the opportunity to study various fields, such as organization studies, accounting, and information technology. They receive a full-tuition scholarship, a monthly stipend of $4,267, medical insurance, new laptops at the start of their first and fourth years of study, and $4,500 over five years for conference travel expenses.
  • Doctoral students studying English at Boston University receive a stipend plus full tuition, fees, and basic health insurance. This funding is guaranteed for at least five years, with two of those years typically free from teaching requirements. Funding can sometimes be extended up to seven years, but it’s not guaranteed. Students may also apply for various prizes, fellowships, and short-term research and travel grants.
  • Doctoral students in engineering at the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor are guaranteed full funding, a monthly living stipend, and health insurance. The exact amount can vary and funding comes from a range of sources, including graduate student instructor positions and fellowships.
  • Students admitted to the Ph.D. program to study psychology at the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities are guaranteed full funding for five years as long as they maintain satisfactory performance and degree progress. This funding includes full-time tuition, a nine-month stipend, and subsidized health insurance.
  • PhD students in computer science or computer engineering at Washington University in St. Louis receive full tuition support, health insurance, a generous stipend for living expenses, and a new high-end Apple laptop computer. This support is guaranteed as long as students continue to make satisfactory progress towards their degree.
  • Full-time NYU Steinhardt Ph.D. students are eligible for a funding package that includes an annual stipend – $32,000 for the 2022-2023 academic year – tuition coverage for required coursework and student health insurance for five years.
  • All students admitted to the interdisciplinary management Ph.D. program at the Binghamton University—SUNY School of Management in New York receive a combination of a full-tuition scholarship and a teaching or research assistantship for each academic year, up to four years.
  • Cornell University offers full funding to all students admitted to its PhD program in chemical engineering. This funding can come from a teaching assistantship, research assistantship, or fellowship, and full stipends are granted for nine months, with the likelihood of additional aid in the summer.
  • Columbia University provides fully funded tuition and a $25,000 annual stipend for three years to students enrolled in its PhD program in clinical psychology. This stipend also carries into the student’s fourth year, during which they may be expected to serve as a graduate teaching or research assistant.

North Carolina

  • Doctoral students at Duke University studying materials science and engineering generally receive full tuition, a stipend, and fee support for the first five years. Students also receive up to six years of health insurance if they are on the university’s student medical insurance plan.

Pennsylvania

  • The University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education provides full funding to Ph.D. students as part of a fellowship and research apprenticeship package. This funding includes a living stipend, health insurance and coverage of tuition and fees for up to four years if the student maintains full-time enrollment. Some students may also qualify for additional summer funding.
  • Students admitted to Bryn Mawr College’s Ph.D. program in social work receive full tuition waivers and “substantial stipends” toward living expenses.
  • University of Notre Dame doctoral students are guaranteed five years of funding. Funding includes a full scholarship, including tuition and fees, plus a stipend and health insurance.

Rhode Island

  • Brown University guarantees full financial support for five years to its PhD students in computer science. This includes tuition remission, a stipend, health services fees, and a subsidy for health insurance.
  • Funding is guaranteed for all admitted doctoral students enrolled in the special education Ph.D. program at Vanderbilt University. This includes full tuition, a “competitive” monthly stipend, and health insurance for up to four years.
  • Rice University offers full financial assistance to students admitted to the PhD program at the Jones Graduate School of Business. This includes a research or teaching assistantship, a tuition waiver, and a $40,000 annual stipend, contingent upon maintaining satisfactory academic progress and full-time student status.
  • All students admitted to the University of Virginia’s Ph.D. in Nursing program are eligible for four years of scholarship funding to cover tuition, insurance, and fees, as well as annual stipends. To receive certain aid, students must work 10 hours per week as a graduate teaching assistant.

Washington D.C.

  • American University offers doctoral students in its international relations program who do not have external funding a renewable four-year Dean’s Fellowship that is contingent on making satisfactory academic progress. The fellowship includes the cost of tuition, fees, and a stipend that must be earned via a part-time role as a teaching or research assistant.
  • The University of Wisconsin—Madison guarantees full funding for the duration of the time doctoral students are expected to be on campus. This funding may come from financial aid, fellowships, assistantships, and/or traineeships. In addition, doctoral students receive a benefits package that includes health insurance.

Can you get a fully funded PhD program online – the truth about doctoral programs!

It is very uncommon to find a fully free online PhD program – Universities are businesses and want you to pay money to get their qualifications.  Also, it is very common for PhD students to get paid via stipends throughout their PhD.

However, there are countries that offer scholarships and fee-waived places in their doctoral programs – check that out below!

Typically, Ph.D. programs require tuition unless otherwise stated or funded by scholarships, grants, or assistantships.

ProgramUniversityDurationPay Tuition (Yes/No)Key Features
Chatham University1 YearYesSynchronous online classes, immersive clinicals, certification eligibility
Breyer State Theology University1 YearYesAsynchronous learning, live classes, dissertation completion in one year
American International Theism University (AITU)1 YearYesVideo lectures, discussions, immersive retreats
Boston University18 MonthsYesFully online, 7-week accelerated courses, no dissertation required
Frontier Nursing University18-20 MonthsYesOnline program, no GMAT/GRE required, no clinical hours
Maryville UniversityVariesYesLive online classes, self-paced learning, virtual labs and simulations
University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill24 MonthsYesFully online, part-time program, workplace application credits
Grand Canyon University24 Months or LessYesAsynchronous and live virtual classes, personalized faculty support
Liberty University30 MonthsYesFully online, 8-week courses, no dissertation required
University of West GeorgiaVariesYesSynchronous evening classes, self-paced learning, experiential projects

In general, online Ph.D. programs require tuition payments, but financial aid options such as scholarships, grants, and assistantships can reduce or cover costs for eligible students, making these online phd studies more accessible.

Always check the specific program details for financial aid opportunities.

What Does Fully Funded Mean In a Doctorate Program?

The concept of a “fully funded” PhD program signifies that the entirety of expenses related to the doctoral program is covered. This includes tuition fees, which are either waived or entirely paid for by the educational institution.

Beyond tuition, the program also encompasses a living stipend or allowance given to doctoral students. 

Fully funded PhD programs essentially function as a comprehensive scholarship, covering everything from tuition fees to books and other necessary supplies.

While the stipend amount can vary based on the institution, it is generally sufficient to cater to the basic living expenses of the students, covering rent, food, and transportation costs.

The main aim of providing this stipend to doctoral students is to facilitate a learning environment where they can focus entirely on their studies, research, and dissertation, without the distraction of financial pressures. 

Universities, including public ones, offer these fee-waived doctoral programs with the intention to draw in the best students.

These students, in turn, are expected to contribute significantly to the advancement of research in their respective fields and derive a high-quality education from their doctorates.

It is important to note that eligibility for these scholarships or stipends requires proof of commitment to the doctoral degree. In my experience, this meant securing a top-class master’s degree. This reassured the university of my dedication to pursuing a PhD and furthering my education.

In recent years, there has been a rise in such fully funded programs online , offering a wider reach for prospective PhDs.

As we move further into 2023, students may increasingly opt for these online PhD programmes, making the pursuit of doctoral degrees more accessible than ever.

Countries with a free PhD / fully funded PhD – How much does a PhD cost in other countries?

Sometimes doing a free PhD means going abroad and doing your PhD in another country.

Personally, I travelled to Australia to do my PhD for the adventure and lifestyle. I was able to get a fee-waived placement and international student fee waiver for three years to finish my degree.

Here’s a summary of some of the best countries you could do you PhD in if you want to do it for free.

Czech RepublicNo FeesAdditional costs for international students
SwedenNo FeesStudy grants for some PhD students
GermanyNo Fees€300 administration fee per semester
AustriaNo Fees for EU/EEA students who finish on timeFees for international students, capped by the government
NorwayNo FeesSmall semester fee
DenmarkNo Fees for EU, EEA, and Swiss studentsHigh fees for international students
FinlandNo FeesFees for Masters programs for international students
Saudi ArabiaNo FeesAll fees covered by scholarships, including living costs
NetherlandsNot universally freeMany institutions offer free PhD study to international students, some classify them as employees with potential salary/benefits
SwitzerlandLow Fees (CHF 1500/year)State-funded PhD places with no fees and a maintenance grant for EU, EEA, Swiss students

In the Czech Republic , public universities host a multitude of English-language PhD programs and these programs are free for all PhD students, irrespective of their nationality. However, additional costs may be incurred by international students which might include language courses, health insurance, or student services fees, depending on the university policies.

Sweden maintains a unique policy that not only eradicates PhD fees at public universities but also provides study grants to some PhD students, which serves as a financial aid for their living expenses during the tenure of their studies.

In Germany , public universities offer feeless PhD programs to all students, which can include free PhD programs online. However, a nominal administration fee, approximately €300 per semester, is required. This fee usually covers student services and perks like public transportation and access to university facilities.

Austria ‘s policy benefits PhD students from within the EU and EEA who complete their doctorates within a stipulated time frame, offering free education at public research universities. International students, on the other hand, have to pay fees, which, nonetheless, are capped by the Austrian government to maintain affordability.

Norway , like its Nordic counterparts, offers free PhD education at public universities to all students, regardless of their origin. But a small semester fee, usually covering student services, is obligatory.

Denmark also practices a policy of free PhD education for EU, EEA, and Swiss students at public universities, but international students are required to pay fees, which are generally on the higher side compared to other European countries.

Finland doesn’t discriminate in terms of nationality and offers free PhD studies at public universities. However, international students are charged for their Masters programs.

Saudi Arabia stands out with its unique policy where all PhD students are awarded scholarships that automatically cover their education fees, as well as help them with living expenses.

In the Netherlands , PhD study isn’t universally free, but many institutions extend the offer of free PhD study to international postgraduates. Some universities consider the PhD students as university employees, offering them a waiver on fees and potentially a salary or benefits.

Switzerland , although not offering free PhD studies, keeps its fees low at around CHF 1500 per year at public universities. State-funded PhD positions are also available to EU, EEA, and Swiss students that come with no fees and a maintenance grant.

Top tips for finding a PhD for free – online and on-campus

Here are the top tips I would give you when Choosing a free PhD.

  • Apply to STEM programs: Many PhD (and Master’s) programs, especially in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) fields, are fully funded in the US. Most state schools and Ivy League schools have fully funded programs for these fields.
  • Prepare for stiff competition: Because these programs are fully funded, the competition is high. It’s not uncommon for hundreds or even thousands of students to apply to these programs each year, with only a small fraction being accepted.
  • Consider assistantships: Fully-funded programs usually provide a stipend in the form of Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) or Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) positions. These roles involve either teaching or conducting research under a professor’s supervision.
  • Be ready for some costs: Despite tuition being covered, you may still need to cover some school fees, student insurance, and other miscellaneous expenditures.
  • Don’t consider unfunded programs: Many graduate programs do not fund students, but experts advise against attending these schools. The availability of funding indicates the health of the department in terms of research money and growth.
  • Work on your application: The application process generally starts around September to December for many accredited online doctorate degrees. Standardized tests such as GRE and TOEFL/IELTS are required, along with transcripts, recommendation letters, and a statement of purpose.
  • Avoid programs that require you to pay: It’s a common sentiment among experts that if you’re paying to be a PhD student, there might be something wrong with the program.
  • Apply for fellowships: There are graduate fellowships available for international students that cover tuition and offer a monthly stipend.

Wrapping up – Free doctoral degree program and online doctoral program – Get a PhD

This comprehensive article delves into everything you need to know about free PhD programs, also known as fully funded PhD programs, including the essential details, benefits, and potential challenges that students may encounter.

The term “free PhD” generally refers to a fully funded program that covers tuition fees and provides a stipend for living expenses, allowing students to complete their PhD studies without financial burden.

It is crucial to understand why you should never enter a PhD program without proper funding. Hence, pursuing a free or fully funded PhD should be a priority for all PhD students, regardless of nationality or field of study.

These programs may be offered both online and on-campus by various top universities around the world.

Fully funded PhD programs cater to both international and local students, including those pursuing a traditional PhD, online doctorate, or an accelerated executive doctorate of education.

For instance, fully funded online PhD programs in fields like business administration, education policy, and social work in clinical practice are available for students who hold master’s or bachelor’s degrees.

The duration of these programs may range from 1 year for fast-track or shortest doctoral programs to several years for other disciplines, including online phd studies. Moreover, many programs focus on specialization in subjects like higher education policy, laboratory research, and much more.

One of the perks of these programs is that many institutions provide a stipend to cover living expenses during the course of study, ensuring that students can focus entirely on their research without worrying about financial constraints.

free history phd

Dr Andrew Stapleton has a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from the UK and Australia. He has many years of research experience and has worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate at a number of Universities. Although having secured funding for his own research, he left academia to help others with his YouTube channel all about the inner workings of academia and how to make it work for you.

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UC Department of History Logo

  • Public History Practicum
  • Prospective Students

Theoretically sophisticated, comparative, and interdisciplinary approaches are a hallmark of the doctoral program at the University of Chicago. The Department of History offers a comprehensive range of fields of study. We strongly encourage students to take courses outside of History and to compose one of three oral fields in a comparative discipline. A rich series of  interdisciplinary workshops  and conferences bring together students and faculty from throughout the university for intellectual exchange.

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School of History, Classics & Archaeology

PhD by Distance

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

Student sat at her desk looking at a laptop and making notes in a notebook.

What's involved?

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

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

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

Entry requirements

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

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

free history phd

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

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

Working whilst studying

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

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Where Historians Work

An Interactive Database of History PhD Career Outcomes

Where Historians Work: An Interactive Database of History PhD Career Outcomes

Where Historians Work is an interactive, online database that catalogs the career outcomes of historians who earned PhDs at universities in the United States from 2004 to 2017. Powered by Tableau, Where Historians Work provides the fullest picture of PhD careers available for any discipline. This tool allows current and potential graduate students to understand the full scope of career options open to history PhDs and to research which departments best fit their values and goals, enables departments to better meet the professional development needs of their doctoral students, and documents the broad impact of doctoral education in history.

Where Historians Work was first released in 2018. At that time, the data set included career outcomes for the 8,523 historians who earned PhDs at PhD-granting universities in the United States from 2004 to 2013. In 2022, the AHA released four years of additional data, adding career outcomes for the 3,787 historians who earned PhDs at US universities from 2014 to 2017.

Further reading on the databases:

  • Emily Swafford and Dylan Ruediger, “Every Historian Counts: A New AHA Database Analyzes Careers for PhDs,” Perspectives on History (July 2018)
  • Hope J. Shannon and Emily Swafford, “Four More Years: A Where Historians Work Update,” Perspectives on History (October 2022)

Where Historians Work is a product of the AHA’s Career Diversity for Historians initiative, funded by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation.

Where Historians Work, 2004–13

This dashboard includes the occupational data collected for the 8,523 historians who earned PhDs at US universities from 2004 and 2013.

Where Historians Work, 2014–17

This dashboard includes the occupational data collected for the 3,787 history PhDs who graduated between 2014 and 2017.

Methodology

Where Historians Work tracks the employment status of history and history of science PhDs who graduated from all history PhD-granting departments in the United States from 2004 to 2017.

Exploring the Visualizations

The Where Historians Work database consists of two separate dashboards: one containing the 2004 to 2013 dataset and the other containing the 2014 to 2017 dataset. Each dashboard features seven interactive data visualizations. Toolbars near the top of the dashboards allow users to view career outcomes in the aggregate and filter the results by variables such as gender, graduation year, department, and field specialization. Many slides contain additional information that can be accessed by hovering your cursor over individual data points. The Where Historians Work dashboards are best viewed in a desktop browser in full screen.

We hope users will explore the data, make discoveries, and share them with us. You can read a summary of initial findings from when the original 2004 to 2013 data set was published in 2017 here . A summary of findings from the 2014 to 2017 data set can be found here. Please send any comments or questions about Where Historians Work to Hope Shannon, the AHA’s marketing and engagement manager.

Acknowledgments

Project director.

Emily Swafford

Project Coordinators

Dylan Ruediger Hope Shannon

Project Contributors

Avrati Bhatnagar Megan Connor Claire Vanderwood

Join the AHA

The AHA brings together historians from all specializations and all work contexts, embracing the breadth and variety of activity in history today.

Department of History

Ph.d. program outline.

The Ph.D. program in History is designed to train students in the skills of conducting original historical research and crafting unique historical arguments.

In the course of their work as historians, Brown scholars draw on a wide range of methods and engage with a variety of audiences. Thus although we begin with the core skills of academic research and writing and teaching at the college and university levels, we do not end there. Many Brown doctoral students explore teaching in and writing for different settings, and prepare for a breadth of careers that value the skills that a obtaining a Ph.D. in history entails.

The Brown Ph.D. program is intimate and rigorous, and students are expected to complete in five to seven years. One of the program's hallmarks is a series of required courses in which an entire cohort is trained in core professional skills. This series is composed of: (1) a methodology colloquium that introduces the students to a wide range of theory and historical practice; (2) an advanced writing workshop in which students write an article-quality paper; (3) a professionalization seminar in which students are trained in the habits of mind and skills of the profession; and (4) a dissertation prospectus seminar. Critically, students in an entering cohort proceed through these courses together, so that discussions across fields, geographies, and chronologies are built into the doctoral program.

The program is divided into two stages

  • During the  first and second years  students take seminars that introduce the major historiographical questions and methodologies of various fields and that develop their research skills; they write an article-length paper based on original archival research; they take a professionalization course that introduces them to the principal tasks and cultures of the profession (grant writing, for instance, and conference presentations); and they form an exam committee and begin preparation for the preliminary examinations.
  • After passing the examinations by the end of their fifth semester, students develop a prospectus for and research and write their dissertation. The dissertation is typically completed in the  fifth or sixth year  (though some students take longer).  

The department offers four types of Ph.D. seminars:

  • Field Seminars  (2970s) offer students a broad overview of a field, typically an exam field.
  • Required Seminars  are the four seminars required of all Ph.D. students: Colloquium, Writing Workshop, Professionalization, and Prospectus.
  • Special Topics Seminars  focus on the historiography of a particular nation or region, for example, a particular historical “event,” or historiographical debate. They allow for focused, close training, including specialized skills (e.g. paleography), readings in languages other than English, or extensive examination of the scholarship on a particular problem.
  • Thematic Seminars  (2980s) offer students the opportunity to explore a particular theoretical/methodological frame in a transnational and transtemporal perspective.

The First and Second Years

In their first year, students take 3 seminars in the fall (2 plus the colloquium) and 3 seminars in the spring. Ideally, the courses should be a mix of Field and Thematic seminars, with the inclusion of a Special Topics seminar where appropriate. The colloquium is required of all first-year Ph.D. students and constitutes the basic introductory methodology and theory course for the degree.

Any student who wishes to do so may, after consultation with her or his advisor, substitute an independent reading course offered by a member of the department or a graduate-level course outside of the department.

Research Paper

During the spring semester of the first year, each student begins work on their research paper. Production of the paper is a year-long process that begins in a spring-semester Thematic seminar and concludes in the subsequent fall in the Graduate Workshop. Students designate one of their Thematic seminars as the foundation for the paper and compose a research prospectus as the final project in the course (the prospectus should include a literature review and a discussion of archival sources). Students engage in archival research during the summer and enroll in the Graduate Workshop in the fall, in which they write the final paper.

By the end of the first year, students are expected to have assembled a three-member exam committee.

Second Year

In their second year, students will serve as teaching assistants and will continue to take a mix of Field, Special Topics, and Thematic seminars. In addition, each semester they take one required course: in the fall, the Graduate Workshop, in which they write their research paper, and in the spring Professionalization, which focuses on the principal professionals tasks and expectations they will encounter in a career as a professional historian.

The First Two Summers

Students are required to make progress toward the completion of their degree during the summer months. The department recognizes that for some students progress will take the form of language training, while for others archival work or other research-related projects might be appropriate, along with reading for preliminary exams. During their first summer, all students are expected to complete significant archival research for their research paper.

During the third year, students must pass their preliminary examinations by the end of the fifth (fall) semester. Exams are typically scheduled for early December.

Preliminary Exams

By the end of the first year of study the student submit a departmental form that lists three fields in which she/he will be examined. The student will indicate the field in which her/his dissertation will be written. This will be the major field. The others will be minor fields. No more than two fields may be in the history of the same national culture. Normally, all three examiners will be members of the Department of History, and the fields will be chosen based on consultation with the examiners and the Director of Graduate Studies. A student may petition the department to prepare one field in another department or program.

Based on the foregoing, the first three years of the Ph.D. program for a typical student would look schematically like this

Fall Semester Spring Semester Summer
Research, Language study
Fall Semester Spring Semester Summer
Exam Prep, Language
Fall Semester Spring Semester Summer
Research

Fourth Year

The fourth year is typically a fellowship year, during which students conduct dissertation research wherever their work takes them.

The fifth year is typically funded as a teaching assistantship, during which time students continue research and writing of the dissertation.

Students in the fourth year and beyond register for HIST 2990, Thesis Preparation.

Additional Ph.D. Information

Doctoral dissertation, fields of study, funding and financial aid.

Georgetown University.

College of Arts & Sciences

Georgetown University.

PhD Course of Study

    coursework.

Coursework in our program is intended to provide students with a solid knowledge of historiography in their specialty, substantial experience in archival research, and the opportunity to explore new fields, themes, and methods of inquiry.

Generally, doctoral students take three courses each semester for their first two years in the program. All students must take the Core Colloquium in their first semester and complete a two-semester research seminar.  In addition to choosing from the list of offered courses, students may arrange for individual tutorials with faculty, or seek out a Consortium course from a participating university in the area.  Students who matriculate with an MA degree may petition for advanced standing, which reduces the courseload requirements.  Students are guided in their choice of courses by their Mentor and Advisory Committee.

Entering students are expected to have reading competency in at least one relevant language and are tested before they start their first semester of classes. Students cannot register for the third semester of classes until they pass at least one language exam. All students, except those whose major field is United States History, must pass a minimum of two language exams before scheduling comprehensive exams.

Courses Available in the History Department

    Comprehensive Exams

Our Comprehensive Exams are intended to prepare students to teach in their specialties and launch them towards their dissertation research. Doctoral students usually take their exams some time in their third year.

Ph.D. students at Georgetown prepare three fields: a Major field, a Research field within the Major, and a separate Minor field. While the Major field must be one of our formal fields of study, students have a great deal of leeway and creative license to determine their other two fields. This flexibility is a hallmark of our program of study.

Students prepare a written exam in the Major Field and Research field and a written portfolio in the Minor field. Passing the written work qualifies a student to move on to a two-hour oral exam. Passing the oral exam qualifies the student as a Doctoral Candidate.

    Dissertation

Writing a great dissertation is the goal of every student’s doctoral training. After passing their comprehensive exams, students form a dissertation committee, write a dissertation proposal, and move forward on their research. Ideally, students spend their fourth year doing archival research and their fifth year writing their dissertations. The doctoral students have a standing writing workshop for dissertators to share and critique each other’s work in progress. Our students have won prestigious external fellowships to fund their research and writing, including the ACLS and ACLS/Mellon, Newcombe, Ford Foundation, Fulbright and Fulbright-Hays, among many others. Click here for a list of completed dissertations  and  dissertations in progress.

    Teaching

Our doctoral students have plentiful opportunities to teach. Students on renewable fellowships usually serve as Teaching Assistants in their second, third, and fifth years. Every year, a handful of Davis Fellowships are awarded to advanced doctoral students to teach their own upper-level undergraduate seminars. Students who are nearly done with their dissertations or have recently completed their dissertations sometimes teach their own undergraduate survey-level classes. Ph.D. students in the History Department work closely with Georgetown’s Center for New Designs in Learning and Scholarship to improve as teachers. Our Ph.D.s enter the academic job market with extensive training and experience as teachers.

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  • Lectures/Literary , 
  • Community Events , 

NKY History Hour: Fast Food: A Lot Older Than You Think

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If you thought fast food only dates back to McDonald’s and Kentucky Fried Chicken, think again! The roots of fast food began in the late 1800s, as American industrial and office workers sought quick, convenient meals during their lunch breaks.   Join Behringer-Crawford Museum’s next virtual NKY History Hour on Tuesday, August 20, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., as historian Paul Tenkotte takes you on a journey through the origins and evolution of fast food in his presentation, Fast Food: A Lot Older Than You Think.   While many associate fast food with the rise of modern giants, its story stretches much further back in time. Tenkotte will explore how the fast food phenomenon was born out of necessity and has since grown into a billion-dollar industry. From the introduction of square little hamburgers to the global empire it is today, this engaging presentation will offer a fresh perspective on the culinary revolution that has shaped American culture and cuisine.

To register and participate in the free presentation by Behringer-Crawford Museum, visit: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_a2jgosPgQZ-MyVjjVYZiFA   Information on connecting to the Zoom session will be sent after registration. The event will also be streamed live on BCM's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/bcmuseumnky. All recordings of past episodes can be viewed at https://www.bcmuseum.org/activities/nky-history-hour/2-uncategorised/368-past-nky-history-hours.

Paul A. Tenkotte, PhD is a Professor of History at Northern Kentucky University. He has published 16 books, contributed chapters and essays to 13 additional books, and written/edited more than 600 articles and book reviews for a wide range of publications. In addition, he has participated in 22 television documentaries, including his 2018 national PBS debut, Ten That Changed America: Engineering Marvels. Dr. Tenkotte’s textbook, The United States since 1865: Information Literacy and Critical Thinking, was published in 2022 by Kendall Hunt. He is also editor of the weekly “Our Rich History” column in the NKyTribune, an online publication of the non-profit Kentucky Center for Public Service Journalism. Currently, Tenkotte is co-directing a non-profit regional initiative of the Kenton County Public Library (KY) entitled ORVILLE (Ohio River Valley Innovation Library and Learning Enrichment.)

NKY History Hour programs take place every other Tuesday evening from 6:30-7:30 p.m. and are free to the public. To support NKY History Hour and access many other entertaining and thought-provoking programs for free, join BCM today: http://bcmuseum.org/support-us/join/become-a-member. 

Behringer-Crawford Museum is supported in part by our members, the City of Covington, Kenton County Fiscal Court, ArtsWave, Kentucky Arts Council, the Northern Kentucky Sports Hall of Fame and The Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile, Jr. Foundation. 

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Aug 22, 2024, 11:41 AM

Vanderbilt University Graduate School faculty and staff welcomed more than 590 students to campus during the Graduate School Convocation on Aug. 19. The convocation included address from university leadership, including Chancellor Daniel Diermeier,  Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Cybele Raver and Vice Provost for Graduate Education and Dean of the Graduate School André Christie-Mizell, Senior Associate Dean for Research and Ecucation in the College of Arts & Science John McLean and Divinity School Dean Yolanda Pierce. Following the ceremony, a social and information fair was held in Alumni Hall, the home of the Graduate School.

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2024 Graduate School Convocation Harrison McClary/Vanderbilt University

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University of New Haven Welcoming One of the Largest Classes in its History

The Class of 2028, the second largest in the University’s history – and one of the most selective – includes 1,400 students hailing from across the country and around the globe.

August 20, 2024

Students from the Class of 2028.

In advance of the start of the 2024-2025 academic year, the University of New Haven is hosting move-in day for its incoming Class of 2028, which includes nearly 1,400 first-year students, marking the second largest class in the University’s more than 100-year history, and it’s largest since 2017.

On move-in day, incoming students and their families will be welcomed by Jens Frederiksen, Ph.D. , who is participating in his first move-in day since being named the University's seventh president earlier this year.

The Class of 2028 hails from 41 states and 16 countries. Approximately 75 percent of the incoming class will live in University housing. More than 40 percent of the incoming class are first-generation students, and nearly 50 percent are students of color. The average SAT score of the incoming class is 1112, and the average GPA is 3.46.

On the heels of the launch of its new “Power On” branding campaign, the University received more than 24,000 applications for admission to its Class of 2028, leading to one of the most selective classes in University history.

Despite widespread challenges students nationwide experienced with the new Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the University received nearly 9,000 FAFSA applications, an all-time high.

‘The success of our students is deeply personal to us’

Incoming first-year students started to get to know each other earlier this summer when they took part in the University’s Student Orientation, Advising, and Registration (SOAR) program . In groups led by Orientation and Transition Leaders, current students who will serve as a resource for new Chargers throughout the fall semester, the Class of 2028 started to get to know their classmates.

“Our OTL talked with us a lot about respecting others, about creating a community, and always sticking with each other,” said Schuyler Coles ’28, a business management major . “That’s the feeling I got being here. A real community.”

Parents and families also took part in SOAR and learned more about the University’s commitment to maximizing student outcomes and their return on investment.

Kimberly Giancoli, whose daughter Joey Somers ’28 will be a music and sound recording major , said, “It’s a great university that puts students first,” Giancoli said. “I’m very excited for my daughter.”

After moving in, first-year students will take part in a series of events during Charge In that will lead up to the first day of classes on August 26. The first day of classes through Labor Day weekend will be Welcome Week with a variety of programs to help the newest Chargers build relationships with their classmates, learn more about the resources in place to help them succeed, and start their Charger journey on the right foot.

“We are grateful our parents and families have entrusted us with their students,” said President Jens Frederiksen, Ph.D. “This is a responsibility we take very seriously. Our faculty and staff are exceptional, and the success of our students is deeply personal to us.”

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Dr. Shivanjali Khare conducted a workshop at the New Haven Free Public Library to educate senior citizens on smart-device security and to help protect them from cyber threats.

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The Marks Family Business: Teaching, Capturing the Imaginations of Students from Nursery School to Graduate School

Aaron S. Marks, DHSc, one of the newest graduates of the University’s Doctor of Health Sciences Program, loves being part of a family of educators. His father Brian A. Marks J.D., Ph.D., is a senior lecturer in the University’s Pompea College of Business, his mother was a longtime nursery-school teacher, his sister has a Ph.D. in psychology and works in a teaching hospital, and Aaron’s wife Nicole is teacher as well.

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Lover of Men: The Untold History of Abraham Lincoln

Lover of Men: The Untold History of Abraham Lincoln (2024)

Examines the intimate life of America's most consequential president, Abraham Lincoln. Examines the intimate life of America's most consequential president, Abraham Lincoln. Examines the intimate life of America's most consequential president, Abraham Lincoln.

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Graduate Alumni Spotlight | Archer O’Brien, M.A.‘20

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"Hood’s long history of academic preparation at all levels—and the combination of rigorous and intensive research, personal and professional development with the liberal arts core, and ethos—drew me to Hood College."

Archer O’Brien, M.A.‘20

  • Humanities (M.A.)
  • English & Communication Arts
  • Graduate School
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Archer O’Brien, M.A.’20, is a graduate of Hood College’s humanities master’s program and is a published author. Before Hood, O’Brien graduated from Mount Saint Mary’s University in 2016 with a double major in history and international relations and a minor in French. We spoke with him about his experiences in the humanities program and how the content knowledge he gained in the program has helped his professional development.

Can you tell us about your academic and career background?

I was educated at state schools from the age of 4-17. I did my undergraduate work at Mount Saint Mary ’ s with a double major in history and international relations and a minor in French. I did my graduate work right here at Hood College. My program was the master ’ s in humanities with a concentration in history.

My career background is more unorthodox than most. I ’ m currently self-employed in the resale industry. I resell luxury goods through most major platforms, and I receive royalties from my book.

As an alum, what drew you to Hood College?

Hood’s long history of academic preparation at all academic levels—and the combination of rigorous and intensive research, personal and professional development with the liberal arts core, and ethos—drew me to Hood College. 

I was looking for options to finish graduate school when I was homeless and living out of a hotel room, and the humanities program director, Corey Campion , happened to answer the phone.

How has your experience at Hood College guided your career endeavors?

My experience at Hood prepared me for almost anything. My career path is not as linear as your average graduate. I’ve been able to strike out as an independent business owner and author because I was exposed to everything at Hood—philosophy, modern languages, the arts, social sciences and economics. This gave me a firm foundation from which anything was possible.

What are some takeaway experiences you still treasure from Hood College? 

Hundreds of hours at the student union, sorting through materials at the library and intensive meetings with faculty guided me to the ultimate goal of finishing my degree--and more sandwiches than I can count.

You just wrote a book. What are some challenges and successes you faced on the journey of writing? 

The process of writing a book is nowhere near as straightforward as it would appear. The challenges with this project included illness, surgery, working remotely with my entire editorial team, deciding how many personal anecdotes to include and straddling the line between a manifesto and a book.

I suppose my biggest success was finishing the book, but for this project, success can be described as believing that something better is possible, putting that “something better” on paper and then placing it into the rollicking marketplace of ideas to be accepted or rejected by my fellow citizens.

What do you hope people take away from reading your book?

I hope that people realize that our social welfare system is unstable and that whether or not anything comes from the central premise of my book, doing nothing is not an option. It’s time to bring our social programs in line with 21st century realities. Chief among these is that our shared communal life is not a competition, but that we all need some kind of mutual assistance to thrive and be the best version of ourselves.

What are some things you enjoy doing in your free time? 

I love to cook! I also paint, am a photographer of plant life and dabble in video games.

Inspired by Archer’s accomplishments in the humanities program? Ready to  #GOFURTHER in your career? Learn more about Hood College’s graduate programs, such as  humanities , by clicking  here .

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Choose a pathway.

Information will vary based on program level. Select a path to find the information you're looking for!

IMAGES

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  1. Fully Funded PhD Programs in History

    New York University, Department of History (New York City, NY): History doctoral students receive full funding support for five years through the Henry M. MacCracken Fellowship Program which covers tuition, all fees, health insurance, and a 9-month stipend. The MacCracken amount is $31,070. In addition, students receive summer funding.

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  5. Ph.D. Programs

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    PhD History. The Department of History offers a PhD program centered on rigorous research within a vibrant and diverse intellectual community. While most of our students have a history degree (BA) or degrees (BA and MA), we accept students with a variety of backgrounds and interests. Admission is highly competitive. All offers include a full ...

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    AU's PhD in History will prepare you for a career as an educator, researcher, analyst, and writer working in academia, public and institutional history, and other fields requiring investigative and analytical skills. In this program, you will develop a deeper understanding of how historians investigate and interpret the past while you explore ...

  8. PhD Program

    PhD Program. Welcome to Georgetown's Ph.D. program in History! We are a top-notch program with strengths in multiple fields, and we encourage students with interests that span geographical regions, time periods, and thematic foci. Our doctoral student community numbers roughly 100, with new cohorts of 10-12 fully-funded students each year.

  9. Ph.D. Program

    The History Department offers 5 years of financial support to PhD students. No funding is offered for the co-terminal and terminal M.A. programs. A sample Ph.D. funding package is as follows: 1st year: 3 quarters fellowship stipend and 1 summer stipend. 2nd year: 2 quarters TAships, 1 quarter fellowship stipend, and 1 summer stipend.

  10. Graduate Program

    Graduate Program. The goal of the doctoral program is to train students to become both skilled scholars and conscientious teachers. Throughout the program students work with advisors and other faculty members as they engage in coursework, prepare for and take the general exam, work as teaching fellows, and research and write the dissertation.

  11. History, PhD < University of Pennsylvania

    2024-25 Catalog. History, PhD. The Graduate Program in History at the University of Pennsylvania has a long tradition of distinction. Beginning as one of the first programs in the United States to offer doctoral study in history, (the first Ph.D. in History was conferred in 1891); the Department continues to pioneer new areas of scholarship.

  12. PhD in History (by distance learning)

    Start dates ( semester dates) PhD by distance learning. 3-4 years full-time. 4-6 years part-time. Apply for PhD by distance learning. January. September. If your passion lies in research, our doctoral degrees give you the independence to focus on a specialism of your choice. You'll have the flexibility to work from anywhere in the world.

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    The University of Chicago provides funding for up to eight years of study for its anthropology PhD students. This includes a full-tuition scholarship, health insurance, and a living stipend of $33,000 for the 2022-2023 academic year. Students are also eligible to apply for external fellowships. Indiana.

  14. 33 Online PhD programmes in History

    History (On-Campus or By Distance Learning) Ph.D. / Full-time / Online, On Campus. 25,592 EUR / year. 3 years. University of Birmingham Birmingham, England, United Kingdom. Ranked top 0.5%. Top 0.5% of Universities worldwide according to the Studyportals Meta Ranking.

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    PhD Study Theoretically sophisticated, comparative, and interdisciplinary approaches are a hallmark of the doctoral program at the University of Chicago. The Department of History offers a comprehensive range of fields of study.

  16. Online PhD in History: A Quick Guide

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

  17. PDF Department of History DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN HISTORY PROGRAM

    University 1971 University Blvd. Lynchburg, VA 24515Version 2 (August 2023)PrefaceThis document describes the policies and procedures used to regulate the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in History ...

  18. PhD by Distance

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

  19. Ph.D. Program Overview

    The Ph.D. program in History trains students in the skills of conducting original historical research and crafting original historical arguments. In the course of their work as historians, Brown scholars draw on a wide range of methods and engage with a variety of audiences. While training emphasizes the core skills of academic research ...

  20. Where Historians Work

    Where Historians Work was first released in 2018. At that time, the data set included career outcomes for the 8,523 historians who earned PhDs at PhD-granting universities in the United States from 2004 to 2013. In 2022, the AHA released four years of additional data, adding career outcomes for the 3,787 historians who earned PhDs at US ...

  21. Ph.D. Program Outline

    The Ph.D. program in History is designed to train students in the skills of conducting original historical research and crafting unique historical arguments. In the course of their work as historians, Brown scholars draw on a wide range of methods and engage with a variety of audiences. Thus although we begin with the core skills of academic ...

  22. Fully-Funded PhD Programs in History

    Archivists. $53,950. 9%. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. There are several PhD programs in history that offer full funding to students for five years through a fellowship that may require teaching or research duties. PhD students are able to specialize in one historical area, such as American history or African history, and may pursue ...

  23. PhD Course of Study

    Coursework in our program is intended to provide students with a solid knowledge of historiography in their specialty, substantial experience in archival research, and the opportunity to explore new fields, themes, and methods of inquiry. Generally, doctoral students take three courses each semester for their first two years in the program.

  24. PDF History PhD Map

    Our Graduate History Students' Association fosters a vibrant community through a variety of social events and professional development workshops. Program STRUCTURE PhD (4 years): 5 seminar courses, including historical theories and methods, two field requirements, one language requirement,

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  26. NKY History Hour: Fast Food: A Lot Older Than You Think

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  27. PHOTOS: Vanderbilt welcomes newest Graduate School students at Graduate

    See highlights from the 2024 Graduate School Convocation, where Vanderbilt University Graduate School faculty and staff welcomed more than 590 students to campus.

  28. University of New Haven Welcoming One of the Largest Classes in its History

    Students from the Class of 2028. In advance of the start of the 2024-2025 academic year, the University of New Haven is hosting move-in day for its incoming Class of 2028, which includes nearly 1,400 first-year students, marking the second largest class in the University's more than 100-year history, and it's largest since 2017.. On move-in day, incoming students and their families will be ...

  29. Lover of Men: The Untold History of Abraham Lincoln (2024)

    Lover of Men: The Untold History of Abraham Lincoln: Directed by Shaun Peterson. With Thomas Balcerski, Michael Bronski, Jack Halberstam, John Stauffer. Examines the intimate life of America's most consequential president, Abraham Lincoln.

  30. Graduate Alumni Spotlight

    Archer O'Brien, M.A.'20, is a graduate of Hood College's humanities master's program and is a published author. Before Hood, O'Brien graduated from Mount Saint Mary's University in 2016 with a double major in history and international relations and a minor in French. We spoke with him about his experiences in the humanities program and how the content knowledge he gained in the ...