Marcella White
Norwich Graduate, Class of 2015

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Master of Arts in History

History matters. Leverage the past to build your future.

For nearly two centuries, Norwich University has played a vital role in history as America's first private military college and the birthplace of ROTC. In fact, we have more than 18,000 alumni, many of whom have made significant contributions to our country’s development including Edwin Ferry Johnson, chief engineer of the Northern Pacific Railroad; Harry Bate Thayer, president and chairman of AT&T in the 1920s and General Gordon R. Sullivan, chief of staff of the U.S Army in the 1990s.

Our Master of Arts in History program is uniquely positioned to lead students through a comprehensive analysis of the major developments, events, and figures of the past.

Download a free brochure for more information about this program.

 

Degree
  • Master of Arts
Concentrations
  • Public History
  • American History
  • World History
  • Legal and Constitutional History

Quick Info

1
Week Residency

Visit campus for culminating experience

15
Students

Maximum number of students per class

18
Months

Average time to program completion

8
June

Next Start Date

11
May

Application Deadline

Why Norwich?

Learn from a faculty of active scholars with doctorate degrees.

Customize your studies based on your career goals and personal interests.

Develop essential skills relevant to not only careers in history but also in business, law, education, and government.

Improve your historical insight, research, writing, analysis and presentation skills.

Apply to one of four start dates per year.

Benefit from a university recognized as offering Best Value with respect to high academic quality and low net cost of attendance, according to the U.S. News & World Report.*

*Rankings are based on undergraduate programs and on students who recieved the average level of need-based finanical aid.

Accreditation & Recognition

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Norwich University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (formerly the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc.).

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Recognized for academic excellence, U.S. News & World Report ranks Norwich University in the top 100 for Regional Universities in the North. Rankings are based on undergraduate programs.

 

Scholarship Opportunities

Norwich University offers a range of opportunities to help you lower your overall tuition costs. Contact our admissions team today to learn more about the below options. Please note that scholarships are not additive. In addition to the below scholarships, students may also be eligible for discounts if their organization partners with Norwich University.

Achievement Scholarship

Recognizing your past academic and professional achievements, the Achievement Scholarship is for newly enrolled students. You could receive a $4,200 scholarship, which will be distributed equally over the courses of the program. To be considered for this scholarship opportunity, submit your application package (application form, resume, letter of intent, and essay (if applicable)) for your program of interest at least one week prior to the upcoming application deadline. The Scholarship Selection Committee will review all application materials and select the recipient. 

Norwich Alumni Scholarship

Norwich University alumni and their spouses, parents, and children are eligible to receive our Alumni Scholarship. The scholarship is award for each term of enrollment at $425 per term.

Active Duty Military Scholarship

Active duty, National Guard, and Reserve personnel are eligible to receive a $250 award for each term of enrollment in an online master’s degree program.

 

Help us learn more about your experience and see if you qualify for the Master of Arts in History program.

Pre-Qualify

Curriculum

Core Curriculum

Norwich’s history program curriculum is composed of six courses, each of which is delivered through our online classroom over 11 weeks for a total of 36 credit hours.

Our graduates can:

  • Demonstrate a familiarity with more than one historiographic tradition and the ability to synthesize different types of historical knowledge.
  • Apply a depth and breadth of subject matter expertise to current roles to become more knowledgeable teachers and public historians.
  • Conduct historical research through several resources such as course papers and theses.

Public History Track

Public History is designed to enable you to make history accessible through the preservation and interpretation of visual artifacts, written documents, material culture, and other sources.

For the 4th course, please refer to the elective course list in the next section.

Please note that the Research and Planning Seminar and Capstone Project courses will be taken as the 5th and 6th courses.

HI553 and HI563 will entail working as an INTERN for a total of 400 hours working on site. This 400 hours can be spread over 9 months – (3 months for HI553, 3 months for HI563, and if needed 3 months for an extension on HI563).

Elective Courses for the Public History Track

Students can take any one of these electives for the fourth seminar in the Public History concentration. The elective should be chosen in consultation with the Program Director or Associate Program Director. The elective should give students historical content knowledge for the period, region, or type of public history employment they will pursue.

American History Track

American History is designed to help you establish yourself as a complete historian through the systematic exploration of history in the United States. For the courses below, in addition to common readings and threaded discussion posts each week, each student writes several papers of varying lengths. This concentration will progress as outlined; course descriptions are down below.

First Course:

Introduction to History and Historiography (MH510)

Second and Third Course (choose two):

American Colonial, Revolutionary and Early National History (HI520)

19th Century America (HI530)

20th Century America (HI540)

Fourth Course:

Choose an elective from the below list.

Fifth Course:

Directed Readings in History (HI550)

Sixth Course:

Capstone Paper (MH562; or M.A Thesis via MH570 and MH571)

Elective Courses for the American History Track

For seminar four, students choose one of the following courses.

World History Track

World History is designed to give you the capability to examine world history to build a strong historical knowledge base. This concentration will progress as outlined; course descriptions are down below.

First Course:

Introduction to History and Historiography (MH510)

Second and Third Course (choose two):

Hunter-Gatherer and Agrarian Eras to 1500 (HI526)

The Late Agrarian Era to 1800 (HI536)

World History from 1800 to 1991 (HI546)

Fourth Course:

Choose an elective from the below list.

Fifth Course:

Directed Readings in History (HI550)

Sixth Course:

Capstone Paper (MH562; or M.A Thesis via MH570 and MH571)

Elective Courses for the World History Track

For seminar four, students choose one of the following courses.

Optional Master's Thesis (Applies to American and World History Tracks Only)

The optional master’s thesis is an original research project demonstrating your ability to conduct primary-source research and demonstrate mastery of the historiography germane to the research question. This option is recommended for those interested in continuing their studies in history at the doctoral level. The thesis must reflect graduate-level analysis, synthesis, and argument and make a compelling case for the argument's historical and historiographic significance. Students interested in this degree completion option must petition the Capstone/Thesis Director during the second semester. The petition must be accompanied by a thesis proposal and letters of recommendation from two faculty members of the Master of Arts in History or the Master of Arts in Military History program.

The thesis option is, at minimum are two 11-week three-credit seminars. Accompanying sustaining and thesis fees will be applied.

Prerequisites: Approval of thesis petition and successful completion of the five previous core courses.

Legal and Constitutional History Track

The Legal and Constitutional History track is designed for primary and secondary school teachers in American history, world history, social studies, and/or government with a focus on providing a broader and deeper understanding of the historiographical foundations of European and American legal and constitutional structures, such as the rule of law, civil rights, and the balance of powers among the branches of government.  

For the 4th course of this track, please refer to the elective course list below.

For the Capstone project, students have a choice to complete either MH562 or HI568

Elective Courses for the Legal and Constitutional History Track

Students can take any one of these electives for their fourth course in this concentration. The elective courses help give students greater knowledge of trends in historical scholarship relative to their professional interests.

Capstone Course for Legal and Constitutional History Track

Students choose from one of the two available capstone courses to round out the Legal and Constitutional History concentration of the M.A. in History degree program.

Residency

The final academic requirement for the history program is a residency at the beautiful and historic Norwich University campus in Vermont. Students have the opportunity to meet with fellow students, faculty, and program staff in both formal classroom and informal settings. Academic recognition ceremonies and commencement cap off the week, and family and friends are encouraged to attend.

Norwich covers the cost of all meals and accommodation on campus.

Admissions

At a Glance

  • No GRE/GMAT required
  • Undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or higher

Admissions Requirements »

Eligibility Requirements

  • A bachelor's degree from a regionally or nationally accredited U.S. institution, or an equivalent degree from a foreign institution, as evaluated by WES, IERF, SpanTran, or CED.
  • If English is not your first language, proof of English language proficiency is required. This can be demonstrated in one of three ways:
    • TOEFL - a minimum score of 550 (paper-based test) or 80 (Internet-based test) is required.*
    • IELTS – a minimum composite score of 6.5 is required.*
    • The applicant holds a baccalaureate or master’s degree from a college/university/institution in which the primary language of instruction was English.

Please Note:  All eligibility requirements are expected to be met unless noted in specific articulation agreements or memoranda of understand (MOUs).

Application Process

We encourage you to contact an admissions advisor (see below) if you need help at any stage of the application process. You will be required to submit the following items:

  • Application form
  • Resume that includes 3 professional references with contact information
  • Official transcript of your undergraduate degree from a regionally or nationally accredited university
  • Letter of intent
  • Admissions essay demonstrating graduate-level writing and critical thinking skills, or the GRE with the following scores:
    • For GRE tests taken within the past six years:
      • 85th percentile or higher on the verbal test and a 5 or higher on the analytical writing test

    • In place of the admissions essay, the Program Director will also consider a thesis, or a publication, or other evidence of scholarly work that includes footnotes or citations, and an argument that's several pages long on a case-by-case basis.

  • Proof of English language proficiency if applicable (TOEFL)

To contact an admissions advisor:

Call: 1-877-348-8153
Email: info@online.norwich.edu

Contact Admissions

Mon - Fri: 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. EST
 

Call: 1-877-348-8153
Email: info@online.norwich.edu

  • student writing in notebook
    Transfer Credits
    You may receive the equivalent of up to 12 semester credits for study conducted elsewhere. Norwich complies with VA regulations and guidelines as it pertains to transfer credits.
    Transfer More Credits »
  • norwich graduate with diploma
    Academic Scholarships
    The Master of Arts in History program now offers an academic achievement scholarship for newly enrolled students! Complete your application to qualify for one of the scholarships.
    Academic Scholarships »
  • benjamin bragdon on norwich campus, graduate
    Norwich Alumni Benefits
    Reconnect with Norwich University to complete your master's degree online. As apart of our alumni community, you are eligible for a $2,500 scholarship as well as other benefits.
    Connect with our advisors »

Non-Discrimination Statement

Norwich University, in compliance with Title IV of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendment of 1972, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, or physical handicap in any of its policies, practices, or procedures.

Tuition & Fees

About

When applying for the Master of Arts in History program at Norwich University, there are two essential factors to consider: what does it cost, and how can you pay for it? There are many ways to get financial assistance and several financial strategies that can help you achieve your academic and professional goals. We are here to help you identify and pursue the options that are best for you.

Tuition at a Glance

  • Credit Hours: 36
  • Cost Per Credit Hour: $719

Financial Aid Resources

Ways to Pay
Do You Qualify for a Tuition Discount?
We Accept Military Benefits

 

2021-22 Tuition and Fee Schedule - Master's Programs

Rate Per Credit
Term
Tuition		 Additional Expenses Total
$719
$4,314

Technology - $300/term
Library - $75/term
Graduation - $150/one-time
$28,284

Careers & Outcomes

Career Opportunities for Master of Arts in History Graduates

Whether your goals are to sharpen writing and research skills, develop a nuanced perspective on the past or garner subject matter experience, numerous Norwich alumni have proven that the pursuit of an online master’s degree in history is a fruitful endeavor.

Our Master of Arts in History degree can help you reach a variety of roles related to the field of history. You can also apply your degree to other public history venues. If you are in the military, our online master’s degree in history program may help you advance within the military or transition to a new career.

Our graduates have pursued a variety of roles, including:

Career Roles
  • Archivist
  • Archeologist
  • Content Producer
  • Curator
  • Digital Historian
  • Editor
  • Educator
  • Executive Director
  • Grant Writer
  • Intelligence Analyst
  • Legislative Staff
  • Museum Director
  • Records Manager
  • Researcher

Our students bring experience from nearly every sector of public service, including*:

  • Federal Government (Military) - 10%
  • State/Local Government - 40%
  • For-profit Organization - 50%

What our graduates have to say:

  • report a higher level of responsibility at work since graduation.*
  • say they have acquired practical skills they were able to apply to their job.*
  • would recommend our online program to someone they know.*

Read more about our Master of Arts in History student outcomes.

*Source: Norwich University Master of Arts in History Graduate Survey, fielded in February 2016; percentages are based on those who responded.

 

Faculty & Staff

Our Master of Arts in History program is led by expert doctorate faculty and dedicated staff members. Through their leadership, the program challenges you to enhance your writing, analytical skills, and subject matter expertise, and introduces you to the major historical themes and debates in the field of study. Our staff members provide additional support, guiding you from day one to graduation.

We have an in-house instructional design team that work hand-in-hand with program faculty and staff to ensure an efficient and interactive online learning experience in each course.

Alumni

Get to know the graduates of Norwich’s online Master of Arts in History program.

Featured Alumni

portrait of tiffany

Personally, the [history] program renewed my interest in research, critical thinking, and writing.

Tiffany Sakahar-Petersen
Class of 2017
Master of Arts in Military History
portrait of Jonathan

I've become a better reader and writer of history and analyzing different types of things.

Jonathan Sierputowski
Class of 2014
Master of Arts in Military History
portrait of Tammy

The thing I find most impressive about the university is its approach to teaching and methodology. The professors are experts in their field and they act as a mentor. They give students the tools and allow students to develop themselves along with their peers.

Tammy Partridge
Class of 2014
Master of Arts in Military History

Frequently Asked Questions

What courses can I take in the history program?

After completing the program’s core courses, students can choose an elective specific to their interests in American history. Course topics include historiography; Colonial, revolutionary, and early national history; and 19th- and 20th-century America.

What concentrations may I specialize in?

You can choose to complete either the American History track or the World History track.

Can I take courses from the military history program?

Yes, in fact, both programs share one course: MH510 Introduction to History and Historiography. Master of Arts in History students also have the option of taking MH550 U.S. Military History as an elective.

Is there a capstone or thesis option?

Yes. The last course of the history program is devoted to your capstone paper. An optional thesis track provides the opportunity for a focused research and scholarly investigation in addition to your coursework. The thesis option extends the program time to completion by at least one additional semester.

How are the history program faculty members selected?

History program faculty all have terminal degrees and have extensive subject matter expertise in history - American history, in particular. They must demonstrate a wide range of university/college-level teaching experience, and a strong research record. Our faculty members are also active in publishing their academic scholarship, presenting at conferences and editing manuscripts.

Is it possible to work full-time while enrolled in the history program?

Yes, the history program is designed to complement your day-to-day work schedule.

What are the eligibility requirements for applying to the program?
  • A bachelor's degree from a regionally or nationally accredited institution or an equivalent degree from a foreign institution, as evaluated by WES, IERF, or SpanTran.
  • A GRE score is not required but may be requested based on your undergraduate GPA.
  • If English was not the language of degree study, proof of English language proficiency and minimum score of 550 (paper-based test) or 80 (internet-based test, or iBT) on the TOEFL are required, unless otherwise noted in specific articulation agreements
How much is the online Master of Arts in History program?
  • Price per Credit: $719
  • Term Tuition: $4,314
  • Technology Fee: $300/term
  • Library Fee: $75/semester
  • Graduation Fee: $150/one-time         
  • Total Program Cost (6 terms): $28,284
How long is the history program?

The program’s six courses (each six credits) take approximately 18 months to complete. Depending on when you start the program, you can expect your degree to be conferred in 18 to 24 months. Thesis students will spend an additional seminar to complete their studies.

Can I enter this program if I’ve already graduated with a degree in military history from Norwich?

Yes, students who have previously completed the military history master’s degree are welcome to apply and study in the history program. They typically will receive six transfer credits, and if they also completed MH550 U.S. Military History, the total number of transfer credits they are eligible to receive is 12. 

Does Norwich accept transfer credits?

When you apply for admission to the Master of Arts in History program, you can submit transcripts and course outlines from previously attended institutions of higher education to be considered for transfer credits. Transfer credits will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and may be accepted for up to 12 credits. Norwich complies with VA regulations and guidelines as they pertain to transfer credits.

Learn More About our Online Master of Arts in History

Get Program Details Pre-Qualify