Studying history means learning where we’ve come from and how we got to where we are today. It helps us better understand the world and develop good citizenship. History is inspirational, and it helps to develop good critical thinking skills. In short, history is one of the most important subjects that students of all ages need to master. And with a master’s degree in history education, you can lead students as they work to understand history.
Why a Master’s Degree in History Education Matters
Geared toward current history and social studies teachers, a master’s degree in history education combines professional training in secondary teaching with an in-depth exploration of theory and practice. With this added education and experience, you’ll emerge from your degree program as a stronger educator, better prepared to serve students. Teachers with a master’s degree in history may also earn a higher salary in certain school districts, and become qualified for opportunities in school leadership.
Curriculum for Master’s in History Education Programs
Throughout your degree program, you’ll have the chance to learn new approaches to teaching history, form ties to academic historians, and experiment with curriculum development. Many programs include a mandatory internship or thesis; some will even help you acquire a secondary school teaching certification. Consult with the program coordinator if you have questions about what a particular program entails. Specific courses in master’s in history education programs typically include:
- Curriculum Development
- History Courses (American History, World History, European History, Western Civilization)
- Research Seminar in History
- Teaching Social Sciences
Where You Can Earn an Online Master’s Degree in History Education
The availability of online master’s in history education degrees has grown in recent years, with a number of schools opening up new programs to serve history educators. Online degree choices include:
- The University of West Alabama’s online master of arts in teaching serves both certified and non-certified candidates. Those seeking to focus on history are required to complete coursework in both U.S. history and world history.
- The three-year online master of arts in history from West Kentucky University is designed to prepare candidates to teach history on the junior and senior college level. To increase one-to-one interaction, students are asked to nominate a faculty member to mentor them in their chosen concentration.
Social networks and professional contacts may be of use when considering which program to pursue. See if your colleagues or supervisors have any recommendations.
Career Opportunities for History Teachers with an Online Master’s Degree
A master’s degree in history education from a recognized institution is near the top of many high school principals’ wish lists, both in private schools and public schools. A graduate degree in education can also be an avenue into administrative and school district positions — and a higher salary.
Interested in teaching history at a college level? Community colleges may be intrigued to hear about your online master’s degree. To teach full-time at a private or state university, however, you will need a doctorate degree. Frequent employers of educators with a master’s in history education include:
- Middle and high schools
- Junior colleges
- Community colleges
- Professional schools
- Educational consultancies
History teachers can expect a median annual wage of $66,790. Those employed by colleges or professional schools will earn a higher salary, typically about $76,620.
