Program Overview
History is the study of the past, offering insights into the origins of the world of today and providing inspiration for future change. Studying history enables you to hone your writing and critical thinking skills and understand problems from various perspectives.
In the History Master’s Degree Program, you’ll have the opportunity to explore diverse approaches to the study of history in our well-rounded course curriculum. Whether pursuing your master’s for personal or professional reasons, you will work with faculty and peers who share your passion for history.
Through the master’s degree in the field of history, you will:
- Gain a deeper understanding of the world of today through your study of the past.
- Learn about diverse approaches to historical research, all founded on the analysis of primary sources.
- Develop the ability to communicate your research in clear and engaging prose, whether narrative or analytical.
- Build the critical thinking skills to engage in historical debate and appreciate the contested nature of historical understanding.
Program Benefits
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Customizable path & experiential learning
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Expert instructors, including faculty from Harvard University’s Faculty of Arts and Sciences
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Personalized academic advising
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A faculty-supported thesis
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Paid research opportunities
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Harvard Alumni Association membership upon graduation
Customizable Course Curriculum
Our curriculum is flexible in pace and customizable by design. You can study part time, choosing courses that fit your schedule and align with your career goals.
The diverse course offerings encompass different geographic areas and topical themes, including political, economic, cultural, and intellectual change. And they explore the role of race, gender, religion, class, and ethnicity in that change.
Sample Courses:
- Oral Histories
- Colonial America
- Power and Civilization: China
- The Culture of Capitalism
- History of Financial Crises 1637 to Present
- The United States and World Order since 1900
- Africa in the Western Imagination
11 Online Courses
- Primarily synchronous
- Fall, spring, January, and summer options
On-Campus Experience
Join faculty and peers in person for Engaging in Scholarly Conversation, which you can take in either:
- 2 weekends
- A 3-week summer session
See course spotlight.
Capstone or Thesis Track
Choose the track that fits your goals:
- Thesis: features a 9-month independent research project with a faculty advisor
- Capstone: includes exploring a topic and completing a project in a classroom community
Admissions
The path to your degree begins before you apply to the program.
First, you’ll register for and complete 3 required courses, earning at least a B in each. These foundational courses are investments in your studies and count toward your degree, helping ensure success in the program.
Next Start Term: Spring 2025
Enroll for your first admission course this spring. Course registration is open November 4, 2024–January 23, 2025.
To get started, explore degree requirements, confirm your initial eligibility, and learn more about our unique “earn your way in” admissions process.
Earning a Stackable Certificate
As you work your way toward your master’s degree, you can take courses that also count — or “stack” — toward a graduate certificate. It’s a cost-effective, time-saving opportunity to build specialized skills and earn a second professional credential.
For each certificate, you can choose courses that best fit your goals.
Stackable graduate certificates include:
Our Community at a Glance
With their historical and cross-culture knowledge of people, places, and political/social movements, our history students have gone on to top PhD programs.
Upon successful completion of the required curriculum, you will earn the Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in Extension Studies, Field: History.
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44
Average Age
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1–2
Courses Taken Each Semester
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74%
Work Full Time
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100%
Would Recommend the Program
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28%
Professional Experience in the Field
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Most
Pursued for Personal Enrichment
Career Opportunities & Alumni Outcomes
Our graduates go on to careers in academia, high school teaching, public history, and much more, and they publish their work for both academic and popular audiences.
With their historical and cross-culture knowledge of people, places, and political/social movements, our history alumni have gone on to top PhD programs at such universities as:
- Harvard University
- Boston University
- George Washington University
- University of Oxford
- Yale University
They are working in a variety of fields, including:
- Criminal justice
- Education
- Environmental services
- IT
- Public relations and communications
- Public service and government administration
- Research
- Writing and publishing
Career Advising and Mentorship
Whatever your career goals, we’re here to support you. Harvard’s Mignone Center for Career Success offers career advising, employment opportunities, Harvard alumni mentor connections, and career fairs.
Your Harvard University Degree
Upon successful completion of the required curriculum, you will receive your Harvard University degree — a Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in Extension Studies, Field: History.
Expand Your Connections: the Harvard Alumni Network
As a graduate, you’ll become a member of the worldwide Harvard Alumni Association (400,000+ members) and Harvard Extension Alumni Association (29,000+ members).
Tuition & Financial Aid
Affordability is core to our mission. When compared to our continuing education peers, it’s a fraction of the cost.
| Our Tuition (2024–25 rate) | $3,340 per course |
|---|---|
| Average Tuition of Peer Institutions | $4,330 per course |
| Average Total Cost | $40,080 |
After admission, you may qualify for financial aid. Typically, eligible students receive grant funds to cover a portion of tuition costs each term, in addition to federal financial aid options.
Learn more about the cost of attendance.
Coffee Chat: All About Liberal Arts Programs at HES
Are you interested in learning more about liberal arts graduate degree programs at Harvard Extension School? Attendees joined us for an informational webinar where they had the opportunity to connect with program directors, academic advisors, and alumni.
