Program Overview
Through the History Master’s Degree Program, you’ll gain a perspective of the world today through evidence from the past. You’ll develop an understanding of why and how historical events unfolded through argument and interpretation. And you’ll build advanced critical thinking skills and historical insights using evidential, conceptual, and comparative frameworks.
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. With a wide array of courses to choose from, you can tailor your experience to meet your unique learning goals.
11 Online Courses
- Primarily asynchronous or synchronous
- Fall, spring, January, and summer options
On-Campus Experience
You’ll complete 1 on-campus course, Engaging in Scholarly Conversation, at an accelerated or standard pace:
- 2 weekends (1 in fall and 1 in spring)
- A 3-week summer session
Capstone or Thesis Track
- 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.
Getting Started
We invite you to explore degree requirements, confirm your initial eligibility, and learn more about our unique “earn your way in” admissions process.
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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43
Average Age
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1
Average Courses Taken Each Semester
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75%
Work Full Time
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100%
Would Recommend the Program
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27%
Professional Experience in the Field
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Most
Pursued for Personal Enrichment
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 (2023–24 rate) | $3,220 per course |
|---|---|
| Average Tuition of Peer Institutions | $4,330 per course |
| Average Total Cost | $38,640 |
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.
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.
