Choosing between earning a master’s or a doctoral degree is an important decision for history graduate students. When comparing a history MA to a PhD, prospective students must consider factors such as time commitment and long-term career goals to determine which path aligns with their academic expectations and the type of work they hope to pursue.
Eastern Washington University’s (EWU) online Master of Arts in History program offers working professionals and aspiring historians a flexible, career-focused pathway to advancing their education. The program’s robust curriculum explores American, Latin American, British and World History while helping students develop their research, analysis and writing skills. Understanding how EWU’s online master’s program differs from a PhD and other doctoral programs in history can help prospective students clarify which academic route best fits their ambitions.
What Skills and Knowledge Do Students Gain in a History Master‘s Program?
A master of arts in history typically requires about two years of full-time study. Students complete advanced coursework in historiography, research methods and specialized historical fields. Many programs culminate in either a thesis or a comprehensive research project, allowing students to demonstrate mastery of analytical and writing skills.
A master’s degree in history emphasizes applied research and professional development. Students learn to evaluate sources, construct persuasive arguments and communicate complex historical ideas clearly. These skills translate well to careers in education, museums, archives and cultural institutions.
What Does a History PhD Program Involve?
A PhD in history represents the highest level of academic training in the discipline. Most doctoral programs in history require five to seven years of full-time study. Students complete advanced seminars, comprehensive examinations and a dissertation based on original research that contributes new knowledge to the field.
The dissertation is the defining feature of a history PhD. Candidates identify a specialized research question, conduct extensive archival or field research and produce a book-length manuscript. This process demands sustained scholarly focus and a deep commitment to academic inquiry.
Career Outcomes and Professional Opportunities: MA vs. PhD
When evaluating history MA vs. PhD options, career alignment should guide the decision. A history master’s degree supports roles in secondary and postsecondary instruction, government agencies and cultural organizations. Graduates often apply historical research skills in policy analysis, public programming or archival management. For professionals seeking advancement without committing to extended doctoral study, an MA in History program offers a focused and efficient pathway.
PhD holders may pursue tenure-track appointments, lead research initiatives and contribute to scholarly publications. Some also work in public policy analysis or high-level consulting roles where advanced research expertise is essential.
At the university level, career outcomes for PhD graduates often center on teaching and advanced research positions. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), historians earned a median annual wage of $74,050 in 2024, while archivists, curators and museum workers earned a median annual wage of $57,100.
The BLS projects employment for historians to grow slowly but steadily at 2% from 2024 to 2034, and postsecondary teaching positions to grow 7% over the same period. These projections highlight demand for historical expertise. Roles such as these often require a master’s degree and strong research competencies.
The BLS reports that postsecondary history teachers earned a median annual wage of $83,980 in 2024. Doctoral graduates often seek a tenure-track role, but there can also be strong competition for other academic positions. A PhD is typically required to pursue university-level research and faculty appointments.
Time Commitment and Program Requirements
Time investment remains one of the most practical distinctions between a history master’s degree and a history PhD. An MA program generally involves two years of coursework and research. Many online formats offer flexibility for working professionals, allowing students to balance academic advancement with employment and family responsibilities.
In contrast, a PhD requires several additional years of intensive study. After completing coursework, students prepare for comprehensive exams and then devote substantial time to dissertation research and writing.
Funding structures and residency requirements can also shape the doctoral experience. Prospective students should carefully consider their time availability, finances and long-term professional plans. For individuals seeking career advancement within a defined timeframe, an MA in history program may provide a more manageable path, while those committed to scholarly research careers may find the extended doctoral timeline appropriate.
Making Your Decision: Which Path Is Right for You?
Clarifying professional goals is the first step in choosing between an MA and a PhD program. Students interested in teaching, working in museums or applying historical analysis in public or private sectors may find that a history master’s degree meets their needs. The MA builds research competence without requiring the extended time and financial commitment of doctoral study.
A history PhD is typically necessary for those pursuing tenure-track university positions or highly specialized research careers. Individuals drawn to original scholarship and long-term academic research should weigh the intellectual rewards against the time and professional demands of doctoral programs in history.
Some students complete a Master of Arts in History before deciding whether to pursue a PhD. This approach allows them to refine research interests, strengthen academic credentials and evaluate whether doctoral study aligns with evolving career goals.
Advancing Your Career With the Right History Graduate Degree
History education plays a critical role in helping individuals connect contemporary civic and cultural issues with the past. Both the MA and PhD pathways offer meaningful opportunities for professional growth. The key difference lies in scope and specialization. A history master’s degree provides advanced training and versatility across education, government and cultural institutions. A history PhD focuses on original scholarship and university-level teaching.
For working professionals seeking an accessible yet rigorous graduate credential, EWU’s online MA in History program offers a structured yet flexible option. Graduates complete the program equipped with the research skills, historical knowledge and academic credentials needed to take that next meaningful step in their career.
Learn more about EWU‘s online Master of Arts – History program.
