
Master's in History: Education Emphasis
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The Master of Arts (MA) in History with an Emphasis in Education is a blend of history content and pedagogical knowledge. The College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Grand Canyon University offers this master’s in history with an emphasis in education for aspiring history professors who wish to work with students at the undergraduate level. Prepare to share your passion for delving into historical events, people, cultures and trends, and inspire postsecondary students to think critically about the world around them.
This master’s degree in history with an education emphasis can be an ideal choice for individuals who are passionate about history and feel drawn to a teaching position. You will explore major historical events, themes and movements through the lens of cultural, military, economic and political perspectives.

Throughout your coursework for the master's in history with an emphasis in education, you’ll be challenged to think critically about the past. You will have the opportunity to develop a keen understanding of major historical narratives, arguments and interpretations, and you’ll examine best practices in pedagogical approaches. This master’s degree in history education highlights respectful collaboration with peers. It’s expected that you will develop a deep and meaningful awareness of and appreciation for diversity in all aspects of life.
In addition to exploring teaching methodologies and historical subjects, you will be taught advanced research methods in the field. At the graduate level, you will have the opportunity to critically evaluate the available literature in the field and develop a well-reasoned plan for your own research and professional participation.
Explore Our Christian University
As a faith-based university, GCU is pleased to offer academically rich degree programs rooted in the Christian worldview. The emphasis on moral, ethical and faith-integrated leadership is fully integrated into our history education curriculum.
Earn your master’s in history online while benefiting from the same quality of instruction and the same comprehensive curriculum as our on-campus students. With an online master’s in history, you may be able to fit your studies around your current schedule with access to coursework from virtually anywhere. Our interactive e-learning platform fosters collaboration and connection among learners, as well as regular access to instructors.
History is an inherently multidisciplinary subject, ideal for innately curious, lifelong learners. GCU’s master's in history with an emphasis in education incorporates coursework that speaks to this multidisciplinary nature.
You will be expected to develop a mastery of wide-ranging concepts such as the following:
You will also explore learning methodologies in distance learning, online education and traditional education. Learning paradigms, personalized learning and andragogy are examined.
Additionally, you must successfully complete a research seminar. As a seminar student, you will conduct an in-depth exploration of the literature and historiography of selected topics and apply graduate-level research methodologies. You will also develop your plan for professional participation in your field, including sustained research and publication.
This master’s degree in history with an education emphasis can prepare you to fulfill the graduate course requirements that are necessary to pursue opportunities in teaching at the postsecondary level. You may choose to further enhance your teaching qualifications by pursuing advanced studies at the doctoral level.(See disclaimer 1 )
Throughout the master’s degree in history education coursework, you will be prompted to develop competencies in the following:
Designing curriculum
Communicating research findings
Constructing, evaluating and challenging ideas
Developing technological solutions for distance learning
Prepare to share your passion for history with postsecondary students. Pursue opportunities teaching history students how to think critically, embrace diverse perspectives and learn from the past as they look to the future. A master’s degree may meet employer requirements for teaching at community colleges or other postsecondary institutions.
Beyond the classroom, a graduate-level history degree may prepare graduates to pursue employment in a diverse range of settings, including:(See disclaimer 2)
County, state and national parks
Historical sites
Media outlets
Museums
Historical archives
As an institutionally accredited university, GCU is committed to furthering its longstanding tradition of prioritizing academic excellence. Our instructors offer quality instruction and a thorough curriculum. Furthermore, the Higher Learning Commission has continually accredited GCU since 1968. The College of Humanities and Social Sciences shares the university’s commitment to upholding the principles and standards established by our accrediting bodies.
You may have some questions about your career and degree options. Use the following frequently asked questions and answers as you plan your path to higher education.
Is a master’s in history with an education emphasis worth it?
Can I become a teacher with the MA in History with an education emphasis?
Are there any prerequisite requirements before applying for the master’s degree in history?
Is being a history teacher a good career?
How do you become a history teacher?
How long is the master’s degree in history with an education emphasis?

Take a deep dive into historical topics and best practices in postsecondary pedagogy with this master’s in history online.
Visit the "State Disclosures" section on the page of the program you’re interested in at gcu.edu for details on state restrictions.
Online: $600 per credit [More Info]
Up to 12 credits or 1/3 of the total program requirements in transfer (whichever is less)
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission Requirements (Master's)
OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and
Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
* Degree must be from an accredited college or program that has been approved by GCU.
** Combined verbal/quantitative, after August 2011 (1,000 combined verbal and quantitative, prior to August 2011).