Distance Learning History Degree

Below are several prominent universities that offer distance learning programs in History:

University of London (UoL)

The University of London is one of the leading institutions offering distance learning in History through its network of colleges, including Royal Holloway, a respected partner in delivering online History programs. The University of London’s BA in History is an undergraduate degree that follows the same curriculum as its on-campus counterpart at Royal Holloway. This ensures that students, regardless of their location, receive the same level of academic rigor and expertise that on-campus students enjoy. The distance learning program allows students to study from anywhere in the world, offering them the flexibility to complete coursework according to their individual schedules. The degree is awarded by the University of London upon graduation, maintaining the university’s reputation for high academic standards.

One of the significant advantages of the University of London’s distance learning BA in History is its comprehensive and structured syllabus. The program covers a wide range of historical topics, from ancient to modern history, with modules that explore diverse periods and geographical regions. Students gain a thorough understanding of historical events, movements, and critical approaches, and are encouraged to develop strong research and writing skills. Because the program is developed and taught by academics from the Department of History at Royal Holloway, students benefit from a curriculum that is both academically challenging and deeply informed by current scholarship in the field.

In addition to the undergraduate degree, the University of London also offers postgraduate programs in History, including the Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma, and MA in History Education. These programs are designed for those looking to deepen their understanding of history and education. Developed by the School of Arts and Humanities within the Institute of Education, the MA in History Education is particularly suited for educators or those working in the field of history education who wish to improve their teaching skills while expanding their knowledge of historical theory and methodology. Applicants to these postgraduate programs typically need a second-class honours degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution.

De Montfort University

De Montfort University in Leicester, UK, offers an innovative MA in Sport History and Culture through distance learning. This program is designed for students who wish to explore the historical, cultural, and sociological aspects of sport, including its role in shaping societies throughout history. The program is ideal for those with a keen interest in the intersection of history, culture, and sport, providing students with an in-depth understanding of how sport has evolved and its significance in global history.

The course is fully delivered through e-based distance learning, which means that students can access it from any location across the globe, offering flexibility for those balancing work, family, or other commitments. The program is suitable for individuals already working in the field of sport or those with a background in history or cultural studies. Applicants are typically expected to possess a good honours degree (2:1 or above) in a related subject. The MA provides students with a range of analytical tools and methods, equipping them to critically engage with the history of sport and its ongoing cultural significance.

The program’s structure ensures that students are supported throughout their studies with a combination of online learning resources, including lectures, readings, and discussion forums. Assessments are typically essay-based, encouraging students to develop their research and writing skills while deepening their understanding of sport’s historical and cultural context.

The Open University (UK)

The Open University (OU) is one of the UK’s most established institutions for distance learning and offers two notable programs for History students: the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in History and the Master of Arts (MA) in History. The BA in History is a highly flexible degree, offering students the opportunity to study at their own pace while obtaining a well-rounded education in historical analysis. The degree is classified into four categories: first-class honours, upper second-class honours, lower second-class honours, or third-class honours, depending on the student’s academic performance.

The Open University’s BA in History covers a wide range of historical periods and regions, including medieval, early modern, and contemporary history, as well as specialized topics such as social history, gender history, and the history of ideas. Students learn to critically analyze historical sources, develop sophisticated arguments, and communicate their findings effectively through both written work and presentations. This program is particularly attractive to students who value flexibility, as they can choose from a variety of modules and adjust the pace of their studies according to their individual needs and schedules.

For those looking to pursue postgraduate study, the MA in History offered by the Open University provides students with a more specialized and advanced understanding of historical methods and theories. This program is particularly beneficial for those who wish to pursue a career in academia, research, or history-related fields such as archives and museums. The Open University is known for its strong support system for distance learners, offering regular tutorials, online discussion groups, and access to an extensive library of digital resources. The university’s emphasis on student support ensures that even remote learners feel connected and engaged with their academic community.

Sheffield Hallam University

Sheffield Hallam University offers the MA in History: Imperialism and Culture through distance learning. This program explores the historical context of imperialism, focusing on how imperial powers influenced culture, society, and politics. The course covers a range of topics, from the effects of colonialism on indigenous cultures to the role of imperialism in shaping modern global dynamics. This specialized program is ideal for students with an interest in cultural history, postcolonial studies, and the long-lasting legacies of empire.

The program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to study part-time over a minimum of two years and a maximum of six years. Each module is assessed by coursework, typically in the form of extended essays, allowing students to demonstrate their research and writing capabilities. The course provides students with the intellectual tools to analyze the historical processes of imperialism and culture, while encouraging them to engage critically with both primary and secondary sources.

Sheffield Hallam’s MA in History: Imperialism and Culture offers a supportive environment for distance learners, with regular online tutorials, peer support groups, and access to a wide range of digital resources. This program is ideal for those looking to advance their career in historical research, education, or the heritage sector, providing students with specialized knowledge in a rapidly growing area of historical study.

University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham offers a distinctive MA in Church History through distance learning. This program focuses on the history of Christianity, with particular attention to its theological, cultural, and social dimensions. Students can explore topics such as early Christian writings, medieval scholastic theology, the Reformation, and Christianity’s role in twentieth-century Britain. The program’s modules include “Research Methods and Resources,” “Earliest Christian Writings to the Mid-Second Century,” and “Scholastic Theology from the Eleventh to the Fourteenth Century,” among others.

The program is tailored to individuals with a strong interest in the history of Christianity and its cultural influence over the centuries. Through the use of online learning platforms, students are able to access course materials, engage in discussions, and participate in virtual seminars with faculty members and fellow students. The University of Nottingham’s distance learning MA in Church History is ideal for those seeking to develop expertise in a specific area of historical research, particularly those aiming to contribute to academic scholarship, religious education, or cultural heritage.