Bachelor of Arts in American History

Exploring the rich and diverse history of the United States, the Bachelor of Arts in American History program at American Public University offers students an in-depth understanding of the socio-political, cultural, and economic developments that have shaped the nation. This comprehensive program is designed for individuals passionate about examining the historical context of America’s past, critically analyzing historical sources, and applying historical knowledge to contemporary issues. Throughout the program, students will engage with a wide range of topics including the colonial period, the American Revolution, Civil War and Reconstruction, the Progressive Era, the World Wars, the Civil Rights Movement, and recent historical developments. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and analytical writing, equipping graduates with the ability to interpret historical events and trends rigorously and thoughtfully.

The program incorporates a variety of courses that focus on different eras and themes in American history, such as American political development, social movements, economic transformations, and cultural shifts. Students also gain insight into historiographical debates and methodologies, enhancing their ability to evaluate diverse sources and perspectives. The flexible online format enables students to study at their own pace, balancing their education with personal and professional commitments. Students will have access to distinguished faculty members who are experts in American history and related disciplines, providing mentorship and guidance throughout their academic journey.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in American History program are prepared for careers in education, research, public history, government, non-profit organizations, journalism, and more. They develop critical skills including analytical reasoning, effective communication, research proficiency, and digital literacy, which are highly valued in various professional settings. Additionally, the program lays a strong foundation for students interested in pursuing advanced studies in history or related fields. With a commitment to academic excellence and a focus on real-world applications, the American Public University’s American History bachelor’s program aims to foster informed, engaged, and critical thinkers ready to contribute to society through a profound understanding of American history.

The American History degree program at American Public University offers a comprehensive exploration of the history of the United States, from its colonial origins to the modern era. This program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the social, political, economic, and cultural developments that have shaped the nation over centuries. Through a diverse range of courses, students will examine key events, figures, and movements that define American history, including the American Revolution, Civil War, Reconstruction, the Civil Rights Movement, and contemporary issues. The curriculum emphasizes critical analysis and historiographical understanding, encouraging students to evaluate multiple perspectives and develop their own interpretations of historical phenomena.

Students will have opportunities to study major themes such as federalism, constitutional development, immigration, race and ethnicity, gender roles, and economic change. The program also explores regional differences and the evolution of American society across different time periods. In addition to foundational courses, students can select from specialized electives that delve into specific eras or thematic topics, allowing for a tailored educational experience aligned with their interests and career goals. The program incorporates various teaching methods, including lectures, research projects, discussions, and multimedia resources, to foster active learning and critical thinking skills.

Graduates of the American History program will be prepared for careers in education, research, public history, government, and related fields. They will develop valuable skills such as analytical writing, thorough research, and effective communication, which are essential in many professional contexts. The program also emphasizes ethical scholarship and the importance of understanding diverse viewpoints within American history. Whether students aim to pursue advanced degrees or enter the workforce directly, the American History program at American Public University provides a solid foundation for lifelong learning and engagement with America's past.

Program Requirements:

To complete the Bachelor of Arts in American History at American Public University, students must fulfill a series of academic and credit requirements designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of American history, culture, and society. The program requires the successful completion of a minimum of 120 credit hours, including general education, core missions, and elective courses. Students beginning the program are advised to complete foundational general education courses such as English Composition I and II, Introduction to Sociology, and College Algebra or its equivalents, typically totaling around 30 credits, establishing a broad academic foundation.

The core curriculum emphasizes American history, requiring students to complete at least 36 credit hours in history courses focusing on different periods and themes. These courses include American History to 1865, American History Since 1865, and courses on specific topics such as the Civil War, Reconstruction, the Gilded Age, the Great Depression, Civil Rights Movement, and recent American history. These courses are designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of the historical processes that shaped the United States.

In addition to history courses, students are required to take courses in American government, political systems, and related social sciences, amounting to approximately 9 credits to foster an understanding of the political context of historical developments. To enhance research and writing skills, students must complete at least two historiography or research methodology courses, often integrated into the history courses themselves or as separate electives.

Elective courses are intended to expand students’ knowledge of related disciplines such as American literature, economics, or foreign policy, with a requirement of approximately 15-24 credits. An optional capstone project or comprehensive exam provides an opportunity for students to demonstrate their mastery of American history topics.

Throughout the program, students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 to ensure satisfactory academic progress. Internship opportunities or experiential learning may be available for qualified students to gain practical insights into historical research or museum curation, although these are not mandatory. Overall, the program’s structure aims to prepare graduates for careers in education, research, government, or further graduate study in history or related fields, providing both a broad liberal arts education and specialized historical knowledge.

The American Public University offers a comprehensive financial aid and tuition financing program for students enrolled in the American History degree program. Students have access to a variety of funding options designed to make higher education affordable and accessible. Federal financial aid programs, including federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities, are available to eligible students through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The university also participates in the Federal Pell Grant program, which provides need-based grants to undergraduate students.

In addition to federal aid, American Public University offers institutional scholarships and military-specific financial assistance, recognizing the diverse backgrounds of its student body. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership, and financial need, and are available to both new and returning students. The university also offers tuition reimbursement programs for military personnel and veterans, supporting those who are serving or have served in the armed forces.

Students can benefit from flexible payment plans that allow for manageable installment payments over the course of their degree program. These plans help reduce the immediate financial burden and provide budget stability throughout studies. For online students, financial support may also include partnerships with financial institutions that offer private loans with favorable interest rates and repayment terms.

American Public University frequently updates its financial aid offerings to adapt to changing economic conditions and student needs, ensuring that financial assistance remains accessible. Additionally, the university provides detailed guidance and counseling services to help students navigate the application processes and maximize their aid eligibility. Overall, the financing studies at American Public University are designed to support students financially at every stage of their educational journey, facilitating access to quality education in American History without undue financial hardship.

The American History program at American Public University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the historical development of the United States. This program explores key events, influential figures, social movements, economic developments, and political changes that have shaped the nation from its founding to the present day. Students will examine various periods in American history, including the Colonial era, the Revolutionary War, the Civil War and Reconstruction, the Gilded Age, the World Wars, the Civil Rights Movement, and contemporary issues. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to interpret historical sources and texts.

The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in education, government, research, or related fields, or to continue their education at the graduate level. Coursework may include topics such as American political development, social history, cultural history, and the history of different regions and communities within the United States. Students have access to extensive online resources, including digital archives, scholarly journals, and multimedia materials, facilitating an engaging and flexible learning environment.

American Public University prides itself on providing accessible education tailored to working adults and non-traditional students. The American History program typically offers a variety of core courses, electives, and capstone experiences that enable students to explore specific interests in depth. Faculty members are experts in their fields, many with practical experience and scholarly publications. The program also encourages students to develop skills in research, writing, and presentations, vital for careers in education, public history, policy analysis, and other fields.

Graduates of the program often pursue roles in museums, historical societies, government agencies, or continue their academic pursuits through master's or doctoral programs. The university emphasizes the importance of historical literacy and understanding in fostering informed citizenship and engaging with contemporary societal issues through a historical lens. The American History program at American Public University is committed to providing a rigorous, relevant, and flexible curriculum that prepares students for professional success and lifelong learning in the field of American history.