Ashland University

What you'll study

The degree requires 30 semester credit hours: 12 credit hours of required core courses that address the breadth of the American experience and 18 semester hours of electives to tailor the program to individual interests or professional needs. Students study original sources and interpretations across major periods of U.S. history.

• Required core (examples listed on the program page): HIST/POLSC 501 The American Revolution; HIST/POLSC 502 The American Founding; HIST/POLSC 503 Sectionalism and Civil War; HIST/POLSC 505 The Progressive Era; HIST/POLSC 506 The Rise of Modern America; HIST/POLSC 507 Lincoln.
• Electives: 18 semester hours of elective coursework allow customization around personal or professional interests.
• Degree completion options: Traditional thesis, an applied capstone project, or a qualifying exam are available as ways to complete the program.

Entry requirements

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and applicants may begin at multiple start dates throughout the year (including August, October, January, March and several dates during the summer). To apply, submit an application, original official transcripts from each institution that awarded a bachelor's-level or higher degree, and a $30 application fee. In most cases a decision is issued within about two weeks after all application materials are received.

Career prospects

The MAHG is designed primarily for secondary social studies teachers seeking stronger content knowledge in history and government. It is also appropriate for community college faculty and others with a professional or personal interest in American history or government. Graduates use the degree to deepen classroom content expertise, expand teaching options at the secondary or community college level, or pursue roles that value advanced knowledge of U.S. history and political institutions.

Scholarships & funding angle

Ashland offers financial supports including graduate fellowships you can apply for and a tuition waiver for a new degree-seeking student's first weeklong on-campus summer course. The program participates in the federal direct student loan program and provides payment plans to spread tuition across a semester. The program page cites an average total cost of the degree around $19,200 and lists per-credit tuition rates for on-campus and online delivery; check the academic catalog and admissions office for current figures and fellowship application details.