History Graduate Certificate
Study History
Explore the past and look to the future in the History graduate certificate program.
For lifelong learners, seasoned professionals, current ETSU students, and those passionate about the power of history, this certificate offers a flexible curriculum tailored to individual goals. Students will strengthen their research and writing skills while increasing their knowledge of history. Join a community of scholars dedicated to preserving and interpreting the richness of history.
This program offers students an opportunity to study history-focused courses.
Students wanting an in-person program may enroll in the on-ground History graduate certificate.
Local students who wish to continue after earning the certificate can apply all 12
credits to the ETSU M.A. History degree program.
Professional Preparation
The certificate is catered to working professionals and those who need to add or update the history component of their training. It will also work well for students currently earning a graduate degree who wish to include a certificate in history as part of their training to increase job prospects. Career opportunities include academia, K-12 teaching, private sector research, archival work, volunteering, and more.
Customize Your Learning
*Note: More courses are listed in the academic catalog, but are not available online. Interested students are encouraged to submit an inquiry form and discuss course options with a program coordinator prior to applying.
Required Course:
Elective Course Options (Choose 3):
- HIST 5034 - Africa Since 1800: From Colonial Rule to Independence
- HIST 5035 - The Founders, Religion, and the Constitution
- HIST 5021 - Tudor England, 1485-1603
- HIST 5038 - Campaigns and Battles of the American Revolution
- HIST 5018 - Black American Culture Since 1980 (Course in development)
Steps to Apply
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Step 1 - Create your ETSU Application Account
Step 1 Create your ETSU Application Account by choosing the "Sign Up" option

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Step 2 - Sign into the ETSU Application Portal
Step 2 Sign in to the ETSU Application Portal and select "Start a New Application"

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Step 3 - Complete the Remaining Fields
Step 3 Choose "Graduate," select your student type (domestic or international), select "Certificate," term, then choose History Graduate Certificate and complete the remainder of the form.


Cost
Credits to complete this program: 12 credit hours
Please note that enrollment in an on-ground course affects out-of-state student eRate
eligibility.
| TN Residents | *eRate | Out of State |
|---|---|---|
| $672 per credit hour | $835.50 per credit hour | $1,513 per credit hour |
| - The *eRate applies to students living out of state and taking all web-based courses. - Additional fees may be required. - Visit the Paying for College page to read more about costs and financial aid options. - The costs associated with attending ETSU can include both direct and indirect costs. Please review ETSU's Cost of Attendance for more details. |
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Frequently Asked Questions
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What accreditations apply to this certificate program?
East Tennessee State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate, master’s, education specialist, and doctoral degrees. East Tennessee State University also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of East Tennessee State University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC's website (www.sacscoc.org).
Additionally, students who complete this program may transfer up to 12 credits into the on-campus Master of Arts in History with approval from the Department of History's Graduate Committee. Only credits that are completed within the six-year matriculation period and meet GPA requirements will be accepted. -
Is a master’s degree required for admission?
A master's degree is not required for this program, and a student's undergraduate degree does not have to be related to this field.
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What are the prerequisites?
In addition to meeting the ETSU Graduate School admissions criteria, applicants must also satisfy the following program requirements:
- Hold an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution.
- Submit a writing sample, such as a paper that received credit in a college course (undergraduate or graduate), or a personal statement describing your interest in the certificate.
- Have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Applicants with a GPA below 3.0 can request an interview which may require completing an additional writing sample.
- Current ETSU graduate students must meet all of the above requirements and submit an Application for Dual Gradute Programs to the ETSU Graduate School.
All application materials must be submitted directly to the ETSU Graduate School as instructed by the deadline. Complete applications will be evaluated by the Department of History's Graduate Committee.
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Does this certificate require the GRE?
No. The GRE is not required for this certificate.
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Are the courses for this certificate asynchronous or synchronous?
Classes for this certificate asynchronous. However, there are on-ground courses available as an option for those interested.
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Are there any on-campus requirements?
No. The coordinator meets with new students via Zoom for an initial orientation and will maintain contact via email and meet with students per request. Students may choose to complete on-ground courses. They are free to do so and combine on-ground and online courses to earn the certificate.
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Does this certificate require fieldwork, a thesis, or an internship?
No. This certificate program does not require fieldwork, internship, or thesis for completion.
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Is this certificate designed to meet the needs of adults who work full-time and/or have family obligations?
Yes, this program is specifically designed for adults working full time or those with family obligations.
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What is the time to completion?
Full-time: Students can complete the program in two semesters, or one academic year should they decide to take 6 credits per semester. If students wish they can complete the program in the summer.
Part-time: Students who can complete only one course per semester are able to earn the certificate in four semesters or two academic years. Students must complete the program within six years.
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When can I start?
Students may start in the fall or spring semesters.
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Are scholarships available?
No, the History certificate program does not have any program-specific scholarship opportunities. Students are also encouraged to visit the Paying for Graduate School website for information regarding ETSU graduate scholarships and other financial resources.
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