About Our Program

Why study American History and Government at Ashland University?

Your goal as a teacher is to instill in your students a passion for the story of America.  By earning your Master of Arts in American History and Government at Ashland University, you will develop the deep knowledge and robust analytical skills necessary to achieve this goal.

Focus on Original Historical Documents

Original documents tell the story of America in the words of those who lived it.  There are few better ways to illustrate the experiences of Americans from all walks of life than to delve into the words the wrote, the speeches they gave, the ideals they espoused, and the illustrations and photographs they created. 

Unlike traditional programs in education or in the liberal arts, this program focuses on these original sources.  You, your fellow students, and your instructor will explore the American experience through the study of these records in each class meeting.  You will find that this is not only the best path to historical understanding, but that you are also discovering new resources for use in your own classroom.  If you are like many of our students, you just may discover that you no longer need that dusty old textbook. 

A Noted and Distinguished Faculty

In addition to the faculty of Ashland's own Department of History and Political Science, the MA program's unqiue schedule makes it possible for distinguished faculty from universities around the nation to participate.  You will not find a greater variety of faculty scholarship in any other program. 

Flexible Course Options

 At Ashland, you can learn from leading historians and political scientists while you work full time.  Our schedule is designed specifically to meet the needs of teachers. 

Live Online Courses

Perhaps you have explored online courses in the past, but were turned off by the static and impersonal nature of discussion boards with faceless classmates and recorded lectures from a distant instructor.  Live Online at Ashland is unlike any other online offering.  Using typical broadband internet and a simple webcam, Live Online offers a truly interactive online experience which feels just like a traditional classroom.  Learn more. 

Weeklong Summer Courses

Take advantage of your school's summer vacation by becoming part of a community of scholars who share your love of history and your passion for teaching.  Our Weeklong Summer courses are a way to focus on your studies away from the distractions of home.  Offered on our main campus in Ashland, Ohio, you can network with fellow teachers while you learn from distinguished professors from universities around the country.  Learn more. 

Earn Your Degree in as Few as 15 Months

With a combination of Live Online and Weeklong Summer study, you can earn your Master of Arts degree in as few as 15 months.  Need to balance personal and professional commitments while you study?  You can set a pace which fits your needs, up to a maximum of ten years. 

Apply Today and Take Your First Course for Free

Ready to get started? We can help. Newly admitted degree-seeking students receive their first weeklong summer course at our Ashland, Ohio campus tuition-free. Apply today!