Program Overview
Discover the Rich Pageantry of American History
Become an expert in the people, places, events and ideas of the American experience with Ashland's Graduate Certificate in United States History. The program is designed for secondary school teachers, public policy professionals, legislative and executive staffers, museum or historical society curators and others with a personal or professional interest in the history of the United States.
Improve your Teaching and your Professional Marketability
With many states and school districts now offering College Credit Plus (CCP) programs—college-level courses taught on high school campuses—teachers need courses that can prepare them for the challenge of college-level instruction. Whether your state calls it College Credit Plus, Dual Enrollment, Dual Credit, Postsecondary Education Option or by another name, Ashland’s Graduate Certificate Program in United States History is suitable for secondary school teachers who already hold a graduate degree in another field, but want to become qualified to teach postsecondary courses in U.S. history.
Who Should Apply?
- Secondary school teachers with a master's degree in another field who seek to become qualified to teach postsecondary courses in history
- Those with a master's degree in another field who seek to teach undergraduate courses on an adjunct basis
- Legislative or other local, state or federal government staffers and others interested in improving their knowledge of United States history
- Anyone with a personal or professional interest in American history
A Note for Those Seeking to Teach at the Postsecondary Level
In higher education, hiring institutions determine the qualifications required for potential instructors. Typically, this is a master’s degree in the subject area to be taught OR a master’s degree in any field plus 18 hours in the subject area. Consult the hiring institution for their exact requirements. We strongly encourage you to contact your school district's higher education partner or a potential employer for guidance before you begin your studies.
While the certificate program is open to anyone with a bachelor's degree or higher, it is unlikely that your bachelor's degree plus this certificate will qualify you to teach postsecondary courses. Our Master of Arts program in American History and Government, however, can prepare you for that opportunity.