We all thought and consider history a boring subject in school but, as we grow, university history classes are often a fascinating revelation after the typically watered-down (and sometimes inaccurate) curriculum presented in primary and secondary schools. Learning every detail about your country’s past, as well as other cultures, quickly fills up four years of intensive research and study. Despite your enthusiasm and hard work, however, it may not be immediately apparent at graduation what to do with a history degree. So, if you’ve chosen a history major without fully considering what options this would open up for you, here we uncover the 6 most popular history-related careers.
1. Archaeology
The work of an archaeologist can be research-based or field-related including excavation, but that is only one aspect of archaeology. You are free to specialise in particular objects of study. For instance, you can be an expert on coins called a numismatist, or an epigraphist who deciphers inscriptions. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) employs archaeologists and is entrusted with the maintenance of 3,600 monuments, state departments of archaeology of different state governments, heritage bodies, museums and other research institutions.
2. Historian
For many history majors, the ideal job after graduation will utilise every facet of their education. Historians research topics extensively, collecting data and verifying facts from numerous sources including books, letters, interviews, personal diaries, government records, archival photos and more by analysing these materials and sharing their significance with the world via presentations, exhibits, and publications. They often choose a specific area of study, like a region, period, or event, and complete a master’s degree with a focus on that speciality, can be independent experts who provide their expertise to a variety of organisations or take a position as an in-house historian for a community, business, government, university, non-profit, or other entity.
3. Archivist
GenZ knows to archive the stories and save them in their Instagram storage but earlier Many libraries and museum jobs included an archival role also had specific positions in a variety of institutions solely focused on the preservation of historical documents and objects they catalogue these items and use specialised equipment to scan, photograph and record delicate materials in modern digital form for longevity and wider distribution. They may also appraise materials, and assist with exhibitions. The UK requires a postgraduate qualification approved by the Archives and Records Association in addition to your history degree. While in the US, a master’s in history or library science will help secure an archival position. Volunteer work or internships are recommended.
4. Museum curators
Museum curators specialise in natural history, metals, terracotta, textiles, paintings, and other related things. It requires an artistic and aesthetic bent of mind along with administrative skills including the maintenance of records of each item, for instance, from where it has been discovered or acquired, its estimated age, conservation treatment and such details.
5. Librarian
Forget the image of librarians sitting quietly and reading, only stopping to shush patrons who make noise. Modern libraries are often lively with group discussions, tutoring, book readings, children’s interactive play areas, and even coffee shops. There’s a wide array of technology available for you to assist students, teachers, and community residents with their research and study, from archaic microfilm to archival photos on the internet. There are jobs in university and law libraries, or for careers catering to your introverted side, look for smaller, private, museum, or historical society libraries.
6. Broadcast Journalist
A history degree provides a solid foundation for many different fields, and your search for the perfect career may take you in some unexpected directions. Your dedication towards research, analysis, and putting events into historical context make you an excellent candidate for broadcast journalism, You can pursue news and human interest stories and write scripts for TV, radio, or Internet streams by attending press conferences, interviewing interesting people, and present completed stories or breaking news on air. Internships and internet gigs can help you work your way up to major broadcast roles. In the UK, you can also look into advanced degrees in journalism accredited by the Broadcast Journalism Training Council.
What are the benefits of pursuing a history career?
- Becoming a historian ensures a lifelong journey of learning and a strong dedication to safeguarding knowledge.
- Many historians (22%) find employment in federal government offices (Zippia, 2024), but there are also robust opportunities in other fields.
- Historians earn as much as $76,120 yearly, which provides graduates with a strong financial footing after they complete their studies [U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2023].
Why pursue a career in history?
- Amid crises, history guides our assumptions and courses of action. Historians constantly document recent global events ensuring that future generations will learn from our experiences today. There were certainly other times when humanity faced similar circumstances as their predecessors. When things like this happen, it’s best to consult historians on what to expect.
- History allows us to engage in normative discourse and gives us a chance to become better humans. The past is a treasure trove of stories that makes us understand the concepts of justice, freedom, equality, and other value judgments. It allows us to reflect on our shared humanity. Becoming a historian means examining our collective successes and failures and using collective memory to guide present and future actions.
A career in history can be greatly enhanced by evolving practical skills and gaining relevant experiences with strong research skills that are essential for analyzing historical documents and sources. Writing and communication skills are crucial for presenting findings clearly and engagingly, whether in academic papers, books, or public presentations.
