History Department - Careers in History

Why Study History?

What can you do with a history degree? Skills from history, such as critical thinking and analysis, are valuable in jobs because they enable individuals to assess information accurately and make informed decisions. Understanding context and recognizing bias helps in evaluating complex situations and developing strategic solutions. Effective communication and research skills, honed through historical study, are essential for presenting ideas clearly and persuasively in any professional setting.

Lawyer

A degree in history can offer unique advantages to individuals pursuing a career in law. History graduates often possess strong research, analytical, and writing skills. These skills are invaluable in legal practice, where attorneys must meticulously analyze case law, statutes, and precedents to construct compelling arguments.

High School Teacher

History teachers can leverage their knowledge to foster a deeper appreciation for diversity and cultural understanding in the classroom, helping students become informed global citizens. History-educated teachers can inspire students to think critically, empathize with different viewpoints, and develop a broader understanding of the world around them.

Police officer

History graduates often possess strong critical thinking, research, and analytical skills, which are essential for investigating complex cases and analyzing evidence. Studying history allows individuals to develop a deep understanding of human behavior, societies, and cultures, enabling police officers to better navigate diverse communities and understand the historical context behind certain behaviors or conflicts.

Politician

A deep understanding of historical events provides insights into the consequences of political decisions. This helps politicians make more informed choices and anticipate outcomes based on historical precedents. Studying history allows politicians to recognize societal patterns, helping them navigate current issues with a broader perspective and address contemporary challenges with an understanding of their historical context.

diplomat

Learning history helps diplomats understand different cultures and their perspectives, making it easier to build positive relationships and navigate international issues with respect. History will help you gain an understanding about past conflicts and their resolutions. Diplomats can draw on this knowledge to find peaceful solutions and prevent misunderstandings between countries.

Museum curator

Studying history enhances your ability to provide meaningful context to artifacts, allowing you to create engaging exhibits that tell a story and educate visitors about the cultural and historical significance art. A background in history benefits museum curators with knowledge about proper preservation techniques, ensuring the longevity of artifacts.

Tour guide

Paris? Montreal? London, Ontario? Yes! History can help enhance your storytelling abilities to captivate audiences by weaving historical narratives and making the past come alive during tours! A solid foundation in history allows tour guides to provide deeper insights and context to the places they showcase, enriching the visitor experience with a more profound understanding of the historical significance behind landmarks and sites.

RESEARCH ANALYST

History-educated individuals develop strong analytical abilities, allowing them to critically assess information, identify patterns, and draw conclusions when investigating current events. Studying history teaches research skills, allowing researchers to navigate archives, databases, and sources effectively which is transferable to the systematic and thorough research required as an analyst.

university professor

A deep understanding of history allows prospective university professors to develop expertise in a specific area, contributing knowledge to academic communities and inspiring students with in-depth insights. Studying history teaches research skills, allowing researchers navigate archives, databases, and sources effectively which is transferable to the systematic and thorough research required as an analyst.

Activist

Historical knowledge equips activists with a comprehensive understanding of the roots and context of social issues. This allows them to advocate for change with a well-informed perspective! Studying history provides activists with examples of successful social movements and strategies, offering inspiration and insights on effective approaches to address current challenges and promote positive change.

journalist

History education fosters critical thinking skills, allowing journalists to analyze current events in a broader context and provide audiences with a more insightful understanding of the news. Studying history enhances research skills, enabling journalists to delve into historical records, archives, and sources to uncover relevant background information and provide well-researched and accurate reporting.

ARCHEOLOGIST

A background in history enables archeologists to interpret findings within a broader historical context, providing insights into the cultural and societal aspects of past civilizations. Studies in history can help archeologist identify potential excavation sites, conducting thorough analyses of artifacts, and contribute to the overall understanding of human history through archeological discoveries.

Librarian

Historical studies equip librarians with the knowledge to curate collections effectively, selecting and organizing historical materials in libraries to provide valuable resources for researchers, students and the community. The study of history enhances information retrieval skills, enabling librarians to efficiently navigate historical archives, databases, and catalogs, ensuring community members have access to accurate and relevant historical information.

Writer

Historical knowledge provides a vast reservoir of stories, events, and characters, offering writers a deep well of inspiration for creating engaging narratives and enriching their storytelling with authentic details. Studying history helps writers develop a nuanced understanding of human behavior, societal dynamics, and cultural nuances, allowing them to create well-rounded and relatable characters and scenarios in their writing.

"A generation which ignores history has no past and no future."

- Robert A. Heinlein

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