Why a History degree?

Which Careers are Good for History Degrees?

A degree in history opens the door to a wide range of career opportunities. Graduates with a history degree possess critical thinking, research, and analytical skills that are highly valued in various fields. Here are some of the top career paths for history majors:

1. Education: Teaching at the secondary or post-secondary level, working in educational administration, or becoming an educational consultant. 

[Education is a great career. - Mr. Hutchings]

2. Research: Working as a researcher for museums, historical organizations, cultural institutions, or think tanks.

3. Public History: Careers in museums, archives, preservation, and heritage management.

4. Law: Pursuing a career as a lawyer, paralegal, or legal researcher, where the ability to analyze and interpret complex texts is crucial.

5. Public Policy: Roles in government, non-profits, or international organizations that require skills in research, analysis, and communication.

6. Journalism and Media: Writing for newspapers, magazines, or online publications, or working in broadcasting, where the ability to understand context and tell compelling stories is key.

7. Business and Marketing: Positions in management, marketing, and human resources, where analytical and communication skills are highly valued.

8. Library and Information Science: Becoming a librarian or information specialist, managing collections and helping users find and interpret information.

9. Corporate Sector: Roles in consulting, market research, and corporate communications, leveraging the ability to understand historical trends and contexts.

10. International Relations: Working in diplomacy, intelligence, or international development, where a deep understanding of historical contexts and geopolitical dynamics is essential.

See this list for famous people with history degrees

For a deeper appreciation of how history can benefit your career outlook, refer to these sources:

1. Andrews, Garret. “What can you do with a history degree? 7 Careers in History.” Edited by Brenna Swanston. Forbes Advisor, 2 August 2023, www.forbes.com/advisor/education/arts-and-media/careers-in-history/

2. “Careers for History Majors.” American Historical Association, 2024, www.historians.org/teaching-and-learning/why-study-history/careers-for-history-majors

3. “Facts about history majors from credible sources.” Employed Historian, employedhistorian.com/history-major/facts-about-history-majors-statistics/. Accessed 11 June 2024.

4. “Historians.” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/historians.htm. Accessed 11 June 2024.