If you’re wondering what jobs can I get with a history degree, you’re not alone. Many graduates in history question how they can translate their knowledge and skills into a successful career path. The good news is that a history degree provides a versatile foundation, opening up a wide range of career opportunities across various industries.
What Jobs Can I Get With a History Degree?
History graduates possess critical thinking, research, and communication skills that are highly valued in the workforce. Let’s explore some of the career paths available for history majors:
1. Education and Academia
One of the most traditional pathways for history majors is a career in education. You can become a teacher at various levels, from primary to secondary education. Furthermore, with additional qualifications and experience, you have the opportunity to teach at college or university level. Besides teaching, you can work in administration, curriculum development, or educational policy.
2. Museums and Archives
Another popular sector for history graduates is the world of museums and archives. Roles such as curator, archivist, or museum educator allow you to work directly with historical artifacts and documents. These positions often require specialized knowledge of preservation techniques and historical research methods.
3. Research and Analysis
History majors are well-suited for research and analysis roles across different industries. You can work as a researcher for think tanks, historical societies, or governmental agencies. These positions often focus on archival research, data analysis, and report writing, making excellent use of the skills honed during your degree.
4. Government and Public Service
With a history degree, you can also pursue roles in government and public service. Opportunities include working as a policy analyst, legislative assistant, or diplomatic officer. Strong research, writing, and analytical abilities make history graduates valuable contributors to the development and communication of public policy.
5. Media and Communications
The media and communications industry offers diverse roles that history graduates may find appealing. Careers in journalism, editing, and broadcasting utilize the storytelling and analytical skills that are intrinsic to historical study. You might find yourself writing for historical publications or creating documentaries on significant historical events.
6. Law
While a history degree is not a direct qualification for practicing law, many graduates enter the legal field with further study. History graduates often excel in law school due to their strong critical thinking and argumentation skills. Careers in legal research or consultancy may also be viable paths.
7. Business and Consulting
In the business world, history graduates can work in roles related to market analysis, project management, and consulting. The ability to interpret complex information and draw meaningful conclusions is highly beneficial in these areas. Consider exploring our Beginners Guide to Jobs That Earn 80k a Year for more insights into lucrative career paths.
8. Writing and Editing
Many history graduates find fulfilling careers in writing and editing. You can author historical books, articles, and blogs, or work as an editor for historical journals and books. The ability to synthesize information and present it in an engaging manner is crucial in these roles.
Building a Career with a History Degree
While the paths above represent some of the most common careers for history majors, the options extend far and wide. Your degree can be the first step towards an exciting career in various domains. It’s important to consider additional certifications, internships, or postgraduate studies to enhance your employability and specialize in your chosen field. To learn more about educational pursuits, visit the Wikipedia Education Page.
Ultimately, when contemplating what jobs can I get with a history degree, consider your passions, skills, and the unique perspective that your historical training provides. With diligence and creativity, a fulfilling career is within reach.
- A history degree offers diverse career opportunities across various industries.
- Consider roles in education, museums, research, government, and media.
- Further studies or certifications can enhance career prospects.
- Strong analytical and communication skills are key assets.
- Explore unconventional sectors such as business and law for exciting opportunities.
What skills do history graduates possess that employers value?
History graduates have strong analytical, research, and communication skills. They excel in critical thinking, problem-solving, and can effectively analyze and interpret complex information.
Are there management roles available for history graduates?
Yes, history graduates can pursue management roles, especially in sectors like consulting, project management, and educational administration. Leadership skills and strategic thinking are important in these positions.
Can history graduates work in tech industries?
While tech isn’t a typical field for history majors, they can work in tech-related roles such as project management, user research, or technical writing, where their skills can be highly valuable.
Is teaching the only option for history degree holders?
No, while teaching is a popular option, history graduates can enter a variety of fields including research, law, public service, media, and business, to name a few.
How can history graduates enhance their job prospects?
History graduates can improve their prospects by gaining additional certifications, relevant work experience, internships, and considering postgraduate education in specialized areas.


