Career Possibilities

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Current Career Opportunities For History Majors

Unlock Diverse Career Paths

A history degree equips you with versatile skills that open doors to numerous career opportunities beyond teaching. Here’s how you can leverage your history major:

Capitol

Teaching and Education:

  • Teach at primary or secondary schools.
  • Pursue advanced degrees in history or related fields.
  • Prepare for a career in teaching Social Science by completing a Subject Matter Preparation Program for secondary education.

Government and Research:

  • Work in federal, state, or local government roles where research skills are essential.
  • Join think tanks or cultural resource management teams.

Business and Communication:

  • Utilize your critical thinking and communication skills in business contexts.
  • Engage in writing, editing, or journalism, where conveying complex ideas clearly is crucial.
  • Manage historical projects, fundraise, or work in museums, archives, and libraries.

Law and Advocacy:

  • Study law or work as a paralegal.
  • Participate in legislative staff work or litigation support.
  • Contribute to foundations and advocacy groups.

Information Management:

  • Become an archivist, records manager, or librarian.
  • Manage information systems in various organizations.

Why Your History Skills Matter

Studying history hones your ability to analyze, research, and synthesize information. You’ll learn to:

  • Evaluate diverse sources and interpretations.
  • Develop strong writing and speaking skills.
  • Identify and explain trends, crucial for both public and private sectors.

Expert Insight

Historian Peter Stearns emphasizes that history students gain a broad perspective and research skills, making them adaptable in many work environments. These skills are highly valued by employers.

Career Preparation Resources

  • Internship and job listings
  • Resume and cover letter workshops

Make an appointment with a faculty advisor in the Department of History HERE or make an appointment with the Career Center HERE!

Explore Career Paths

  • Educators: Schools, colleges, museums.
  • Researchers: Historical organizations, preservation projects, think tanks.
  • Communicators: Writers, journalists, multimedia producers.
  • Information Managers: Archivists, librarians.
  • Advocates: Legal professionals, legislative staff.
  • Business and Nonprofits: Corporate historians, nonprofit associations.

Understanding and communicating the value of your history degree is key to your career success. Start exploring these paths and prepare to make a significant impact in your chosen field.

For more detailed career insights, visit American Historical Association Careers.