What Can You Do with a History Degree? A Comprehensive Guide
A history degree opens doors to diverse career paths while developing crucial analytical and communication skills that employers value across industries. Whether you're passionate about the past or seeking a versatile educational foundation, here's what you need to know about pursuing a history degree and the opportunities it presents.
Earning Your History Degree
A Bachelor of Arts in History typically takes four years to complete and involves coursework spanning different historical periods, regions, and themes. During your studies, you'll take both survey courses covering broad historical periods and specialized seminars focusing on specific topics or regions. Most programs require:
- Introductory courses in world history and your country's history
- Research methods and historiography classes
- Upper-level seminars in your areas of interest
- A senior thesis or capstone project
- Foreign language requirements (varies by institution)
Many programs offer concentrations in areas like American history, European history, Asian studies, or thematic focuses such as military history or women's history. In these courses you'll develop skills in research, writing, critical thinking, and document analysis while learning to construct and defend historical arguments.
Graduate Program Options
A history BA serves as excellent preparation for various graduate programs. Popular options include:
- Master's or PhD in History Leading to careers in academia, research, or advanced museum work
- Law School History majors consistently perform well on the LSAT and in law school
- Master of Library Science Combining historical knowledge with information management
- Master of Education Preparing for teaching careers at various levels
- Master of Business Administration Adding business acumen to analytical and research skills
- Public Policy or International Affairs Applying historical perspective to contemporary challenges
Career Opportunities for History Graduates
History graduates find success in numerous fields. Here are some common career paths:
- Museum Curator or Collections Manager - Organizing and interpreting historical artifacts and exhibitions
- Archivist - Preserving and managing historical documents and records
- Secondary School Teacher - Sharing historical knowledge with the next generation
- Historic Preservationist - Protecting and restoring historical buildings and sites
- Political Analyst - Applying historical context to current political situations
- Journalist or Content Writer - Crafting compelling narratives and conducting research
- Documentary Filmmaker - Bringing historical stories to life through media
- Corporate Historian - Maintaining company archives and writing institutional histories
- Policy Researcher - Analyzing historical trends to inform current policy
- Librarian - Managing information resources and assisting researchers
- Public Relations Specialist - Using communication skills to manage organizational messaging
- Historical Consultant - Advising on historical accuracy for media and publications
- Legal Researcher - Supporting law firms with investigative skills
- National Park Service Ranger - Interpreting historical sites for the public
Skills and Benefits
A history degree develops valuable transferable skills that employers consistently seek:
Critical Thinking: History students learn to analyze complex information, evaluate sources, and draw meaningful conclusions. This skill is invaluable in any profession requiring decision-making and problem-solving.
Research Expertise: The ability to find, evaluate, and synthesize information efficiently becomes increasingly valuable in our data-driven world.
Communication: History majors excel at both written and verbal communication, crafting compelling narratives and presenting complex information clearly.
Cultural Awareness: Understanding different historical perspectives and contexts develops empathy and cultural competency, crucial in today's global workplace.
Lifelong Learning and Success
Beyond career preparation, a history degree cultivates intellectual curiosity and lifelong learning habits. The skills you develop—analyzing complex situations, understanding different perspectives, and communicating effectively—serve you well throughout your personal and professional life.
History majors often report high job satisfaction and career flexibility. The degree's broad applicability allows graduates to adapt to changing job markets and pursue diverse opportunities throughout their careers. Whether you're interested in traditional historical work, business, law, education, or other fields, a history degree provides a strong foundation for continued growth and success.
Remember that while your degree is important, internships, networking, and extracurricular activities can significantly enhance your career prospects. Consider joining historical societies, volunteering at museums, or pursuing relevant internships to gain practical experience while studying.
