Concerns about the practicality of a history degree are common, with many believing it does not lead to a clear career path. This view, however, overlooks the professional opportunities available to graduates. A history degree is not about memorizing dates; it is a training ground that equips students with a versatile skill set applicable across numerous industries.
Valuable Skills You Gain from a History Degree
A history degree provides an intellectual toolkit that is in high demand across many professional fields. The study of history cultivates the ability to sift through, process, and analyze vast amounts of information. This process requires critical thinking to deconstruct complex events, understand the nuances of cause and effect, and recognize patterns in human behavior. This analytical capacity is honed through engagement with diverse and often conflicting sources.
A history curriculum is centered on research and writing, which develops strong communication skills. Students learn to conduct in-depth research, evaluate the credibility of primary and secondary sources, identify biases, and synthesize information into a cohesive narrative. This research underpins the creation of evidence-based arguments, a skill practiced through writing and in-class discussions.
The discipline also demands that students construct and present logical, persuasive arguments supported by evidence. This training in argumentation is useful in any profession that involves negotiation, advocacy, or decision-making. The ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and concisely, both in writing and orally, is a direct outcome of the history major’s academic work.
Popular Career Paths for History Majors
The skills acquired through a history degree open doors to a broad array of professions. The training in analysis and communication is a direct asset in fields spanning the public, private, and non-profit sectors, demonstrating the degree’s versatility.
Teacher
A traditional path for history majors is teaching, particularly at the secondary school level. In this role, individuals use their understanding of historical events to inspire and educate the next generation. The job requires crafting engaging lesson plans and communicating complex narratives in an accessible way.
Archivist or Museum Curator
For those who wish to work directly with historical materials, a career as an archivist or museum curator is a natural fit. Archivists appraise, process, and preserve historical records, while curators manage museum artifact collections. Both roles use research skills and historical context to interpret and present the past to the public.
Lawyer
The legal profession is a popular destination for history majors. The practice of law requires researching case law, interpreting statutes, and advocating for clients, all of which draw upon the rigorous analytical training of a history degree.
Journalist
Journalism relies on the ability to research and understand complex issues, identify key sources, and communicate information clearly to a broad audience. History graduates are prepared for this fast-paced environment, and their understanding of historical context can provide valuable perspective on current events.
Policy Advisor
Working in government as a policy advisor allows history majors to apply their skills to contemporary issues. These professionals work for elected officials or government agencies, researching policy problems and analyzing potential solutions. A deep understanding of historical precedents is often beneficial in shaping effective public policy.
Librarian
Librarianship is another field that values the research and organizational skills of a history graduate. Academic and research librarians use their expertise to help students and faculty navigate vast collections of information. This career path combines a love of knowledge with helping others access and evaluate information.
Business Analyst
In the corporate world, business analysts are tasked with identifying problems, analyzing data, and proposing solutions to improve a company’s efficiency. History majors are adept at detecting patterns and understanding complex systems, making them well-suited for this analytical role.
Marketing Manager
A successful marketing manager must understand consumer behavior, identify market trends, and craft compelling narratives to promote a product or service. The history major’s ability to analyze societal trends and understand human motivation can be a significant advantage in this field.
Intelligence Analyst
Government agencies employ intelligence analysts to assess information from various sources and provide insights on national security issues. This work demands strong research and analytical skills to synthesize complex data and communicate findings clearly. A history degree provides a strong foundation for this type of work.
The Role of Graduate School
While a bachelor’s degree in history opens many doors, some career paths require or are significantly enhanced by advanced education. For certain professions, a graduate degree is a prerequisite for entry-level positions.
For example, some professions have specific educational requirements:
- Lawyer: Requires a Juris Doctor (J.D.).
- Archivist or Librarian: Typically requires a Master of Library and Information Science (M.L.I.S.).
- Museum Curator: Often requires a Master of Arts (M.A.) in museum studies or a related field.
- University Professor or Research Historian: Necessitates a Ph.D. in history.
Other fields may not require a graduate degree but view it as a significant advantage. A Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) can accelerate a career in the corporate world, while a Master of Public Policy (M.P.P.) can be beneficial for those seeking senior roles in government. A master’s degree in history itself can lead to more advanced roles in teaching, public history, and research.
How to Market Your History Degree
Effectively communicating the value of a history degree to potential employers is key. You must translate academic experiences into professional competencies on resumes, cover letters, and in interviews. Instead of simply listing your major, focus on showcasing the transferable skills you have developed.
When crafting a resume, describe your academic projects using action verbs that highlight your abilities. For example, instead of stating that you “wrote a research paper,” you can frame it as having “managed a long-term research project, synthesized complex data from multiple sources, and delivered a persuasive, evidence-based report on findings.” This phrasing emphasizes skills like project management, data analysis, and communication.
In cover letters and interviews, be prepared to provide specific examples of how you have applied your skills. Discussing a time you analyzed conflicting historical accounts can demonstrate your ability to evaluate information critically. By reframing your academic work in this way, you can effectively demonstrate to employers that your history degree has prepared you for the professional world.