Awesome Jobs for History Majors

Most people think that history majors have only a few career options but the truth is that everything is not as bad as it may seem.

If you don’t know what you can do after obtaining a degree in history we can ensure you that there are many options.

It looks so much confusion because it is hard to find a linear connection between your history education and future career.

Most history majors usually work in spheres that look like they have nothing in common with history.

The list of options includes journalism, event planning, office management, and others.

In other words, a degree in history is a perfect way to obtain knowledge and skills that can be applied in various spheres.

You aren’t obligated to follow some traditional paths for future majors as the modern labor market offers a bunch of other great options.

Most history alumni tend to have jobs related to business and even legal occupations.

As a result, a degree in history can provide you with a pretty fruitful career with an annual income of about $85,000 or even more.

Also, according to the data, the unemployment rate among history majors is much lower than the national average.

As you can see, the reality differs significantly from the image most people have about a degree in history.

Below, we’ve gathered some of the most amazing traditional and nontraditional career options for history majors.

Also, there are some useful tips for self-promotion while looking for a job with a degree in history.

Moreover, there are several options for those who do not have a degree in this sphere but still interested in history.

14 Jobs for History Majors With Bachelor’s Degrees or Higher

Of course, there are some entry-level jobs for those interested in history but usually, you need to have a degree in history in order to get a fruitful job.

Also, there’s a possibility to obtain a degree in a supporting field including such options as a business, law, geography, library science, and others.

Considering all these aspects, we’ve gathered a list of the most popular career options for history majors.

Just take a look at this list and you may be able to find your perfect career related to history.

Lawyer

Most universities state that a significant part of their history alumnus tends to pursue a career in law.

The reason is that after completing a training program in history, you can obtain some skills any successful lawyer should have.

As a lawyer, you need to be able to devise arguments using historic data and analyze incredible amounts of information in search of flaws and patterns.

During your training, you are going to spend your time doing lots of research and analysis.

In other words, if you have a degree in history, you should consider becoming a lawyer in case it is interesting for you.

Annual salary range—$58,220 to $208,000 or more
Job openings—157,700
Typical entry-level education—Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree

Geographer

One other career option for history majors is a geographer.

In most cases, history majors attended both physical geography and human classes.

As a result, they can find and analyze the relationship between economics, cultures, societies, and landscape.

After learning how humanity was influenced by historical events and geographic issues in the past, you can influence its future.

You can work on such issues as climate change, urban development, energy development, and air and water pollution.

Annual salary range—$50,720 to $109,900 or more
Job openings—200
Typical entry-level education—Bachelor’s degree

Post-secondary History Instructor

One of the most career options for history majors is a college or university instructor.

If you really passionate about history and want to show others how amazing it is, you should consider becoming a history teacher.

This job is perfect for those who want to influence others and help students to learn more about history.

History teachers not only plan and hold classes but also can participate in various researches related to history and publish your findings in scientific magazines.

Annual salary range—$40,600 to $134,170 or more
Job openings—8,100
Typical entry-level education—Master’s degree; may also require additional teacher training

Research Analyst

If you have a degree in history and now are looking for a job, you should consider becoming a research analyst.

One of the reasons is that most history training programs involve lots of research so you may have plenty of experience.

You may found that you are pretty good at sorting, analyzing, interpreting, and presenting various types of data.

You need to know that qualified research analysts are required in numerous spheres such as radio, film and TV production, publishing, and so on.

Working in these spheres, you’ll be obliged to research different stories in order to check their accuracy and credibility.

Also, there are numerous large companies that want to hire research analysts in order to perform market researches.

In other words, applying for this career, you’ll be able to find numerous job options that can provide you with a good income.

Annual salary range—$36,463 to $77,632 or more (based on 2016 data)6
Typical entry-level education—Bachelor’s degree; may require additional education or training for your specific field of employment

Elementary or High School Teacher

It is hard t find a better career option for a history major than the one related to teaching others about history.

If you like working with kids and are obsessed with history, a career of a history teacher in elementary and high school is exactly what you need.

Also, it is a great way to use your creativity so you can make lessons fun and engage.

For example, your students may be glad to recreate some historic events and it will let them remember the facts easier.

Just keep in mind that you need to complete some state-approved teacher training program after obtaining a degree in history.

Annual salary range—$37,780 to $97,500 or more
Job openings—107,000 Typical entry-level education—Bachelor’s degree; may also require state-approved teacher certification

Anthropologist

There are four main branches of anthropology that are archeology, cultural/social anthropology, biology/physical anthropology, and linguistics anthropology.

The fact is that all these subsectors are closely related to history which means that a degree in history can be a perfect way to enter the field.

Working as an anthropologist, you are going to analyze various historical aspects in order to understand how they influenced modern society.

Your work may help develop public, social, and even cultural policies as well as educate people.

Annual salary range—$36,840 to $97,170 or more
Job openings—1,200
Typical entry-level education—Master’s degree

Librarian

If you are obsessed with learning and acquiring knowledge, you should consider becoming a librarian.

It is a great option for people with a degree in history.

Librarians are responsible for the organization and management of different materials such as books, journals, newspapers, magazines, audio and video records, and so on.

Also, these specialists can help people who visit a library in search of some information.

Librarians usually work at public, school, or medical libraries but you may also find a job at research, technical service, or catalog systems.

Annual salary range—$34,630 to $93,050 or more
Job openings—29,500
Typical entry-level education—Master’s degree

Archivist

Nowadays, there are numerous pieces of valuable historical information that should be maintained properly.

It means that specialists who can collect and archive all these pieces are required.

Archivists are exactly those specialists.

First of all, they need to determine the value of each piece of information.

After it, they arrange all the pieces they have including documents, books, papers, letters, and so on, and describe the content of each piece.

Also, they are responsible for the preservation and restoration of all these pieces.

You need to know that it is one of the most fruitful careers for history majors as even an entry-level position in this sphere can provide you with more than $30 000 per year.

If you are interested in this career you need to obtain a master’s degree in history, archival science, public administration, library science, or political science.

The list of possible employers includes government agencies, businesses, community organizations, medical organizations, or cultural, educational, or religious institutions.

Annual salary range—$30,440 to $90,830 or more
Job openings—2,600
Typical entry-level education—Master’s degree

Curator

After obtaining a degree in history, you can get a position of a curator in one of museum or heritage sites in your area.

Curators are specialists that manage and oversee historical collections in the mentioned above places.

In fact, they should know how to create amazing and accurate exhibits and displays.

Also, they are responsible for acquiring, storing, and displaying various historical items.

In some cases, curators even perform cleaning of all these items especially those that require a specific approach.

Moreover, they may be involved in issues related to fundraising, promotion, and various research aspects.

Annual salary range—$29,010 to $94,330 or more
Job openings—5,100
Typical entry-level education—Master’s degree

Historian

If you have a degree in history and look for a fruitful career, you should consider becoming a real expert in this sphere.

Becoming a real expert in history, you can expect a pretty high income.

Historians hold various researches in order to learn more about past events and present their findings to people so we can learn about our past.

While major in history can be rather broad, most historians tend to specialize in certain areas and topics.

For example, you can decide to focus on a specific time period, culture, country, event, or even personality.

Lots of career options are offered by colleges, universities, private and government agencies, heritage organizations, and so on.

For example, you can work as a history expert for some film production company that wants to make sure their films are historically accurate.

An average salary of a history expert is about $64,220 per year that is a pretty good income.

Annual salary range—$29,270 to $110,670 or more
Job openings—500
Typical entry-level education—Bachelor’s or master’s degree

Event Planner

You may think that planning careers have nothing in common with a history major but believe us, you are completely wrong.

The truth is that you can work as an event planner at a historical or cultural organization or some charitable groups.

Working in this sphere, you have an opportunity to show your creativity and history knowledge while planning various events including special lectures, fundraisers, galas, tours, and so on.

This option is especially great for those who have some great sense of business.

Annual salary range—$27,560 to $84,900 or more
Job openings—21,800
Typical entry-level education—Associate or bachelor’s degree

Museum Conservator

Museum conservator is a specialist that is responsible for the preservation of human history and artifacts that tell this history.

In fact, museum conservators not only preserve but also restore and record various artifacts, archeological and historical items, and specimens.

Also, they make sure that each item is stored properly and help organize exhibits dedicated to various occasions and topics.

Speaking of artifacts storage, museum conservators need to make sure that there are appropriate conditions and all items well-preserved and repaired.

Some experienced and qualified museum conservators may educate others, oversee other museums, and even held special tours for visitors.

Annual salary range—$25,430 to $74,840 or more
Job openings—4,100
Typical entry-level education—Master’s degree

Editor, Journalist, or Writer

Lots of qualified specialists with a degree in history decide to pursue a career in mass media.

There are numerous options such as writers, journalists, editors, and so on.

For example, writers and journalists gather information and make sure it is accurate, verified, and complete.

These specialists need to have not only excellent writing skills but also critical and analytical thinking and history graduates are those who have all these features.

One of the greatest things about a career in mass media is that there are not only many jobs but you can also decide on a sphere you are interested in.

It can sport or fashion magazines, your newspaper, a college textbook, or scholarly journal.

Among other options, there are investigative journalism, scientific articles, screenplays, and even your own books.

If you decide to become an editor, this career is less creative but it requires more self-organization, excellent communication skills, and the ability to organize and lead others.

Annual salary range—$31,700 to $121,670 or more
Job openings—84,500
Typical entry-level education—Bachelor’s degree; additional communications training may be required

Administrative Assistant or Office Manager

Numerous historical organizations tend to hire qualified specialists that can handle various administrative activities.

If you have excellent communication and organizational skills, detail-oriented, and very organized and attentive person, this career is perfect for you.

As an administrative assistant, you will be responsible for scheduling meetings, preparing reports, and so on.

Annual salary range—$22,150 to $61,330 or more
Job openings—323,100
Typical entry-level education—Post-secondary diploma, associate degree, or bachelor’s degree

6 Careers for History Majors That May Require Additional Training

While pursuing your degree in history, you have an opportunity to develop a bunch of great abilities.

There are lots of jobs that aren’t directly related to history but still require excellent research and writing skills.

For example, you can look for a position that involves historical trends research and analysis for different purposes.

You may also be responsible for the presentation of your findings and making recommendations for managers, coworkers, board members, and others.

These are the most frequent responsibilities performed by history majors.

If you have a degree in history and want to decide what your next step should be, you need to consider all your variants before applying for graduate school training.

You may be able to find some great vocational options that will be a perfect addition to your professional education.

Below, there’s a list of 6 amazing careers that you can really enjoy while being a history major.

Human Resources Manager

A career in HR management is a great option for history majors especially those who studied such issues as the history of labor movement and workforce.

Having knowledge in this sphere and especially its history, you will be able to develop really effectively employee and company policies.

In order to become an HR manager, you need to have excellent analytical, communication, and writing skills in n addition to your history knowledge.

Annual salary range—$66,870 to $201,380 or more
Job openings—46,600
Typical entry-level education—Bachelor’s degree

Supply Chain Manager or Logistician

This career is perfect for those who are good at detailed analytics.

Working in this sphere, you are going to analyze historical data in order to identify the strengths and weaknesses of various supply chains.

Working in this sphere, you need to cooperate with a bunch of other specialists so you can get all the required information, analyze it, and decide on the best improvement strategies.

Also, you need to know how to present your findings properly so other members of your team as well as managers can understand your concepts well.

As a logistician, you will be responsible for the movement of different supplies and products between plants, warehouses, retailers, and customers.

Annual salary range—$44,440 to $119,950 or more
Job openings—20,600
Typical entry-level education—Associate or bachelor’s degree

Market Research Analyst

Market research analysts research various historical trends and events in order to reveal how they influence modern society.

Using the results of your researches, you are going to decide on the best ways to predict the upcoming trends and models of behavior in society.

Having a degree in history and a little training in marketing, you can easily get a job as a market research analyst.

This career is especially great for those who are interested in researches related to society and want to learn more about people’s behavior.

Annual salary range—$34,310 to $121,080 or more
Job openings—151,400
Typical entry-level education—Associate or bachelor’s degree

Filmmaker

Lots of history majors are really good at telling stories and they are pretty much interested in it.

Considering the fact, lots of people with a degree in history get a job in the filmmaking industry.

Usually, they work on small documentaries that tell about various historical events or some historical researches.

Also, you can get a job at one of those big film studios and work behind the scene helping to create fascinating historical movies.

Working in this sphere, you have an opportunity to share your knowledge with others.

Annual salary range—$34,450 to $163,540 or more
Job openings—50,500
Typical entry-level education—Associate or bachelor’s degree

Public Relations Specialist

Public relations specialists are pretty much similar to marketing researchers as they need to perform a whole bunch of researches.

Working in this sphere, you will be obliged to gather a variety of data, organize and analyze it so you can decide on the best PR and communication strategies.

PR specialists should have excellent writing skills so they can create high-quality, persuasive content.

Most history majors are really good at all these activities while they also have some extra skills that can help them analyze the preferences of people in the past and use this knowledge.

Annual salary range—$33,690 to $112,310 or more
Job openings—43,600
Typical entry-level education—Bachelor’s degree

Legal Assistant or Paralegal

If you are interested in legal issues but don’t want to enter a law school, you should consider becoming a legal assistant or paralegal.

Applying for one of these jobs, you have an opportunity to perform a bunch of legal work while supporting lawyers.

Usually, these specialists collect and research data related to different legal issues.

Also, they research facts, look for some missing points, and help lawyers to gather all the information they need to perform a sound argument.

Your skills and knowledge as a history major make you a perfect fit for this job.

Annual salary range—$31,400 to $82,050 or more
Job openings—82,700
Typical entry-level education—Post-secondary diploma or associate degree

History Major Career Options in Seemingly Unrelated Fields

You need to know that Walt Disney Company, FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation), NSA (National Security Agency), and Google, Apple, Nike, Time Warner, and CBS are among those employers that tend to hire lots of arts and humanity graduates including history majors.

In fact, there are lots of employers that seek for qualified specialists with excellent knowledge, skills, and capabilities in the mentioned areas.

Being a history major, you have lots of amazing job options waiting for you.

Due to the fact that you have some rather specific skills, you can easily perform the tasks that are difficult for others.

History majors know how to gather and analyze facts, can easily distinguish fiction and facts, are skillful in communication with others.

Also, due to their excellent knowledge of the past, they can easily reveal the best strategies for the future.

All these aspects make them one of the best employee options for numerous modern companies around the world.

When it comes to history majors there are many more career options than you may think about even including such spheres as banking and healthcare.

You may be rather surprised when you understand how many great job options these spheres can offer to you.

There are some of the most promising spheres for history majors that look for a job:

• Banking and finance – as a history major you can analyze and review various financial trends using information about pas economic cycles and issues. Also due to your excellent critical thinking, you can easily find some errors in the latest forecasts and predictions related to finances. In other words, history graduates are really perfect for work related to finances.
• Business management and marketing – if you are a history major and want to work in the business sphere, it is likely you will be responsible for market research and analysis, data collection, error identification, and so on. To be able to do it, you need to use your knowledge about related events and trends in the past. The truth is that there are lots of history majors who decide to continue their training and obtain MBAs (Master of Business Administration degrees) so they can succeed in marketing and business management faster.
• Government administration and politics – in order to work properly in these spheres, you need to have excellent knowledge about past events, policies, and related issues. In other words, it is one of the best employment options for history majors. Working in this sphere, you will be performing numerous researches as well as make some reports and participate in arguments. One of the most popular governmental jobs for history majors is an intelligence officer, lobbyist, legislative aid, lobbying researcher, urban planning researcher, political campaign researcher, public policy analyst, and others.
• Healthcare – compassion is one of the most important things when it comes to the healthcare system and the point is that due to their strong cross-cultural understanding of the world, history majors tend to have lots of compassion. In other words, history majors can find a bunch of great jobs related to the healthcare system. For example, they can help nurses gathering and analyzing information. Also, you can provide medical workers with accurate info about the latest changes and requirements so they can follow them properly.
• Information technology (IT) – as a history major you can get a job in IT that is related to project management, sales, education, consulting, or business development. The reason that these specialists have a great understanding of how technologies influenced our society, influence it now, and may influence it in the future. Having an understanding of how people interact with technologies, you may be able to suggest some effective solutions for different issues. Also, you may have a better understanding of the consumers’ needs and preferences, and present them to the IT team using your communication skills.
• International relations and foreign affairs – having excellent knowledge of history as well as numerous economic, political, religious, and social events of the past, you have a better understanding of different international processes around the world. It means that you can build a successful career in the sphere of international relations and foreign affairs. You can get a job at one of the government agencies, private companies, or international organizations including such options as the United Nations, IMF (International Monetary Fund), World Bank, Doctors Without Borders, Greenpeace, or Amnesty International.
• Tourism and hospitality – this sphere offers such job options as a tour guide, educator, heritage site manager, and a national park manager. All of them are great for people who have a degree in history. They are really great as you can share your knowledge and passion for history with other people. Also, you can help develop tourism in your area.

How to Use Your Resume to Sell Your Degree

If you have a degree in history, it is likely you have excellent reading, writing, researching, communication, and critical thinking skills.

The main point is that all these skills are very important and most employers look for educated people that are skillful in all these points.

According to the research held in 2016, most employers tend to look for candidates that have such skills as:

• Analyzing data;
• Communicating effectively;
• Leading and working on a team;
• Paying attention to detail;
• Planning and organizing;
• Relating well to others;
• Solving problems;
• Taking initiative.

In other words, as a history major, you can find a whole bunch of highly-demanded jobs that can offer you some good income as well.

You just need to prove your potential employer that you have all these required skills and can perform the job they need you to do.

Writing your CV, you need to use some real-life examples from school, university, and daily life that show how you use all these skills.

For example, you can tell about some great ideas that you came up with when working on some projects.

You can ask your classmates or former teammates for some help if you cannot remember various details.

Don’t forget that as a history major, you can use your knowledge of the past to analyze various economic, political, sociological, and even psychological issues.

Also, it is likely you have a bunch of experience of working with incredible volumes of data, identifying the most important aspects, and presenting them properly.

As soon as the list of skills and abilities is completed and polished, it’s time to pay attention to your cover letter.

You need to make sure it is well-organized and written properly.

Make sure to present your skills properly and tell about your strong sides such as the knowledge and abilities you got while obtaining your degree.

In simple words, you just need to prove that you will be the best choice and perfect fit for the organization, you are applying for.

Conclusion

You have a degree and now you know what career options you have so it is time to make your choice and do your best to achieve your goal.

If you are just thinking about applying for a history training program, you need to choose the best one.

There are lots of great options so you just should find the one that meets all your needs.