A degree in history doesn’t mean you’re confined to archives or libraries. In fact, today’s job market offers a wide range of historian degree jobs across industries like education, law, research, government, media, and business. Whether you want to work in academia, become a museum curator, or apply your skills in marketing or public policy, a history degree opens more doors than you might think.
This article will explore the top jobs for history graduates, average salaries, required skills, and tips for landing a great job with a history background.
What Is a Historian Degree?
A historian degree generally refers to an academic qualification (typically a bachelor’s, master’s, or Ph.D.) in history, historical research, or related disciplines such as:
- Historical studies
- Political history
- Military history
- Art history
- Classical studies
- Cultural heritage
These programs develop critical thinking, research, analysis, writing, and communication skills—key assets in many career fields.
Top 10 Historian Degree Jobs
Historian
- What They Do: Research, analyze, and interpret historical records; work for governments, research firms, or academic institutions.
- Salary: $63,000–$100,000 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Archivist
- What They Do: Organize and preserve historical documents and artifacts in museums, libraries, or government agencies.
- Salary: $52,000–$80,000+
Museum Curator
- What They Do: Manage collections, create exhibits, and lead educational programs in museums and galleries.
- Salary: $50,000–$85,000
History Teacher / Professor
- What They Do: Educate students in high schools or colleges on historical events, movements, and methodologies.
- Salary: $48,000–$120,000 (depending on level)
Policy Analyst
- What They Do: Use historical context to analyze laws, policies, and trends for government agencies or think tanks.
- Salary: $60,000–$100,000
Genealogist
- What They Do: Research family histories using historical records, often for clients or online ancestry platforms.
- Salary: $45,000–$70,000
Journalist or Editor
- What They Do: Cover stories with historical context or work as fact-checkers, editors, or writers for media outlets.
- Salary: $40,000–$90,000
Cultural Resource Manager
- What They Do: Ensure compliance with historic preservation laws in construction or land use planning.
- Salary: $55,000–$95,000
Legal Researcher or Paralegal
- What They Do: Apply research and documentation skills in legal contexts—especially useful for law school prep.
- Salary: $50,000–$85,000
Intelligence Analyst
- What They Do: Work with the government or military using historical data to assess geopolitical threats.
- Salary: $70,000–$110,000
Transferable Skills from a History Degree
Employers value history graduates for their strong foundation in:
- Research and analysis
- Professional writing and reporting
- Communication and public speaking
- Critical thinking
- Attention to detail
- Archival and data management
These skills are applicable in fields as varied as law, marketing, public relations, and business strategy.
Entry-Level Jobs for History Graduates
If you’re fresh out of school, look for entry-level roles like:
- Research Assistant
- Editorial Assistant
- Tour Guide or Museum Docent
- Administrative Coordinator in cultural institutions
- Teaching Assistant
- Library Technician
These positions help you build experience, earn certifications, and specialize over time.
How to Boost Your Career with a Historian Degree
Pursue Advanced Education
Graduate degrees (M.A., Ph.D.) unlock careers in academia, research institutions, and senior-level government roles.
Earn Certifications
Consider:
- Archival Certification
- Teaching Credentials
- Museum Studies Certificate
- Digital History or Data Visualization Tools
Internships & Volunteering
Experience at museums, libraries, or nonprofits can set your résumé apart.
Build a Digital Presence
Start a blog, publish articles, or create YouTube content on historical topics to demonstrate expertise and reach employers.
Industries That Hire History Graduates
- Education & Academia
- Media & Journalism
- Government & Public Policy
- Museums & Heritage
- Legal & Research Firms
- Nonprofits & NGOs
- Marketing & Content Creation
Conclusion
A historian degree is more versatile than most people realize. Whether you dream of working in a museum, teaching, or helping shape public policy, your training in critical thinking and analysis gives you an edge in today’s job market.
By exploring the wide range of historian degree jobs, pursuing relevant certifications, and gaining hands-on experience, you can build a rewarding career that combines passion with purpose.
FAQs
1. What jobs can I get with a history degree?
You can pursue careers as a historian, teacher, archivist, policy analyst, museum curator, journalist, and many more across both public and private sectors.
2. Do historian jobs pay well?
Yes, many historian-related roles offer competitive salaries. Mid- to senior-level positions in government, education, or analysis can exceed $80,000–$100,000 annually.
3. Is a history degree useful outside of education or museums?
Absolutely. Skills gained in a history degree—like research, analysis, and communication—are valuable in law, business, public policy, media, and nonprofit sectors.
4. Do I need a master’s or Ph.D. to get a historian job?
Some roles, especially in academia or research, require advanced degrees. However, many entry-level and mid-career opportunities are available with a bachelor’s degree and relevant experience.
5. How can I improve my job prospects with a history degree?
Boost your prospects by gaining internships, pursuing certifications, building a digital portfolio, and networking within your desired industry.
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