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Career pathways and opportunities for History majors
Considering a degree in History? Here, you’ll find information on common career paths, types of employers that hire in the field, and the in-demand skills you’ll develop as a History major. You’ll also learn steps you can take as a History student to maximize career opportunities.
The study of History prepares you for jobs that involve people skills and an understanding of cultural differences.
a broad range of historical knowledge and understanding, including a sense of development over time, and an appreciation of the culture and attitudes of societies
the significance and utility of a large body of material, including evidence from a variety of sources and the interpretations of other historians, and how to critically evaluate them
The historical forces that have influenced groups, societies, and nations in the past, as an essential framework for addressing and resolving contemporary challenges
Organize data and analyze and interpret its authenticity and relative significance.
Conduct historical research as a basis for the identification, conservation, and reconstruction of historic places and materials.
Present historical accounts of individuals or social, ethnic, political, economic, or geographic groupings.
Trace historical development in a particular field, such as social, cultural, political, or diplomatic history.
Articulate historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
Gather relevant historical data and evidence from sources (e.g. archives, court records, diaries, news files, photographs, books, pamphlets, and periodicals) to inform and support well-written, clearly expressed, coherently organized arguments.
Local and state government: Policy, planning, administration
Federal government: research, intelligence, foreign service
Politics: campaigns, advising, advocacy, lobbying
Sales
Law
Education
To best prepare to enter or advance in your career field of interest, prioritize gaining specialized knowledge and experiences most valued by employers. This might include internships, on- or off-campus jobs, research experience, a minor, or a certification.
Pursue research experience by working on faculty projects through independent study classes, as a student employee, or through other departmental programs.
Learn about grant writing, budgeting, and legal issues surrounding archival and other historical research.
Join professional associations to gain exposure to the field and expand your network.