What Can You Do With a History Degree?

You might be wondering, “What can I do with a history degree?” In this blog, we’re going to explore the potential paths a history degree can lead you down, shedding light on the top history schools and how hard getting the degree would be.

What Is a History Degree?

When you major in history, you embark on a quest to understand the past. You’ll delve into the annals of time, exploring the lives of ancient civilizations, the impact of key historical events, and the evolution of societies.

Skills Gained

Your studies will involve conducting research, analyzing primary sources, and crafting compelling narratives that bring history to life. It’s not just about memorizing dates; it’s about making sense of the human experience throughout the ages.

Career Paths

A history degree isn’t just about becoming a history teacher (though that’s one option). It can open doors to careers in different fields including:

Historian

Historians are the detectives of the past. They meticulously sift through archives, documents, and artifacts, unearthing hidden stories and forgotten events. They bring history to life through their research and often share their findings through publications or presentations.

Archivist

Archivists are the caretakers of history’s treasures. They manage vast collections of historical records, ensuring their preservation and accessibility. Whether it’s a collection of letters from a bygone era or government documents, archivists play a critical role in organizing, preserving, and making these records available to researchers, scholars, and the public.

Museum Curator

Museum curators are the creative minds behind captivating exhibitions. They select and care for historical objects and artwork, creating compelling displays that educate and inspire. Whether in art museums, history museums, or cultural institutions, curators breathe life into history, allowing people to experience it up close.

Teacher

History teachers at the K-12 level educate young minds about the world’s past. Meanwhile, history professors at colleges and universities shape the future historians, researchers, and scholars by providing in-depth knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Librarian

Librarians are often unsung heroes, helping individuals access the wealth of historical information housed within libraries. They guide patrons in their research, help them locate historical documents, and preserve rare texts and records for future generations.

Journalist

History graduates often make fantastic journalists. Their research and writing skills allow them to investigate stories, write articles, and cover events, including those with historical significance. As journalists, they have the power to inform the public and keep history alive through storytelling.

Writer

Some history enthusiasts turn their passion into a writing career. They pen historical novels, non-fiction books, or articles that transport readers to different eras. These writers have the gift of turning facts and events into captivating narratives, bridging the gap between the past and the present.

Lawyer

The skills gained in a history degree, like critical thinking and research, are highly applicable to the legal field. Many history graduates go on to study at law school and become lawyers, where they use their analytical abilities to advocate for their clients.

Conclusion

A history degree isn’t just about memorizing dates; it’s about making sense of the human experience throughout the ages. It can open doors to various career paths, from historian to journalist, and from lawyer to writer. The journey might have its challenges, but a history degree can lead you to a world of opportunities where your passion for the past becomes a powerful asset in the present.