Degrees in History Careers: What You Can Do With a History Degree

A degree in history is more than just studying the past—it’s about critical thinking, research, analysis, and storytelling. But a common question is: What careers can you pursue with a history degree?

Whether you’re a student considering a major or a graduate ready to enter the workforce, this article explores the top degrees in history careers, potential earnings, required skills, and how to tailor your path for long-term success.

What Is a Degree in History?

A history degree involves the academic study of past events, cultures, societies, and significant global developments. Students often learn:

Research and archival skills
Critical analysis of sources
Writing and communication
Historical interpretation and argumentation
Global and cultural awareness

History degrees are offered at the Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. levels, and each opens doors to unique career opportunities.

Top Careers for Degrees in History

Historian

Description: Researches, analyzes, and interprets historical data and archives.
Industries: Museums, government agencies, historical societies, think tanks.
Education: Typically requires a Master’s or Ph.D.
Average Salary: $64,540/year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Archivist

Description: Preserves and organizes historical documents and records.
Industries: Libraries, museums, universities, corporations.
Education: Master’s in archival studies or library science are often preferred.
Average Salary: $61,700/year

Museum Curator

Description: Manages collections of historical artifacts and creates exhibits.
Industries: Museums, cultural institutions, nonprofits.
Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s in museum studies or related fields.
Average Salary: $58,000/year

History Teacher or Professor

Description: Educates students on history topics at various levels.
Industries: Public schools, colleges, universities.
Education: Bachelor’s + teaching credential (for K-12), Master’s or Ph.D. for college.
Average Salary: $62,000–$80,000/year

Political Analyst or Policy Researcher

Description: Uses historical context to interpret current political issues.
Industries: Government agencies, research firms, nonprofits.
Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s in history, political science, or international relations.
Average Salary: $70,000–$95,000/year

Lawyer or Legal Assistant

Description: Many law schools value history graduates for their reading, writing, and analytical skills.
Industries: Legal firms, public defenders, corporate law.
Education: Requires JD (for lawyers); Bachelor’s + certificate (for paralegals).
Average Salary: $56,000 (paralegal) to $127,990 (lawyer)

Journalist or Editor

Description: Researching and writing news articles or editing content with historical insight.
Industries: Publishing, online media, broadcasting.
Education: Bachelor’s in history, journalism, or English.
Average Salary: $55,000–$75,000/year

Government or Civil Service

Description: Many history grads find fulfilling roles in local, state, or federal government.
Industries: Policy development, national parks, public archives.
Average Salary: Varies by role and location

Genealogist

Description: Researches family histories and ancestral records.
Industries: Independent consultancy, online genealogy companies.
Education: Bachelor’s + certification (optional)
Average Salary: $45,000–$70,000/year

Content Creator or Historical Consultant

Description: Writes books, produces media content, or consults for films and TV.
Industries: Publishing, media, gaming, and entertainment.
Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s in history or related field.
Average Salary: Project-based or freelance; can range widely

Skills You Gain With a History Degree

Employers value history majors for their:

Research and data analysis
Written and verbal communication
Argumentation and critical thinking
Understanding of cultural and political contexts
Problem-solving and interpretation skills

These skills are applicable across a wide range of careers—even those not directly tied to history.

Job Outlook for History Majors

While the job market for professional historians is competitive, many history graduates excel in education, public service, law, communications, and research roles. According to the BLS, historian employment is expected to grow 3–5% over the next decade.

Fields with higher growth potential include:

Digital content & historical media
Education technology
Policy analysis
Nonprofit sector
Museum technology and curation

How to Maximize Career Options With a History Degree

Specialize Early

Focus on a niche—such as military history, political history, or public history—to build expertise.

Get Internships

Work in museums, archives, libraries, or government agencies to gain hands-on experience.

Consider Double Majoring or Minoring

Pair your history degree with subjects like political science, education, business, or communications for broader appeal.

Build a Portfolio

Showcase writing samples, research papers, and published work to highlight your skills.

Pursue Graduate Studies

Many roles, especially in academia or specialized research, require a Master’s or Ph.D.

Related Degrees and Career Alternatives

If you love history but want a flexible career path, consider degrees in:

Political Science
Sociology
International Relations
Library Science
Public Administration

These fields offer similar skill sets with broader or more specialized job markets.

Conclusion

A degree in history opens the door to diverse and meaningful careers in education, research, government, law, media, and beyond. While it may not have a direct path like engineering or medicine, its value lies in transferable skills, critical thinking, and deep cultural insight.

With the right strategy—such as internships, specialization, and further study—you can turn your history degree into a rewarding and impactful career.

FAQs

1. Is a history degree worth it?

Yes, if you enjoy research, critical thinking, and want a flexible career. Many employers value the skills history majors bring to the table.

2. What are the highest-paying jobs with a history degree?

Roles like lawyer, political analyst, professor, or museum director can be lucrative, especially with experience or advanced degrees.

3. Can I work in tech or business with a history degree?

Absolutely. Many history grads move into project management, marketing, UX writing, and even data analysis with additional certifications.

4. Do I need a master’s to get a job with a history degree?

Not necessarily. Many entry-level jobs are available with a Bachelor’s in History, though teaching, research, and archival roles often prefer advanced degrees.