You’ve studied long and hard. You’ve learned more about ancient civilizations and modern times than most people can hope to digest. You are curious about learning as much as you can about every aspect of an issue. You’ve written extensively about the impact historical events have had in shaping the future – and enjoyed every minute of it. You’ve earned your degree in history. Now what?
Make a sustainable career out of it. Here’s how.
According to the American Historical Association, there are a multitude of careers to consider with a history degree. Many, I’m sure, you’ve never thought of. Now, there are the predictable professions of historian, history teacher or professor, archivist, analyst, journalist or researcher. But have you ever considered being an advertising executive, intelligence agent, personnel manager, or public relations professional? Just think, Presidents Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin D. Roosevelt and George W. Bush were history majors. Basketball legend Kareem Abdul-Jabar and Olympian Jackie Joyner-Kersee were history majors. Even entertainers like legendary actress Katharine Hepburn, comedians Conan O’Brien and Steve Carell, and musician Jimmy Buffett were history majors. Who knew that studying history would take them so far?
Think about the skills you have obtained while studying for your degree. You have certainly honed your writing skills as a college student and can bring those abilities to any job, especially those that require polished writers. And how could anyone get a history degree without being able to do research? This skill is vital to any job and can help you become the “go to†person with regard to information gathering. You’ve probably also honed your ability to analyze information and have devised different ways that pertinent information can impact a project. These are all important skills to have in the workplace.
Dr. Jon Carleton is Department Chair for History and Military Studies at American Public University System (APUS) and a Fellow of the World Association of International Studies. He says that students graduating with a degree in American History have a great deal of flexibility in their career path, especially if they want to teach. “Most of my students do want to teach,†says Carleton. “I ask them their own historical background and advise them to use that expertise to their advantage.â€
Depending on where that graduate is located around the county, Carleton advises them to capitalize on the history in that area when interviewing for a job. The student may be able to teach American History, but has a special interest in the Civil War or the American Revolution. He says to provide something unique to the potential employer to give yourself a competitive advantage.
Stay active in organizations related to your interests, like historical societies and national history organizations. Networking with fellow history buffs is sure to garner leads to exciting jobs in your chosen field.
Dr. Fred Stielow, Dean of Libraries for APUS, stresses the opportunities for Graduate students in Public History.
“Students with military experience and security clearances have a leg up for government jobs, said Stielow. “And a significant number of military history and site interpreter jobs are opening up for students studying Public History. That also includes careers that require archiving skills – working with the raw documents and images of history.”
The internet, as you know, lists many resources on history. Gatewaytohistory.org, for example, lists a number of different categories to search for history resources, including non-profit and private organizations, the federal government, publishers and museums and historical sites. All are great ways to search for opportunities related to history.
So, what can you do with a history degree? What can’t you do? Think broadly about your career options and highlight your newly acquired skills. The perfect job is right around the corner.
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