Introduction
A common misconception about history degrees is that they don’t lead to employment. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. A history degree provides an in-depth understanding of the past and the skills to analyze and communicate information effectively. In this article, we will explore the various options available to history graduates, including career paths, skill development, niche specializations, graduate school opportunities, entrepreneurship, social advocacy and media and communication roles.
Career Opportunities
History majors can pursue several career paths, including research, teaching, writing and advocacy. History graduates can work in museums, archives, libraries, government agencies, law firms, non-profits and private businesses. Many history majors carve out their own unique career paths, leveraging their critical thinking, research, and analytical skills to pursue careers in fields that may not have been directly related to their degree.
For instance, graduates can go into management consulting, journalism, public relations or advertising. In addition, history majors often make great political candidates or assets to political campaign teams due to their excellent communication and analytical skills.
Real-world examples of history graduates succeeding in various fields include Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, documentary filmmaker Ken Burns, and journalist Anderson Cooper, to name a few.
Skill Development
While pursuing a history degree, students acquire a variety of valuable skills, including:
- Research and analysis skills
- Critical thinking skills
- Communication and writing skills
- Attention to detail
- Problem-solving skills
These skills are highly transferable, making history graduates well-suited to a wide range of industries. For example, a history major with strong critical thinking skills and proficiency in research and analysis can excel in business consulting. Those with excellent communication skills can thrive in public relations and advertising. Attention to detail and problem-solving skills can be invaluable in any industry.
Niche Specializations
Although history is a broad field, graduates can specialize in areas like museum curator or archivist, historian, historical interpreter or librarian. These roles require strong research and organizational skills, a deep understanding of historical events and artifacts, and often a strong interest in preserving history for future generations. A niche specialization allows graduates to develop a unique skill set, and work in an area that they are particularly passionate about.
Graduate School
A history degree opens up further education options, including graduate programs in history, law, and political science. For graduates looking to build a career in fields like law, politics, or academia, a graduate degree can provide a competitive edge and enhance job prospects. Advanced degrees provide the opportunity to specialize in a particular area, conduct further research, and develop new skills that can be applied to a wide range of careers.
Entrepreneurship
While many history majors pursue traditional careers, entrepreneurship is an option for those who wish to start their own businesses. Many successful entrepreneurs use research and critical thinking skills to identify unique business opportunities. For example, graduates can start their own research or consulting businesses, leveraging their analytical abilities and experience with primary sources such as historical data, resources, and creative ventures.
Social Advocacy
History graduates can use their unique understanding of the past to help advocate for change in the present. Social advocacy work often involves researching and analyzing how past events have impacted modern-day societies. In turn, graduates can use their findings to develop meaningful change in social justice and equality initiatives. By using their skills, history graduates can affect a positive change in communities that are marginalized and social justice issues that require historical expertise.
Media and Communications
Journalism and media require excellent writing and research skills, which history grads possess. Research skills are an incredibly valuable asset for journalists, as they are responsible for investigating and reporting news stories. Excellent writing and communication skills are important for crafting compelling narratives that make readers want to engage with content. Some of the most prominent media professionals that have history degrees include Diane Sawyer and Tom Brokaw.
Conclusion
History graduates are well-equipped with the skills and knowledge that can be valuable in several industries. From education to social advocacy to entrepreneurship, the skill sets and perspectives that arise with a history degree can be applied to a wide range of fields. History graduates have the opportunity to explore exciting careers, apply their critical thinking and analytical abilities in a meaningful way, and make an impact on society. Hence, history graduates should be encouraged to explore and leverage their skills to unleash their full potential.