Historians usually specialize in a specific country or geographic region, in a particular time period, or in a particular field, such as social, intellectual, political, or diplomatic history. Genealogists trace family histories. Biographers collect detailed information on individuals. Other historians help study and preserve archival materials, artifacts, and historic sites and buildings. They use standard techniques to locate, evaluate, and interpret historical evidence.
Many historians teach in colleges and universities.
Graduates with a master's degree qualify for teaching positions in junior colleges. The bachelor's degree provides a suitable background for many different kinds of entry level jobs, such as research assistant, administrative aide, or management trainee. No special licensing or certification is required for historians.