Choosing this major will require you to decide whether you want to pursue a career directly related to the field of history, or whether you are planning to apply the liberal arts skills gained by a history major to another career area. The undergraduate study of history does not prepare you for one particular type of job, but can provide you with the skills necessary to enter a variety of career fields. Employers of all types are seeking individuals with the ability to think critically and analytically, to research effectively, and to communicate results in writing, all skills of history majors. If you decide to pursue a job directly related to history, chances are that you will need to pursue an advanced degree. Some of the more common career choices of those who want to work directly in the field of history include professional historians and archivists.
Professional historians describe and analyze events of the past through writing and research.
They may work in the public or private sector, as well as in academic settings. Public historians work in government agencies, businesses, contract history firms, museums, archives, libraries, and historic sites. They use their skills in history to serve some type of public audience. Graduate school is generally required to gain employment in this area. Archivists evaluate and edit permanent records and historical documents.