Historians study past human conduct and activities to help people understand the events of today and the possible trends of the future. By studying written records, documents, and spoken recollections of events, historians can put together the known elements of a period of history. What they learn can offer insight into the ways individuals and groups make decisions, use power, or adapt to change. Their research and conclusions help leaders in education, industry, business, and government deal with social and economic issues.
Most historians have a Ph.D. degree.
The doctoral degree in history is essential for those who plan to become college teachers, administratiors, or researchers. People with a bachelor s degree or master s degree, however, may find work in federal or state agencies. Advancement without further education and without publications is unlikely. Employment in this field will probably show modest growth in the next ten years as older faculty members retire. Research directors, research associates, anthropologists, archaeologists, archivists, directors of state historical societies, ethnologists, genealogists, research assistants.