If you’re a History major applying for internships or jobs, you’re probably asking yourself, “What can I do with a History degree?”
Fortunately for you, there is a broad range of careers well suited for History majors. Landing the perfect job means finding a role where you can utilize your research and critical thinking skills. If you're unsure which role might suit you best, you can trying your hand an internship in of these career fields to ger a taster of your career to come.
Here are some top fields for History majors that aren't the traditional "become a history teacher!":
To answer the question, “What can I do with a History degree?” it is sometimes best to look at the more obvious answers. If you’ve always loved sharing history with others, the best career for you might be in a museum or a library. Archiving and curating exhibitions will allow you to use your research abilities and organizational skills. You’ll spend your days making history more accessible and pursuing your passion.
Your history degree probably focused on a specific region of the world. Put your specialty to work for a government agency or international organization. As an Intelligence Specialist, you will be conducting research, providing insight, and developing intelligence assessments. Start with an internship in either Government and Politics, NGOs and Nonprofits or Public Relations to see how your degree and historical interest can serve you in your future career.
Because of the intensity of a History degree, you are well prepared to pursue a career in law. You’ve spent your undergrad writing essays, analyzing documents, and formulating arguments. Take those critical thinking and analysis skills and head to Law school, or look for a role in the legal sector. Start with a legal internship in either an NGO or Nonprofit, or in Law.
Many young professionals answer the question, “What can I do with a History degree?” by turning to the world of media. With a History degree under your belt, you are in an excellent position to help others understand both current and past events. Take your History degree into the journalism sector, working as a reporter or a documentarian.
Another job to get with a history degree is in policy analysis, thanks to your top-notch research skills. The primary role of a policy analyst is to conduct research on societies. This is something very familiar to History majors, and you’ll therefore thrive in a career like this. You’ll gather data, analyze societal issues and trends, and propose solutions. Pursue a career in a think tank, a non-profit, or even in the private sector. Start out strong with an internship in either Consulting or NGOs and Nonprofits to improve your skills and strengthen your resume.
Many History majors learn a second language to gain a better understanding of the societies you’re studying. Being bilingual is a highly sought after skill. If you are bilingual with a love of foreign cultures and societies, consider working as a translator or language specialist. Start out with an internship in either Languages and Translation or NGOs and nonprofits to put your language skills to use.