Is a History Degree Right for Me?

This article includes an overview of history degrees, reasons to consider the major, and some questions to ask yourself before deciding if it's right for you.

If you are interested in learning about different time periods and key historical figures and events, then a history degree could be the right choice for you. A history degree provides a thorough understanding of the past and its connection to current events.

Studying history gives you valuable insights, a specialized knowledge of history, and practical career skills. Because the coursework in a history degree program provides an understanding of global society throughout the past, along with the present and future, it is a degree that leads to a wide range of career paths in various industries.

What Is a History Degree?

A history degree, often offered as a Bachelor of Arts in history, involves reading, research, and writing to provide an understanding of diverse cultures and societies throughout different historical time periods.

By looking through different thematic lenses, such as political, social, economic, and cultural history, college students learn to find primary sources, analyze and interpret research findings, and form an understanding of how events occurred. History degrees emphasize critical thinking and research skills to strengthen students' overall understanding and perspective of history.

What Does a History Major Study?

A history major studies an array of historical topics ranging from ancient civilizations to modern history. Coursework focuses on different historical periods, civilizations, and geographic regions. History students study key figures and fundamental historical events that shaped the modern world through political, social, and cultural history lenses. They also learn how to evaluate primary sources to draw conclusions and make connections between the past and present.

Why You Should Consider a Degree in History

When considering a degree in history, it is important to know the many benefits of a history education. While a history degree provides knowledge of important historical topics, from ancient times to early America, it also improves students' proficiency in research skills and effective written and verbal communication so they can excel in many different industries.

Better Understand Diversity

By studying history, you can appreciate the diverse experiences and cultures that humans are a part of. Having a more open-minded perspective of the world is beneficial, contributing unique insights while working in various fields, even those that aren't directly related to the history field.

Improve Communication Skills

Throughout their degree programs, history majors learn to communicate in ways that effectively articulate their ideas and improve their ability to explain historical concepts. Knowing how to gather complex information, form conclusions, and share insight requires an ability to effectively communicate with others. Communication skills, both written and verbal, are valuable to have in most careers, especially ones that involve research, writing, and teaching.

Continuous Learning

A history degree emphasizes research and critical thinking about current events in relation to historical ones. Graduates are encouraged to keep learning and remain knowledgeable about current events. Academic careers involve continuous learning to uncover new evidence and strengthen understanding of research topics.

Strengthen Analytical Skills

Pursuing a degree in history allows you to strengthen your analytical skills by examining and analyzing historical evidence. Analytical skills are required to make connections between historical events and modern events.

Gain Specialized Expertise

Most history degrees provide an option to add a concentration or specialization to gain a more in-depth understanding of an area that interests you. This can be a focus on geographic history, such as European, American, or Middle Eastern history, or other historical topics, like military history and women and gender history.

Versatile Career Path

History degrees provide college students with a flexible career path. There are many jobs to pursue in areas like journalism, law, and politics. Some grads choose an education career path where they teach in schools and higher education, while others prefer the academic route.

Job Opportunities for History Degree Majors

History majors can utilize their education and expertise in many roles besides becoming professional historians. There is a wide array of entry-level career options for history majors, where graduates can apply their versatile skills and unique perspectives.

Historical insights are crucial in many in-demand areas. Graduates can utilize their degrees in working roles in industries like political science, public service, healthcare, and nonprofits.

Career opportunities involve:

History Degree: Questions To Ask Yourself

Earning a history degree can be beneficial for your education and career. Although it provides a well-rounded understanding of history, it is important to make sure a history major aligns with your goals and interests. These questions can help you make a more informed decision about whether or not a history degree is right for you.

What Practical Career Skills Will I Learn in a History Degree?

During a history program, students learn skills that are necessary for many careers. Critical thinking skills are crucial for effectively analyzing and problem-solving. History graduates can also use their strategic thinking and writing skills in various careers to evaluate information and form opinions.

What Is the Job Market Like for History Major Graduates?

Since history majors strengthen many practical and interpersonal skills during history degree programs, there are a variety of careers that utilize their expertise. With their comprehensive study of history, graduates can use valuable insight and new perspectives in various industries.

How Will I Advance My Education After a Bachelor's Degree

Pursuing graduate school for a master's degree or doctorate can give you a more specialized area of focus and equip you with a wider range of knowledge. A master's degree provides more advanced history courses and is a credential that can provide you with more advanced roles and access to a higher-than-average salary. Some history graduates also choose to pursue law school or other degrees that complement history, such as social science.

Should I Double Major With a History Degree?

Many history degree programs provide college students with the opportunity to double major. Some common double majors are political science and international relations or liberal arts majors like philosophy, English literature, or art. Taking electives that interest you when you begin your program can give you a better idea of what double major is best for you.