Job Opportunities for History Majors
COMMUNICATIONS, MEDIA INDUSTRY:
- Publishing companies
- Magazines
- Newspapers
- Film companies
- Television
- Radio
- Trade, technical, professional publishers
CORPORATIONS, MANUFACTURERS:
- Research departments
- Administration
- Public relations
- Human resources
BUSINESS:
- Insurance agencies
- Law offices
- Banks
- Financial institutions
TRANSPORTATION AND TRAVEL:
- Travel agencies
- Travel lines
- Tour agencies
ORGANIZATIONS:
- Museums
- Galleries
- Historical societies
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS:
- Secondary schools
- Junior colleges
- Four-year universities and colleges
CITIES AND COUNTIES:
- Libraries
- Chambers of commerce
- Personnel administration
- Welfare departments
- Cultural centers
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT:
- Legislative committee staffs
- National Archives
- Library of Congress
- Departments of Interior, Defense, and State
- National Park Service
- Smithsonian Institute
- NASA
- National Security Administration
- Bureau of Prisons
- Central Intelligence Agency
The following are examples of occupations that utilize the skills and knowledge developed by this major. Some may require additional specialized education or training beyond the bachelor's degree.
Biographer, Administrative Assistant, Management Trainee, Research Assistant, Claims Investigator, Special Agent, Bank Officier, Museum Registrar, Tour Guide, Correspondent, College Official, Archivist, Customs Inspector, Cultural Affairs Officer, Curator, Fundraiser, Information Specialist, Editor, Insurance Agent, Market Researcher, Lawyer, Librarian, Paralegal, Reporter, Newscaster, Employment Interviewer, Teacher/Professor, Social Worker, Art Appraiser, Cataloger.
A college major does not determine your career. Achievement of any college degree represents to employers the ability to learn, think critically, organize and present information. This combined with your particular collection of skills and experience, makes you qualified for a much wider range of positions.
The following written and human resources may be helpful in planning your career or further education.
- Telephone Directories
- The National Directory of Addresses and Telephone Numbers
- National Trade and Professional Associations of the United States
- Directories of State and Federal Government Agencies
- Peterson's Business and Management Jobs
- The Complete Guide to Public Employment-Krannich
- JobWeb.com: Career Development & Job Search Advice for New College Graduates
Also, don't forget academic departmental resources, past employers, and contacts known to friends, family, or social acquaintances.
Several factors influence employability in addition to the academic major. Knowledge of computer technology and applications can be very advantageous, as can a background in business, education, or law. Preparation in psychology, speech, art, or other humanities can enhance one's employability in media fields, including advertising and public relations. Additional coursework in political science, economics, statistical analysis, international relations. Additional coursework in political science, economics, statistical analysis, international relations or foreign language can only help one's preparedness, as can an internship, summer job, or volunteer position.
(Adapted from Whitman College handout)