In this article, you'll find the best high paying jobs for history majors. While many assume that a history degree limits one to a teaching profession, the reality is far from that. The skills acquired by history majors, such as research, critical thinking, and communication, make them valuable assets in various industries. Unearth the potential of your degree and explore avenues you might not have considered before. Listed below are 11 of the best high paying jobs for history majors.
- Museum Curator
- Historic Preservationist
- Policy Analyst
- Archivist
- Public Relations Specialist
- Intelligence Analyst
- Legal Consultant
- Documentary Filmmaker
- Corporate Historian
- Historical Consultant for Media
- Political Advisor
Table of Contents
- 1. Museum Curator
- 2. Historic Preservationist
- 3. Policy Analyst
- 4. Archivist
- 5. Public Relations Specialist
- 6. Intelligence Analyst
- 7. Legal Consultant
- 8. Documentary Filmmaker
- 9. Corporate Historian
- 10. Historical Consultant for Media
- 11. Political Advisor
- Can a history major work outside academia?
- What are the core skills of a history major?
- Can a history major lead to a lucrative career?
1. Museum Curator
Museum curators are at the heart of preserving and showcasing historical artifacts, artworks, and more. They not only select and interpret objects but also design exhibitions and educational programs.
Skills Required
- Knowledge of preservation techniques
- Research skills
- Organizational abilities
- Public speaking
- Budgeting
Salary Range
Between $45,000 - $80,000 annually.
2. Historic Preservationist
Historic preservationists ensure that historical sites and structures are conserved and maintained for future generations. They work closely with architects and planners to retain the authenticity of these landmarks.
Skills Required
- Architectural knowledge
- Research abilities
- Negotiation skills
- Fundraising
Salary Range
Between $40,000 - $75,000 annually.
3. Policy Analyst
Many history majors enter the world of politics and public policy. As policy analysts, they utilize their skills to research, analyze, and offer recommendations on various societal issues.
Skills Required
- Research expertise
- Critical thinking
- Communication
- Statistical analysis
Salary Range
Between $50,000 - $90,000 annually.
4. Archivist
Archivists are responsible for preserving documents, photos, maps, and other materials of historical significance. They classify, catalog, and maintain these collections, ensuring accessibility.
Skills Required
- Detail-oriented
- Research abilities
- Knowledge of preservation methods
- Digital archiving
Salary Range
Between $40,000 - $70,000 annually.
5. Public Relations Specialist
A background in history provides a unique perspective for PR specialists. They manage a company's image, handle press releases, and engage with media.
Skills Required
- Communication
- Creativity
- Crisis management
- Writing skills
Salary Range
Between $45,000 - $100,000 annually.
6. Intelligence Analyst
Those with a background in history can find lucrative roles in the world of intelligence. Intelligence analysts gather, evaluate, and interpret top-secret information to guide security and defense policies.
Skills Required
- Deep research capabilities
- Analytical thinking
- Information synthesis
- Security awareness
- Cultural understanding
Salary Range
Between $60,000 - $120,000 annually.
7. Legal Consultant
History majors, with additional legal training, can provide specialized advice on cases that revolve around historical contexts, land disputes, or artifacts.
Skills Required
- Legal research
- Analytical reasoning
- Strong communication
- Attention to detail
- Historical knowledge
Salary Range
Between $50,000 - $150,000 annually, depending on the level of legal expertise.
8. Documentary Filmmaker
History enthusiasts can bring the past to life by crafting documentaries. This combines storytelling with factual representation to educate and entertain.
Skills Required
- Storyboarding
- Research
- Videography
- Interviewing skills
- Editing and post-production
Salary Range
Between $40,000 - $100,000 annually, with potential for more based on film success.
9. Corporate Historian
Large corporations often hire historians to document their company's legacy, achievements, and transformations over the years.
Skills Required
- Corporate research
- Archiving
- Storytelling
- Analytical skills
- Presentation abilities
Salary Range
Between $55,000 - $85,000 annually.
10. Historical Consultant for Media
History majors can work with film, TV, or theater producers to ensure historical accuracy in their productions.
Skills Required
- Deep knowledge of various historical periods
- Research proficiency
- Collaborative mindset
- Attention to detail
- Communication skills
Salary Range
Between $50,000 - $95,000 annually.
11. Political Advisor
A solid grasp of history can be an asset for political advisors who guide politicians based on historical precedents and potential future implications.
Skills Required
- Political understanding
- Research abilities
- Analytical thinking
- Strong communication
- Crisis management
Salary Range
Between $55,000 - $110,000 annually.
Can a history major work outside academia?
Yes, a history major can work in various fields outside academia. From policy analysis to public relations, the analytical and research skills acquired can be applied in diverse sectors.
Is a history degree only about past events?
No, a history degree isn't just about past events. It equips students with critical thinking, research, and communication skills, which are invaluable in many professions.
What are the core skills of a history major?
History majors acquire skills like research, critical thinking, writing, and more, which can be applied across various industries and roles.
Do employers value history degrees?
Yes, employers value history degrees due to the comprehensive skill set that graduates bring, including analytical thinking, detailed research abilities, and strong communication.
Can a history major lead to a lucrative career?
Yes, a history major can lead to high-paying jobs in sectors like policy analysis, public relations, and legal consultancy, among others.
Are there opportunities for history majors in the tech industry?
Yes, history majors can find roles in the tech industry, especially in areas like content creation, research, and even user experience design, where a deep understanding of human evolution and behavior can be beneficial.
