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You might be stuck on the career options after graduation and worried about their growth in the coming years. Having a master’s in history opens doors to careers where you can inquire, explore, discover, research, and even impart historical knowledge.
Yet, if you’re still questioning “What can you do with a history master’s?” you’re in the right place. We’ve explored the ins and outs of this program to give you a deeper insight into the career opportunities, requirements, and specializations. So, let’s begin!
What Can You Do with a History Master’s?
Luckily, a history master’s program sets you up for a brighter future than a bachelor’s degree alone. For instance, it includes an in-depth thesis project showing future employers your strong technical abilities and diligence.
To simplify it, we have rounded up some possible career paths where a master’s in history can help you stand out. Metrics like annual income, minimum required education, and growth will further help you pick a career that aligns with your future goals.
Historian
- Median Annual Income: $86,335 a year
- Minimum Required Education: Bachelor’s for entry-level positions; master’s for more advanced designations.
- Growth: Projected to grow 3 percent from 2022 to 2032
Job Overview
Historians research, study, and interpret the past to deeply examine historical records to understand the present and predict the future. This helps them better grasp how human societies work and evolve over time.
As a historian, you may work in museums, archives, government agencies, research firms, or consulting agencies – dependently or independently.
Job Description
According to the BLS, you may perform the following tasks as a historian:
- Explore various sources such as historic artifacts, documents, manuscripts, and visual materials.
- Analyze and decipher historical events.
- Write reports, articles, and research papers on historical findings.
- Present your findings to the public.
Museum Curator
- Median Annual Income: Falls between $55,806 and $78,489
- Minimum Required Education: a master’s degree in history or any other discipline of the museum’s specialty
- Growth: Projected to grow 10 percent from 2022 to 2032
Job Overview
Museum Curators monitor the collection, storage, and display of artifacts with scientific or cultural significance. To be a successful curator, you need to possess a strong knowledge of art history and the ability to analyze various forms of art. From children to maritime museums, curators can realize their passion for preservation.
Additionally, the promising 10% growth rate and annual pay of up to $78,489 make it a rewarding career path for history enthusiasts.
Job Description
According to the BLS, the core responsibilities of a museum curator include:
- Clean and preserve ancient artifacts such as tools, coins, and statues
- Organize tours and workshops
- Work on special research projects to learn lessons from the past
- Coordinate with directing and supervising staff
Archivist
- Median Annual Income: $67,977 per year
- Minimum Required Education: Master’s degree
- Growth: Projected to grow 10 percent from 2022 to 2032
Job Overview
As true guardians of the historical legacy, Archivists are responsible for preserving key documents and records. They are repeatedly in search of new materials to enrich their archives and set policies for public access to these materials. Archivists most commonly work in museums and join hands with technicians for successful exhibitions.
While the qualifications to become an archivist mainly depend on your employer, a master’s degree in history can make you stand out as a strong candidate.
Job Description
According to the BLS, Archivists typically carry out the following roles:
- Authenticate and appraise historical documents and materials .
- Maintain and protect documents and objects for their long-term preservation.
- Monitor the safety of records by creating both film and digital copies.
- Supervise staff to assist in arranging, displaying, and caring for collections.
Lawyer
- Median Annual Income: $103,341 per year
- Minimum Required Education: Bachelor’s degree and a JD.
- Growth: Projected to grow 8 percent from 2022 to 2032
Job Overview
Lawyers, known as attorneys, mainly manage their clients’ image in the courtroom and battle legal cases on their behalf. They serve dual roles as advisors and advocates on disputes between individuals or organizations. A skilled lawyer must know current legal principles and understand why they exist and where they originate.
The mean annual income of $103,341 indicates that a lawyer is a great profession to step into if you have a history master.
Job Description
According to the BLS, the basic duties of a lawyer include:
- Act as legal representatives for clients involved in civil or criminal cases and legal affairs
- Carry out legal communication with judges, clients, and colleagues
- Prepare critical legal paperwork like lawsuits, contracts, and wills
- Present facts and findings in court to support cases
History Professor
- Median Annual Income: $117,283 per year
- Minimum Required Education: Doctoral degree or master’s degree.
- Growth: growth rate is 5% from 2018-2028
Job Overview
If you love teaching and wish to help students interpret their past to see how it shapes the future, you’re destined to be a History Professor. History Professors share their history insights at college or university levels. Nonetheless, various factors like the college’s location, degree level, and experience may determine your salary.
The good news is that there’s a growing demand for History Professors.
Job Description
A history professor undertakes the following tasks:
- Prepare history lesson plans and annual curriculums
- Enlighten students about key events from the past and the lessons learned
- Interpret sources like books, private documents, photographs, film, and other cultural artifacts
- Conduct research, fieldwork, investigations, and write research reports
Natural Sciences Manager
- Median Annual Income: $74,230 a year
- Minimum Required Education: Bachelor’s degree in natural science or related field
- Growth: Projected to grow 5 percent from 2022 to 2032
Job Overview
Natural Sciences Managers look after technicians and scientists performing laboratory tests. While a master’s in history may not be the prerequisite, it offers an edge when applying for a Natural Sciences Manager job. For instance, in roles where research, analytical, and critical thinking skills are required, an advanced degree in history stands out.
On top of that, the 5% growth projection makes it a lucrative opportunity after completion of your history master’s.
Job Description
According to the BLS, as a natural sciences manager, the individual needs to perform the following key duties:
- Recruit, manage, and assess scientists, technicians, and team members
- Maintain laboratory inventory, equipment, and supplies
- Offer technical support and guidance to research staff and technicians
- Communicate project proposals, research results, and project updates
Admission Requirements for a History Master’s Program
While the admission requirements for the program vary at each university, most institutes require the following documents:
- A Statement of Purpose highlighting your academic achievements and describing “why” you want to apply to the program.
- Official Transcripts as proof of the previous universities or colleges you have attended
- Resume demonstrating relevant work experience, research projects, and academic achievements.
- Letter of Recommendation from former professors to highlight your character, work ethic, and potential for success in the graduate program.
- GRE or GMAT scores (depending on the university requirements)
- Writing samples (depending on the university requirements)
Note: Make sure to carefully review the application requirements and instructions for each program to provide necessary documents timely.
Most Popular History Specializations
Once you’re at the graduate level, you can choose from a myriad of history specializations. Although specializations may depend on the institute, you can pick one that best aligns with your career goals and aspirations.
To put this into perspective, let’s say you aim to teach high school courses on ancient civilizations like the Ottoman Empire and the Middle East. In this case, you may want to specialize in Ottoman and Middle Eastern History.
Some popular history specializations include:
- European History
- American History
- Teaching History
- Medieval Europe History
- Women’s and Gender History
Related Questions
Is a Master’s Degree in History Worth It?
A master’s in history provides a deep understanding of the past, providing a competitive edge in the job market. Most of the jobs after graduation in history have positive growth trends over the next decade. However, it’s worth noting that the tuition for this advanced-level degree comes with a high price tag.
How Difficult Is It to Get a History Master’s Degree?
Earning a master’s degree in history may be hard for some individuals due to its academic rigor and demanding commitments. With more expectations and an increased workload, it’s relatively tricky. However, it is achievable with time, effort, and dedication.
What Are the Different Types of History Master’s Degrees?
Typically, there are two types of history master’s degrees: a master’s of Arts in History and a master’s of Science in History. The former suits future historians and curators, while the latter works well for prospective policy analysts and consultants.
Conclusion
Now that you know the perks of enrolling in a history master’s degree, it’s time to begin exploring your career aspirations. With more jobs, career progression, specialized expertise, and more confidence, the degree brings more benefits than just academics. For the best results, pick a specialization that aligns with your goals.
