Jobs & Careers
Where history can take you
Do you think history is just about memorising dates from dusty old books? Think again. History is one of the most versatile subjects you can study and could help you to build a toolkit of skills that employers across every industry will value. From detective work to storytelling, critical thinking to cultural understanding, history graduates are shaping our world in ways you might never have imagined.
History isn't just about the past, it's about understanding how the world works, how people think, and how to navigate complex issues and thinking with confidence. Ready to discover where history can take you? It could be your secret weapon for career success.
The superpowers history gives you
When you study history, you're not just learning facts; you're developing a remarkable set of transferrable skills that make you incredibly valuable in today's job market.
Critical thinking and analysis
History teaches you to examine sources, weigh evidence, make connections, and spot bias from a mile away. You'll learn to ask all the right questions: Who wrote this? Why? Does this make sense? Is this true? What's missing from this story? These skills are pure gold, but particularly now in our age of information overload and fake news.
Research mastery
Historians are expert detectives, tracking down clues across libraries, archives, and databases. You'll master the art of finding reliable information quickly and efficiently, which is invaluable whether you're preparing a business report or investigating a news story.
Communication excellence
As a history student you'll become a brilliant storyteller who can take complex ideas and make them engaging and accessible. You'll learn to write persuasively, present confidently, and adapt your communication style for different audiences, from academic papers to social media posts.
Cultural intelligence
Understanding different time periods and societies makes you exceptionally good at working with diverse groups of people. You'll develop empathy, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to see situations from multiple perspectives.
Problem-solving prowess
Historical events are like giant, messy case studies filled with competing interests, unintended consequences, and complex causes. Studying them teaches you to navigate ambiguity, think systemically, and approach problems from multiple angles.
Where history can take you
Have you ever wondered why certain news stories trend whilst others disappear, how successful companies build their brands, or why some political campaigns succeed whilst others fail spectacularly? The answers often lie in history - understanding patterns, precedents, and the deeper currents that shape human behaviour.
If you're considering studying history at high school, you'll be opening doors to an incredible range of career possibilities that extend far beyond what you might imagine. Let's take a look at some of the role history could help you to succeed:
Media and communications
Your storytelling skills and ability to research complex topics make you perfect for a career in journalism, content creation, or public relations. History graduates often become:
Journalists covering everything from politics to business
Documentary makers bringing fascinating stories to life
Content strategists helping brands tell their stories
Social media managers creating engaging historical content
Business and finance
The analytical and research skills you develop studying history are highly prized in the business world. Many history graduates thrive as:
Management consultants solving complex business problems
Investment analysts researching companies and market trends
Project managers coordinating complex initiatives
Business development specialists identifying new opportunities
Government and policy
Your understanding of how societies work and change makes you valuable in shaping public policy and governance. You could become a:
Civil servant developing and implementing government policy
Political advisor providing strategic guidance to decision-makers
Diplomat representing your country's interests abroad
Policy researcher analysing the potential impact of proposed changes
Law and justice
The critical thinking and argument skills developed through history make it an excellent foundation for legal careers, where you might work as a:
Lawyer arguing cases and interpreting complex legal precedents
Paralegal supporting legal research and case preparation
Court administrator managing the systems that keep justice flowing
Legal researcher investigating case law and regulatory changes
Education and training
Share your passion for understanding the world by helping others develop the same critical thinking skills as a:
Teacher inspiring the next generation of curious minds
Corporate trainer helping businesses develop their staff
Museum educator making history come alive for visitors
Curriculum developer designing engaging learning experiences
Arts and culture
Your deep appreciation for human creativity and cultural context opens doors in the creative industries. Careers for people with an interest in history include becoming a:
Museum curator selecting and presenting collections
Heritage consultant helping preserve important historical sites
Arts administrator managing cultural organisations
Exhibition designer creating immersive historical experiences
More jobs that need history
Enjoying history but not inspired by any of the jobs mentioned so far? That's fine - there are heaps more to explore too, like:
Archivist – preserve and organise historical documents and records that help us understand our shared heritage.
Genealogist – help people discover their family histories using research skills and historical knowledge.
Intelligence analyst – use research and analytical skills to assess threats and provide strategic insights to government agencies.
Historic preservation specialist – protect and restore important buildings and sites for future generations.
Travel writer – combine your knowledge of different cultures and places with storytelling skills to guide modern explorers.
Market researcher – investigate consumer behaviour and business trends using the same skills you'd use to analyse historical patterns.
Film researcher – ensure historical accuracy in movies and TV shows, helping bring the past to life on screen.
Publishing editor – use your research skills and attention to detail to help authors tell their stories effectively.
Data analyst – apply your pattern-recognition skills to make sense of large datasets in business or government.
Anthropologist – study human cultures and societies, both past and present, to understand how we've evolved as a species.
Political campaigner – use your understanding of how societies change to help shape public opinion and policy.
Grant writer – research funding opportunities and craft compelling proposals for non-profits and cultural organisations.
Corporate historian – help companies understand their heritage and use their stories for marketing and strategic planning.
Getting started
If you're interested in any of these careers and you're already studying history, you're already on the right track. Make sure to:
Develop your digital skills – learn to use databases, digital archives, and data analysis tools.
Build a portfolio – whether it's blog posts, research projects, or multimedia presentations.
Seek work experience – museums, archives, newspapers, and government offices all offer valuable opportunities.
Join relevant societies – connect with professional historians and learn about career opportunities.
Consider interdisciplinary studies – combining history with business, technology, or science can open even more doors.
Your future starts here
History isn't just about understanding the past; it's also about shaping the future. Whether you end up investigating corporate corruption as a journalist, advising governments on policy, or helping a start-up understand its market, your skills and passion for history could give you the tools to make a real difference.
Ready to discover more about study and career options? Explore the comprehensive guides and resources on our website here.