How to become a Historian - Salary, Qualifications, Skills & Reviews – SEEK (2024)

FAQs

What are the qualifications to be a historian? ›

Historians typically need a master's degree or Ph. D. to enter the occupation. Many historians have a master's degree in history or public history. Others complete degrees in related fields, such as museum studies, historical preservation, or archival management.

Places that employ historians include museums, research institutions, historical societies, non-profit organizations and archives. Alternatively, you may decide to provide services to these organizations as an independent consultant or with a consulting company.

This profession requires reading and writing skills, an aptitude for independent research and the ability to distill complex subjects into informative and engaging materials. Historians also work with colleagues and contacts to gain access to historical documents that may not be available to the public.

Job Outlook

Employment of historians is projected to grow 3 percent from 2022 to 2032, about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 300 openings for historians are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

While there are plenty of positive things to be said about teaching yourself, if you plan on becoming a respected authority on any historical event, formal education (of at least a master's degree) is a must, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Master's programs in history usually last about two years, while Ph. D. programs typically take a minimum of five years to complete; you'll have the best job prospects with a doctoral degree.

Earning potential

Some historians have a high earning potential, depending on their chosen career route. For example, the average salary for a professor is $55,074 per year . This position can also come with benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

Public historians or academic historians are expected to deliver lectures and engage with their audience, so having a good demeanour, including polite and courteous behaviour not only helps historians perform their duties but makes the difference between a good and a great historian.

An excellent knowledge of and understanding of people, events and contexts from a range of historical periods. The ability to think, reflect, debate, discuss and evaluate the past. A respect for historical evidence and the ability to make use of it to support their explanations and judgements.

What is the highest paying job for history? ›

With a degree in history, you can study what you love and then apply that knowledge to the career field of your choice. You'll be able to use your skills as a historian to better understand the past and help build a rewarding career in the present.

A historian is a person who studies and writes about the past and is regarded as an authority on it. Historians are concerned with the continuous, methodical narrative and research of past events as relating to the human race; as well as the study of all history in time.

It is somewhat difficult to become a historian.In addition to the educational requirements, candidates must also contend with low demand and lack of job security.

The typical trained public historian receives their undergraduate and/or graduate degree in public history or museum studies. They should be well prepared to communicate history to the public. They may not have as much training in sophisticated thinking about history.

Writes a narrative of activities and events. Maintains a scrapbook of documents & memorabilia from events. Coordinates activities with yearbook teams. Publicizes activities.