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Few fields of study prepare students more broadly for the future than history. For history, as it is taught at Carthage, is far more than just names and dates. Through the lens of history, students learn to appreciate and understand how humans on all levels of society have lived and grappled with war, revolution, social change, and the environment.

History also provides students with the tools for a lifetime of meaningful work and intellectual endeavor. Critical thinking, effective oral communication, and good writing are the skills that are developed through the study of history. These skills provide the foundation for successful careers in law, business, journalism, government, education, the ministry, and other fields.

What is the career outlook for history professionals?

Employment for history majors varies by profession, location, and government funding. According to the , opportunities for historians are expected to grow 2 percent from 2024 to 2034. 

What is the average salary for people with a history degree?

Nationally, individuals with a bachelor’s degree in public relations report an average annual salary of $62,115 (according to ). 

What jobs can you get with a history degree?

Please note: Some jobs may require different levels of education.

Attorneys advise and represent clients in legal matters such as civil and criminal cases. They conduct research, prepare documents, negotiate agreements, and help their clients resolve issues. Attorneys tend to work in law firms, government agencies, and public interest organizations.

Yearly salary: $95,371 *

Archivists preserve and provide records and materials with long-term historical value. They acquire and research historical items and share the history with the public. Archivists work in government agencies, universities, museums, and historical societies. 

Yearly salary: $72,781 *

Congressional aides support U.S. representatives and senators by conducting legislative research, communications, and office administrations. They brief members on bills and inquiries, help draft speeches, and respond to constituents. 

Yearly salary: $33,585 *

Curators are subject-matter experts who research, acquire, document, and preserve works of art, artifacts, and specimens for cultural institutions. They interpret collections and develop exhibitions that engage and educate the public. Curators typically work in museums, art galleries, libraries, archives, and historic sites.

Yearly salary: $72,627 *

Folklorists examine and document the traditional beliefs, customs, and stories of communities. Their job is to preserve heritage and share the traditions of the communities that they study. Folklorists generally work in museums, government, and non-profit institutions. 

Yearly salary: $68,397 *

Government officials manage public services such as education, safety, and infrastructure, while representing citizens’ interests at different levels of government. They can participate in policy-making and legislation, implement laws, or interpret laws depending on which branch of government that they work for. Government officials explicitly work in government in the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. 

Yearly salary: $98,146 *

Historical interpreters are educators and storytellers who bring history to life for the public. They research and present historical events, daily life, and cultural traditions through demonstrations, guided tours, and interactive programs. Historical interpreters commonly work at museums, historic sites, living history museums, and cultural heritage organizations.

Yearly salary: $64,020 *

History teachers are educators who teach students about past events, cultures, and societies. They design lesson plans, deliver instruction, and assess student learning while encouraging critical thinking and historical analysis. History teachers work in middle schools, high schools, and postsecondary institutions.

Yearly salary: $58,099 *

Librarians manage library resources and help individuals find information. They also teach research and digital literacy, support community programs, and can work with budgeting and collection development. Librarians work in libraries and schools. 

Yearly salary: $65,193 *

Lobbyists advocate on behalf of corporations, unions, and nonprofit organizations by working to influence lawmakers and government officials. They support or oppose legislation and public policy in ways that align with their clients’ interests. Lobbyists typically work near state capitals or in Washington, D.C.

Yearly salary: $50,941 *

Paralegals aid lawyers by conducting legal research, drafting briefs and contracts, interviewing clients and witnesses, and handling other administrative tasks. They help prepare for trials, hearings, and closings. Paralegals work in law firms and for district attorneys and public defenders. 

Yearly salary: $59,731 *

Pastors preach and teach biblical truths, lead worship, and provide spiritual guidance. They share the stories of their religion to those around them. Pastors work in spiritual settings, such as churches or on missionary trips. 

Yearly salary: $60,902 *

Public historians make the past accessible through historical research. They work with preservation, curation, and interpretation of history and present it to the public through writing, documentaries, and exhibitions. Public historians work in a variety of places including archives, museums, government, media, and historic sites. 

Yearly salary: $86,335 *

Records managers oversee the organization, maintenance, and preservation of records and information throughout their lifecycle. They ensure records are accurate, secure, and accessible while complying with legal, regulatory, and organizational requirements. Records managers work in government agencies, corporations, nonprofit organizations, and other institutions that manage large volumes of information.

Yearly salary: $68,956 *

Town administrators manage the daily operations of local government and oversee municipal departments and services. They implement policies set by elected officials, manage budgets, and coordinate programs to ensure efficient and effective public services. Town administrators work for cities and towns in collaboration with elected leaders, department heads, and community stakeholders.

Yearly salary: $80,489 *

*Information for all average yearly salaries in the United States were taken from .

Where do Carthage history graduates work now?

  • City of Fort Lauderdale — Manager, War Memorial Auditorium
  • Department of Defense — Oral History Program Director
  • EDI — Inventory Control Specialist
  • Executive Office of the President — Homeland Security Branch Chief
  • Harley-Davidson Motor Company — Logistic Planning Coordinator
  • King High School — History Teacher
  • Rosewell Branch Library — Reference Librarian
  • Snap-On Credit — Account Manager
  • U.S. Department of HUD — Investigator/Equal Opportunity Specialist
  • Village of Wilmette, IL — Urban Planner
  • Wisconsin Electric — Digital Mapping Recorder

Carthage grads have also pursued graduate studies in social studies, history, and law.

Hear from Carthage history alumni

Visit the aspire center for more information on careers after carthage