Understanding the Value of a History Degree

Your history degree has opened doors to a world of knowledge and understanding. But how can you turn this valuable asset into a source of income? Let’s explore various ways to make money with a history degree.

Teaching and Academia

One of the most direct ways to leverage your history degree is by teaching. You can start by becoming a high school or college history teacher. This requires a teaching certification, which can be obtained through additional education and training. Once certified, you can find employment in public or private schools, or even teach online.

For those passionate about research and academia, consider pursuing a Ph.D. in history. This will open doors to teaching at the college level and conducting research in your area of interest.

Historical Consulting

With a deep understanding of history, you can offer your expertise as a historical consultant. This involves working with clients to provide historical context for projects, such as film productions, documentaries, or even marketing campaigns. You can find opportunities through networking, online job boards, or by reaching out to potential clients directly.

Historical consultants can earn anywhere from $30 to $100 per hour, depending on their expertise and the complexity of the project.

Writing and Publishing

Your history degree can also be a gateway to a career in writing and publishing. You can write articles, books, or even create historical content for websites and blogs. This can be a lucrative option if you have a knack for storytelling and can effectively communicate complex historical events.

Consider starting a blog or website focused on a specific historical topic. Monetize your content through advertising, affiliate marketing, or selling your own products, such as books or merchandise.

Archaeology and Preservation

Archaeology and historical preservation are fields that require a strong background in history. You can work as an archaeologist, helping to uncover and interpret historical sites, or as a preservationist, working to protect and restore historical landmarks.

These roles often require fieldwork and can be physically demanding. Salaries vary depending on the specific job and location, but can range from $30,000 to $70,000 per year.

Public History and Museum Work

Public history is a field that combines history with public engagement. You can work in museums, historical societies, or government agencies, helping to preserve and interpret history for the public. This can include roles such as curator, archivist, or education coordinator.

Salaries in public history vary widely, but can range from $30,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on the specific job and location.

Online Education and E-Learning

With the rise of online education, there’s a growing demand for history instructors. You can teach online courses through platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or your own website. This allows you to reach a global audience and set your own schedule.

Online instructors can earn anywhere from $20 to $100 per hour, depending on the course and platform.

Conclusion

While a history degree may not seem like the most obvious choice for a career, there are numerous ways to make money with this valuable degree. Whether you choose to teach, consult, write, or work in public history, your degree can open doors to a variety of exciting and rewarding opportunities.