History is often seen as an intellectual pursuit concerned with events of the past. When we think about preparing for careers and jobs that we can pursue after college or university, a history degree is certainly one of the last things that come to mind. What can you possibly do with knowledge of ancient civilizations, the causes of world events, or the happenings of the Turkish Empire? Is there a job you can have with a background in history? Why study the subject at all?
You might be surprised to know that history is one of the most important disciplines one can learn, and that the skills acquired through a history program can be applied in a number of professions. So what can you do with a history degree other than be a “history buff”?
It is important for people and societies to understand their past, and the culture and stories that have evolved over time. As humans, we are naturally curious about who came before us, how we lived, why we fought, and why things are the way they are. With an understanding of history - with all of its different perspectives - we can understand ourselves better and hopefully be less likely to make the same mistakes as generations past.
Studying history is all about exploring primary documents and evidence. Though a careful analysis of the artifacts and documents that were passed down or discovered, we can get closer to understanding how people lived and applied their thinking. History doesn’t always have to be about events or people that are globally renowned. It is also about understanding our families, the migration patterns of our ancestors, their lived experiences, and the unique traditions and cultures they share.
If you are passionate about learning history but are second guessing a possible history major because you are wondering if you will have a steady career, you have come to the right place. This article is all about why learning history is important, not only for the purpose of acquiring knowledge but skills that will prepare you for the workforce. We will also discuss what your history studies might look like after secondary school.
History is important in so many different ways. As a society, we need to document and understand our history so we can better understand our world. But what skills will you need to succeed in the subject?
The Importance of Pursuing Your Interests
It can be easy to let the workforce guide your choice of study. We want to be productive members of the economy in adulthood: we need to eat, first of all, and we also want to have a comfortable lifestyle.
This doesn’t mean you should not pursue your passions, however, especially if your interests lie in History. In fact, studying history may be your pathway to arriving at the career of your dreams. History graduates can work in a number of fields including:
- education
- law
- government
- business
- politics
- academia
- information science
- archeaology
- Museums
- arts and culture
History is typically considered a liberal arts discipline. Through history, you gain knowledge and skills grounded in historical inquiry. You can combine history with any other subject that interests you, whether it is English, Science, or Archaeology.
The benefit of pursuing your interests in postsecondary school is that you will likely be more engaged in your work and research. When we are more engaged in our studies, the more likely it is that we will be successful in our learning and finish our program of study. Once you have your degree, you can enter the workforce with a confidence of a university graduate, or apply for graduate or professional studies that require you to have an undergraduate degree as a condition of entry. Education and law programs, for example, only admit students that have already completed a degree.
Teaching history is one of the most important components of education. As a teacher of history, you are passing down cultural knowledge from one generation to the next, helping to build a sense of collective identity and understanding about the world.
What is History Learning Like After Secondary School?
Let’s start by examining the ways a study of history will be different from learning in high school or secondary school. If you are in the midst or have completed your secondary courses in history, you probably noticed a significant emphasis on Canadian and British history throughout your years of learning.
As a university student of history, you will find that there are many more options and possibilities. Your first and second year courses may focus on large, broad themes, but as you progress you will be able to specialize into areas that you are specifically interested in. Some areas of study include:
- American History
- African Diasporic History
- East Asian History
- Middle Eastern Studies
- Women's Studies
- Art History
In high school, a lot of the sources you examine are secondary resources such as textbooks and articles. In university, you may find yourself reading more scholarly resources from journals, and primary artifacts directly from the period you are studying. You may also find yourself delving deeper into methodologies for studying history, and theoretical frameworks from which you can interpret historical information.
Students that choose to pursue a degree or postsecondary program in history understand that they are engaging in a journey of learning that will be rich and fascinating. They may also be wondering what their career prospects are like, particularly in the field of education.
What Skills will I Learn in History Class?
You are probably curious to know what skills you will acquire in a history program that will help you in the workplace. As a history student in university, much of your work will involve writing lengthy research papers where you will be expected to utilize a number of resources to complete your work. You will spend lots of time synthesizing information, examining perspectives critically, and identifying new perspectives and interpretations of the past. Here is a list of just some of the skills you might learn:
- communication and writing
- reading
- research
- inquiry
- analytical
- critical thinking
With a broad skillset based in historical thinking and inquiry, you will be well prepared to learn applied, professional practices quickly. For example, if you want to work in education as a history teacher, you will simply need to acquire pedagogical skills. If you want to practice law, you will have acquired the reading and critical analysis skills that make you a successful law student and practitioner. If you want to work in the arts and culture industry, perhaps in a museum or gallery, you will have the knowledge and historical context it takes to do the work of curation and storytelling.
Studying history is seen often as a pursuit of passion because it doesn't lead to a specific job like doctor or engineer. If ideas like these have made you question a pursuit of history, you may be pleased to know that history students have plenty of career options.
Do Students Need a History Tutor?
History can be complex and challenging, even when they are passionate about the subject. For example, you may want help writing papers or preparing for exams and tests, which is both stressful and time consuming. If you want an extra boost of support and want to maximize your coursework, why not hire a history tutor?
Finding a history tutor is easy thanks to Superprof Canada. The site contains listings for tutors in nearly any area of learning you can think of, including history. Use the site to search tutors near you or that have a background in the area you need. You can contact the ones that interest you most through the website, and see if they will be a good fit for your needs.
Though teaching certainly has its stressors, it is a challenging and dynamic role. As a teacher, you. receive all the rewards of working with children and teenagers, helping them to develop the knowledge and skills it takes to survive in the real world.
How Do I Find History Tutor Jobs?
On the other hand, you may feel like you are ready to share your talent and passion for history as a tutor. There are many benefits to working as a history tutor: you can work as much or as little as you want, build pedagogical skills if education is your future career goal, or help others pursuing their goals. If you are looking to build your resume or portfolio, starting your own business as a tutor or an educator is impressive, and will provide you an excellent experience to speak to on a resume.
Furthermore, You can make a steady side income through tutoring, which is great if you are looking to earn extra money or make ends meet as a graduate student. If you really push your services and receive referrals, you can certainly make a steady income well above the minimum wage. And remember - history can be just one area you provide tutoring services for!
Signing up as a tutor on Superprof is easy. Upload your photo and background to the site (you’ll find plenty of examples to provide inspiration). Then simply wait to be contacted, or promote your profile on your social media sites or other sharing platforms.
Hire a tutor - or become a tutor - on Superprof today!
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