WHY STUDY HISTORY?

"I love history, but what can you do with a history major?"

"History is interesting, but I want to get a job after college." "

What good is a history major–I mean, what can you do with it?"

"History? Why?"

Lots of college students struggle with ideas like those expressed above. After all, history may be an interesting subject, but, really, why would anyone want to major in it? Unless you want to teach, wouldn't it be better to pursue a vocational major and get ready for the workforce?

The simple fact is that a history degree does exactly that–by empowering minds with critical thinking and communication skills. Learning to research will teaches "thinking outside the box." A knowledge of world history and cultures will better prepare the student to succeed in the global marketplace. Among the social sciences, history is the discipline most concerned with change, a valuable asset in today’s rapidly changing workforce. Since history encompasses the study of literally everything, historians often engage in interdisciplinary projects, allowing them to problem solve in different ways, using tools and traditions from widely varying fields. Add all of this up and the result is a well-rounded, educated person ready to succeed in today’s employment market.

Of course, lots of history majors go into education, either as teachers, coaches, or administrators, and that is many times the first area people think of when they consider any of the social sciences. But the fact is that history majors work in all sorts of areas. Many history majors go on to law school. The study of history and law are natural partners, since both historians and lawyers must learn to argue persuasively supporting themselves with evidence.

But law and education are just scratching the surface. A CNN/Money Website article from 2000 listed the following as prime examples of vocations open to history majors:

  • Museum work;

  • government agencies;

  • lobbyists;

  • publishing positions;

  • writers;

  • tourism bureau managers;

  • management consultants;

  • archivists; and

  • researchers.

The ASU history department is typical of university history departments. Our alumni include a large number of educators–but we also have former majors in all walks of life, including:

attorney

 judge
politician political staffers
government work social work
ministers non-profit directors
museum work archives
libraries state parks
research assistant administrative assistant
researcher editor
writer teacher
professor school counselor
tourism board management
banks stock brokerage
human resources medical offices
information systems buyers
business planners insurance

As you can see, ASU history grads are in all walks of life!  Many go on to graduate school, while others find rewarding careers with their bachelor degree.  Whichever course you decide to follow, one thing is true.  As you learn about the past, you will become prepared to face your own future with a set of skills that is valuable in whatever field you chose to enter.

Why study history?

Why not!