If you’re interested in history, there are a number of different careers that you could consider. Some of them include: genealogy, teaching, and museum technicians and conservators.
Teaching
History teachers help students learn about past events and how they affect our present. Their duties may include preparing students for standardized testing, collaborating with other teachers, and ensuring that all state requirements are met.
History teachers at all levels are in demand, and a bachelor’s degree is a prerequisite for those seeking a teaching career. However, it is also possible to teach without a degree. A few states require that history teachers have a master’s degree or other relevant certification.
History teachers can be found in public schools, private schools, alternative schools, and museums. Their job responsibilities vary, but generally they have a hand in developing curriculum and extracurricular activities. They are also expected to be news-savvy and use digital technology to improve their lessons.
The best teachers are those that combine knowledge with a passion for the subject. They should be personable, well-organized, and able to pass on history to a new generation. They must be willing to learn from others and be willing to listen to opposing viewpoints.
Archiving and heritage
If you have a passion for history and preservation, archiving and heritage careers may be a great choice. These professionals preserve the historical significance of artifacts and documents and make them available to the public. These professionals have extensive knowledge of their collections and can work in a variety of settings.
Archives are found at local, state, and federal levels. Their jobs include developing educational programs, educating the public, and organizing and cataloging documents. They often collaborate with other professionals and educators.
Some archivists work for large institutions such as the National Archives in Washington, D.C. Others have more specific interests. For example, archivists working for a state or local history museum will need to know about the culture and history of their community.
If you want to get started in archiving and heritage careers, the first step is to complete a degree program. There are several options, including a graduate degree or certificate in archival studies. You can also participate in workshops and training sessions sponsored by the professional organizations.
Museum technicians and conservators
Museum technicians and conservators are in the business of preserving and displaying art works. They perform tasks that range from cleaning and restoring displays to maintaining documentation. Depending on the nature of the institution, they may work regular business hours or require evening and weekend hours.
Museum technicians and conservators typically have a bachelor’s degree. Their jobs can be found in a variety of institutions, including museums, art galleries, libraries, parks, and science centers. They typically work with curators and other experts to ensure that the collections are properly preserved and made available for visitors.
While there are no required certifications, most employers look for at least a bachelor’s degree in a field related to the field. You might want to consider a certificate or diploma in a subject such as anthropology, history, or archival studies. You can also choose to join a professional organization such as the American Association of Museums or the Canadian Museums Association.
Several organizations offer internships. These can give you a hands-on experience and help you build your resume.
Genealogy
Genealogy careers are as diverse as the skill sets of individuals involved. Some genealogists work full-time, while others are self-employed. For those interested in working in a corporate environment, there are several opportunities.
If you’re an enthusiastic historian with a penchant for researching your family’s history, genealogy can be an ideal career for you. You’ll be able to learn a variety of new skills, develop your business acumen, and work on projects that interest you.
A variety of genealogy careers exist, from private investigators to museum workers to reference librarians. While most genealogists are self-employed, a few companies offer their services. Some specialize in American genealogy or European genealogy, while others work to trace a client’s family tree.
The job of a private investigator is to find and verify information about people. These investigators can also be employed to solve mysteries involving genealogy. These private investigators are known for their sleuthing skills, as they hunt down relatives of unknown or living people.