Some possible jobs within this career area are:
Because most liberal arts students are still deciding on an exact career path, there is no definite set of certifications necessary. It’s recommended by most career counselors, however, that liberal arts students earn either their Associate’s Degree or Bachelor’s Degree. You also could continue your studies and earn a Master’s Degree in either liberal arts or a related area of study. Frequently offered liberal arts certifications include:
- Associate’s Degree
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Master’s Degree
During an economic downturn, a liberal arts major might be an excellent choice for some students, particularly those who are weighing their overall career options. This is because as a liberal arts student, you receive a foundation in a variety of disciplines. You can augment your education by getting internships, which helps you decide a career path while also receiving on-the-job training. Some career counselors also say that liberal arts majors are more flexible when it comes to changing their careers, which could make you a more attractive candidate in a tough job market.
If you enroll in an Associate’s Degree program in the liberal arts, you can expect to finish it in two years. Bachelor’s Degree programs typically take four years to complete. If you decide to enter graduate school, your Master’s Degree can take two to four years, depending on the program.
How to Become a Historian
A historian studies the past and conducts research to generate new information or theories about their particular subject. Historians must earn at least a Master’s degree and often a Doctorate before being considered proficient. As you become a historian, you will choose a specific area of expertise that will guide your advanced studies in the field. Universities and colleges employ approximately 70 percent of all who choose a career as a historian.
Education for a career as a Historian
Your education to become a historian will typically entail 12 or more history courses, including studies in United States, Canadian, European, British, Asian, African, Latin American, And Middle Eastern history. As soon as you narrow your choice of specialty you should begin literature and language classes for the period and area of concentration.
Besides core classes such as English, composition, and social sciences you should concentrate on mathematic subjects such as statistics, which will help you in your career as a historian. If you continue your education to earn a Doctorate you will be required to study more advanced subjects in your field; a dissertation will be required before graduation.
Historian Salaries
Although historian salaries appear low at first glance you should keep in mind that many historians augment their income through consulting, writing, and lecturing. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics the average historian salary in 2008 was $50,790. The lowest reported historian salaries, reflecting entry-level positions, averaged $24,650 and the highest paid earned over $93,900 per year. (Salary data retrieved 7/11/11)
Find a degree program now that could lead you to a successful career as a historian!