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Historians

Education and Training Requirements

High School

If you are interested in becoming a historian, be sure to take college preparatory courses in high school. Historians must be strong readers, writers, and speakers, so a strong background in English and speech will prepare you for further study in college. A knowledge of at least two foreign languages is also necessary for those who plan to earn a doctorate.

Postsecondary Training

The main educational requirement for a historian is graduate study. A master's degree in history is the minimum requirement for a college instructor's position, but the doctorate is much more desirable and is required by many colleges and universities. To become a professor or administrator, or to reach any other high level of employment, a doctorate is essential. Historians working for museums, historical societies, research councils, or the federal government generally have doctorates or the equivalent in training and experience. A person is rarely considered a professional historian without this educational background.

Some jobs for beginners with a bachelor's degree in history are available, usually with federal, state, or local governments. These jobs usually require knowledge of the archivist's work, but advancement without further education is unlikely. A number of high school teaching positions are also available, provided the applicant meets state requirements for certification.

Certification

Online learning platforms, professional associations, and colleges and universities offer certificate programs that help students and current technicians build their skills in historical research, various historical topics, teaching methodology, and other fields. Programs typically last six months to a year and are available in online, in-person, and hybrid formats. Contact schools and organizations in your area for information about available programs.

Other Education or Training

The Organization of American Historians (OAH), American Historical Association, and other professional associations offer continuing education opportunities via webinars, seminars, and classes. or example, the OAH offers webinars such as Building a Professional Network, Preparing for the Non-Academic Job Search, and Navigating Presidential Libraries. It also offers educational sessions at its conferences. Contact these organizations for more information.