Is being a historian a good fit for you?
Researches and explains the past using records, newspapers, objects and other sources.
What the work involves
- Gathers historical information from archives, court records, diaries, news files, photographs, books and magazines.
- Organises information and works out whether it is genuine and how important it is.
- Prepares publications and exhibits, or checks those made by others, for historical accuracy.
- Organises information for publishing online and in other formats.
The interests that suit it
People in this work tend to be curious and organising. Here is how much each of the six kinds of interest comes into it.
What it tends to reward
Compared with other work, this job stands out for:
- Mastery. Getting really good at something over time.
- Achievement. Progress, recognition, ambitious goals.
- Independence. Trusted to decide how the work gets done.
How much training it needs
Degree required. Usually a degree, sometimes more study after. Rules differ from country to country, so check locally before you commit.
Find out if it fits you
Answer quick questions about what you like doing and what keeps you going. We match you with roles from over 900 kinds of work, and you can see if a historian is one of yours.
Free. About 15 minutes. No account.