15+ Career Options After History: Top Paying Jobs & Growth Opportunities in 2025

People are often under the myth that career options after history studies are limited to academic and research; however, this is not the entire truth. A history degree prepares you for a variety of history-related careers by honing your research, analytical, and critical thinking abilities. So, you’re not just learning what happened in the past; you’re learning to critically analyze these historical events and how lessons from history can be utilized to make informed decisions for the future.

In this blog, we will introduce you to over 15 career options after history, including media, journalism, politics, law, and literary and academic fields. We’ll also cover different history-related jobs and emerging history job opportunities you can pursue after a graduate or postgraduate degree in history. 

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What are the Top 20 Career Options After History?

There are many career opportunities in history for those who have a keen interest in the past and want to build a meaningful career. The scope of history in India has grown steadily over the years. Here are some of the most popular history-related jobs you can explore to build a strong professional path in this field.

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Academic & Research Career Options After History

1. Historian

A historian is responsible for researching and interpreting historical events, people, and cultures. They help explain how the past has shaped societies, governments, and global developments. Historians often work with educational institutions, museums, research organizations, and government agencies.
The historian's salary in India is INR 4.2 lakhs per year.

What do historians do?

• Research historical events, people, and cultural developments.
• Study historical records to identify patterns and insights.
• Write and publish books, articles, or papers in journals and magazines.
• Work with museums, schools, or cultural organisations to promote historical understanding

To become a historian, you should have an educational background in history, archaeology, or a related field. Many historians pursue postgraduate degrees, such as a Master’s or PhD, especially if they aspire to work in research or academia. It’s important to build strong skills in research, writing, and analysis. Practical experience through internships, research projects, or roles in museums and educational institutions can help build expertise in this field.

2. Researcher

A researcher in history works to explore the past by studying historical records, documents, and sources. Their work helps build a deeper understanding of historical events and their impact on the present. Their role helps preserve historical knowledge and uncover new insights about societies and events. They often work with educational institutions, research organizations, or museums. 
The average salary of a researcher is INR 7 lakhs per year.

What do researchers do?

• Conduct research on historical events, people, and cultural developments
• Study records and sources to interpret historical information
• Publish research findings in journals, books, or articles
• Work with other experts like historians and archaeologists, to further expand historical understanding
• Assist in curating historical exhibits and providing expert analysis. 

How to become a Researcher

To become a researcher in the field of history, you should start with a degree in history, research, or a related subject. Those aiming for advanced roles in research often pursue a master’s or PhD in a specialized area. It’s essential to develop strong skills in analysis, writing, and research. You can further gain experience through research papers, academic projects, or by working with historical archives to help build a strong foundation for a career in research.

3. History Professor

A history professor teaches college students about various periods, cultures, and events from the past. They guide students in developing critical thinking and research skills while also contributing to academic research. History professors typically work in universities and colleges, shaping the next generation of historians and scholars.
The average salary of a history professor in India is INR 7 lakhs per year.

What do they do?

• Teach undergraduate or postgraduate courses on history topics
• Guide students in research, projects, and academic writing
• Conduct and publish original research in specialized areas of history
• Participate in academic conferences, seminars, and curriculum development 

How to become a History Professor
The course of becoming a history professor requires you to dedicate yourself to a longer duration of study. If you want to become a history professor, you need a strong academic background in history, starting with a bachelor’s degree. Then, the next step would be to pursue an M.A. or a master’s degree is essential. Finally, you will need to crack admission into a PhD, to be eligible for teaching at the university level. Although you can apply for assistant professor roles right after your master’s degree, given that you clear the UGC NET examination. The role of a history professor requires experience in research, teaching, and academic writing. Participating in seminars, publishing papers, and contributing to historical research can strengthen your academic career.

Know more about the Scope of MA History: Top 10 Ranking Jobs For Freshers & Experienced

4. Teacher

As a history teacher, you will be responsible for helping students study important historical events, civilizations, and their significance. History teachers work in schools and junior colleges, educating students on the importance of studying history and encouraging them to develop an interest in learning about the past.

The average salary of a history teacher is INR 4.32 lakhs per year.

What do they do?

• Teach history lessons to students following a curriculum set by the respective institution or education board
• Create lesson plans, assessments, and study materials for students
• Encourage critical thinking by connecting historical events to modern-day issues
• Organize educational trips or activities related to history to encourage an outdoor learning experience, and not be limited to textbook learning 

How to become a Teacher
To become a history teacher, you need to first obtain a bachelor’s degree in history or education. For teaching in schools, a B.Ed. (Bachelor of Education) is generally required. If you want to teach in higher secondary, you will be required to pursue a Master’s degree in history, which will make you eligible for a PGT role to teach history to 11th and 12th standard students in India. Some important skills you will need in this role are strong communication, planning, classroom management, and presentation skills. Experience through internships, teaching assistantships, or volunteering at schools can help build your teaching career.

5. Political Analyst

A political analyst works to understand and explain how historical political events connect with current developments. They help shape public discussions and inform governance by drawing on insights from past policies and events. This career suits those interested in how history and politics influence society today.

The average salary of a political analyst is INR 8 lakhs per year.

What do they do?

• Study and interpret historical political events and trends
• Research past policies to provide context for current affairs
• Offer insights to support decision-making in governance and public policy
• Collaborate with think tanks, media, or government bodies to share findings 

How to become a Political Analyst?

You can pursue a career as a political analyst with a degree in history, political science, or a related subject. For advanced roles or research positions, a master’s degree in political science or history is usually required. Strong skills in research, analysis, and communication are important to succeed in this field. Gaining experience through internships, writing, or research projects can give you a good start.

Know what are the Top 26 Career Options in Political Science

6. Business Consultant

With a history degree, you can work as a business consultant too, however, you would require the right transitioning skills and experience for that to happen. You can leverage your analytical skills to organizations by offering your analytical perspective on long-term trends, cultural shifts, and historical case studies. This role is ideal for those who want to connect historical thinking with modern business decisions.

The average salary of a business consultant is INR 14.5 lakhs per year.

What do they do?

• Provide strategic advice to businesses using historical analysis and trends
• Help organizations understand market changes through historical context
• Assist in planning long-term goals by analyzing past industry patterns
• Work with companies to develop strategies that align with social and cultural shifts 

How to become a Business Consultant?
You can pursue a career as a business consultant with a degree in history, business, or a related subject. A master’s in business administration (MBA) or history can open doors to advanced roles. You can also gain practical experience by pursuing internships, consulting projects, or analytical roles in organizations. 

Media & Communication Career Options After History

1. Journalist 

Journalists focusing on history bring the past into today’s conversations. They research and report on historical topics, helping the public understand how earlier events connect with present-day issues. History-focused journalists work across print, digital, and broadcast media to produce accurate, engaging content. Moreover, historical career opportunities in journalism are expanding across traditional media outlets, online platforms, and news agencies.

The average salary of a journalist is INR 4.2 lakhs per year.

What do they do?

• Research and write news stories, features, and opinion pieces on historical topics
• Create documentaries or segments for television, radio, or online platforms
• Collaborate with experts and historians to ensure accuracy
• Write for newspapers, magazines, websites, and online publications 

How to become a Journalist?

You can start your journey as a journalist with a degree in journalism, history, or a related field. If you’re aiming for advanced roles or specialized reporting, a master’s degree in journalism can be helpful. Strong skills in writing, research, and analysis are essential. Experience through internships, writing for student publications, or freelance work helps build a solid foundation for a career in journalism.

Also Read: Masters in Journalism Career Path: Top Jobs, Salaries & Future Prospects

2. Content Writer 

Writers in this field focus on crafting stories, educational content, and historical analysis that connect the past with present-day readers. This job role is right for those with strong writing skills and a passion for historical research, offering opportunities in books, blogs, magazines, and educational materials.

The average salary of a content writer is INR 3.6 lakhs per year.

What do they do?

• Write articles, books, and blogs on historical topics and themes
• Create educational content for websites, magazines, and digital platforms
• Work with historians, museums, and academic institutions for research support
• Ensure accuracy, clarity, and readability in all written content 

How to become a Content Writer?

To build a career in content writing in the history domain, you should have a degree in history, English literature, journalism, or a related subject. And if you want to go for specialized writing roles, you may pursue a master’s degree in a relevant area. Skills like strong writing, research, and editing skills are important for this role. In order to strengthen your profile, consider gaining experience through internships, freelancing, or contributing to publications. 

Read more here: How to Become a Content Writer in 2025?

3. Editor 

Editors in history-related publishing ensure that historical content is clear, accurate, and well-presented. They work with writers, researchers, and historians to refine manuscripts and articles before publication. It’s a good fit for those who enjoy language, details, and historical analysis.

The average salary of an editor is INR 6 lakhs per year.

What do they do?

• Review and edit historical content for clarity, grammar, and accuracy
• Ensure proper sourcing and citations for historical material
• Collaborate with authors and subject experts to strengthen manuscripts
• Maintain editorial standards while making content accessible to readers 

How to become an Editor?

To become an editor, you should have a degree in history, English literature, journalism, or a related field. Strong writing, editing, and research skills are essential for this role. Working with publishing houses, magazines, or media organizations can help you gain the experience needed to build a successful career in editing.

4. Publishing Professional

A publishing professional works with written content, often focusing on books, magazines, or digital publications that cover historical topics. This career suits individuals who enjoy combining historical knowledge with content production and editing.

The average salary of a publisher is INR 6 lakhs per year.

What do they do?

• Edit and review historical manuscripts, books, and journals
• Work with authors to publish content for print and digital platforms
• Ensure historical accuracy and readability in publications
• Manage the publishing process from manuscript to final release 

How to become a Publishing Professional?
A degree in history, literature, journalism, or publishing is recommended for this role. Building skills in editing, writing, and content management is important. Experience in publishing houses, internships, or editorial positions will help you get started in the field.

Museums, Heritage & Cultural Career Options After History

1. Archaeologist

If you are someone who is eager to learn about the past, a career in archaeology offers exciting history job opportunities. Archaeologists bring history to life by uncovering and studying physical evidence of past civilizations. Their work helps explain cultural developments through excavations and analysis of artifacts and historical sites. This is a career for those curious about the ancient world and passionate about discovery.

The average salary of an archaeologist is INR 14 lakhs per year.

What do they do?

• Conduct fieldwork to excavate and analyze historical sites and objects
• Study ancient civilizations through artifacts and cultural remains
• Collaborate with museums, universities, and historical organizations
• Write reports and research papers based on archaeological discoveries 

How to become an Archaeologist?

You can pursue a career in archaeology with a degree in archaeology, history, or a related field. For advanced research or specialized roles, a master’s or PhD in archaeology is often required. Strong skills in research, analysis, and fieldwork are essential. Practical experience through internships, excavation projects, or historical research helps build your career in this field.

2. Heritage Manager

A heritage manager works to protect and promote historical and cultural sites, making sure that they are preserved for future generations. They handle everything from conservation to public outreach, often working with museums, government agencies, or nonprofit organizations dedicated to cultural preservation.

The average salary of a heritage manager is INR 3.28 lakhs per year.

What do they do?

• Manage the preservation and maintenance of historical sites, monuments, and artifacts
• Develop programs and events to engage the public with cultural heritage
• Work with government bodies and nonprofits to secure funding for conservation efforts
• Collaborate with archaeologists, historians, and conservation specialists to ensure authenticity
• Supervise educational activities and exhibits related to historical preservation 

How to become a Heritage Manager?

To become a heritage manager, you should have a degree in history, archaeology, museum studies, or a related subject. For specialized roles, a master’s in heritage management or a similar field is recommended. As a heritage manager, you need to have strong organizational skills and project management skills. Gaining experience through internships or working with heritage sites and NGOs can help you start your career in this field.

Also Read: How to Become a Project Manager: Simple Steps to Start

3. Museum Curator

A Museum Curator plays a vital role in managing historical artifacts, exhibits, and collections, preserving cultural heritage, and educating the public. Curators help design exhibitions that tell the story of history through tangible objects, making this an ideal career for those passionate about preserving history for future generations.

The average salary of a museum curator is INR 12 lakhs per year.

 Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee and manage museum collections of historical artifacts.
• Design and curate engaging exhibits based on historical themes.
• Work closely with historians, archaeologists, and other experts to ensure the accuracy of exhibits.
• Educate visitors about historical topics through presentations and guided tours. 

How to Become a Museum Curator?

A degree in history, archaeology, or museum studies is usually required to work as a museum curator. For roles in larger museums or specialized positions, a master’s degree can be helpful. Strong organizational skills and experience with museum collections or exhibitions are key to building a successful career in this field.

Best Government Jobs After Studying History

1. Civil Services 

Civil servants with a background in history contribute significantly to public policy, cultural heritage management, and the preservation of historical resources. In India, numerous history-related job opportunities within government institutions involve preserving national history, managing archives, and advising on cultural heritage policy.

The average salary of a civil servant in India is INR 6.7 lakhs per year.

What do they do? 

• Develop and implement policies related to cultural heritage, history, and education.
• Work with historical sites, museums, and archives to protect and promote historical assets.
• Advise the government on matters related to history, heritage, and education.
• Oversee the administration of historical research projects and government-funded initiatives.
• Ensure that history-related regulations and policies are adhered to at the local and national levels. 

How to become a Civil Servant?
If you are interested in making a change in society and administration, then civil service jobs are the ones for you. To start a career in civil services, you should have a degree in history, public administration, or a related subject. For leadership or policy roles, a master’s degree in public policy or history can be helpful. It’s important to develop strong analytical, leadership, and communication skills. Preparing for competitive exams like UPSC is a key step toward working in government roles.

2. Lawyer 

Lawyers in history-related roles work to protect cultural sites, artifacts, and intellectual property linked to historical heritage. They often collaborate with museums, governments, and nonprofits to resolve legal issues connected to preserving history. The scope of careers in history for lawyers is growing, particularly in sectors like intellectual property, conservation, and human rights.

The average salary of a lawyer is INR 8 lakhs per year.

What do they do?

• Advise on legal matters related to cultural property and heritage preservation
• Represent organizations in disputes over ownership of historical artifacts or documents
• Draft and review legal agreements for research, exhibitions, and preservation projects
• Work with museums, academic institutions, and heritage organizations to uphold legal standards.

How to become a Lawyer?

You can pursue a career as a lawyer by completing an LLB after your undergraduate studies. For advanced or specialized roles in cultural heritage or intellectual property, a master’s in law (LLM can be helpful. Strong skills in research, negotiation, and legal writing are essential. Familiarity with heritage laws and related regulations strengthens your expertise in this field.

To know more, read our Step-by-Step Guide on How to Become a Lawyer in India

3. Education Officer

Education officers in the field of history help students and the public learn about historical events and their relevance today. They design educational programs and resources that bring history to life in classrooms, museums, or community programs.

The average salary of an education officer is INR 6.6 lakhs per year.

What do they do?

• Create and deliver educational programs focused on historical topics
• Develop teaching materials that explain historical events clearly and engagingly
• Organize events, workshops, or activities such as field trips to historical sites
• Assess and support learners’ understanding of historical subjects

How to become an Education Officer

A degree in history, education, or a related subject is usually required to work as an education officer. If you’re aiming for higher-level teaching or specialized educational roles, a master’s degree can be helpful. Strong communication skills and a passion for teaching are important. Gaining experience through internships or working in museums and educational programs gives you a good foundation.

Also Read: Career Options After MA in India in 2025: What To Do After MA?

Emerging and Unconventional Career Options After History

As humanities and social sciences continue to evolve in terms of new career opportunities, we also see a shift towards unconventional career roles. These emerging roles are a blend of foundational knowledge and critical thinking skills with new-age digital skills. 

Let’s take a look at some of these emerging career options after history that are on the rise across industries: 

1. Content Strategist

A content strategist looks into the planning and creation of content to educate, inform, or engage different audiences, often using historical themes for storytelling or educational platforms. This career is ideal for history graduates who enjoy combining research with digital communication to devise creative content strategy methods.

The average salary of a content strategist is INR 7.9 lakhs per year.
 What do they do?

• Plan and develop content strategies focused on different topics or themes
• Work with writers, designers, and editors to produce engaging content
• Ensure content aligns with brand goals or educational objectives
• Use research to create accurate, relevant, and audience-focused materials 

How to become a Content Strategist?
You can start with a degree in history, journalism, or communications. Then you will need to gain experience through internships, writing gigs, in digital marketing. Your goal while learning should be to develop skills in writing, research, SEO, and project management, which are quite important for this role.

Also check out this course on upGrad’s Generative AI Mastery Certificate for Content Creation in collaboration with Microsoft and leverage the power of AI in your content creation journey!

2. Digital Archivist

A digital archivist works to preserve and organize historical documents, photographs, and records in digital formats. This role is basically a modern spin on the traditional archivist role, who takes care of physical archives. So, if you are someone who is interested in how history and technology can come together to preserve archives, this role is for you.

The average salary of a digital archivist is INR 9.88 lakhs per year.

What do they do?

• Digitize historical documents and materials for preservation
• Organize and manage online archives for institutions, museums, or libraries
• Work with historians and researchers to provide access to digital collections
• Maintain the integrity and security of historical digital records

How to become a Digital Archivist?
You can pursue this career with a degree in history, library science, or archival studies. You will require specialized training and certifications in digital archiving and records management. To start off, you can pursue Internships or assistant roles in libraries, museums, or archives to gain hands-on experience.

3. Cultural Heritage Conservator

A cultural heritage conservator works to protect and restore historical artifacts, monuments, or buildings. This role is ideal for those passionate about preserving physical pieces of history for future generations.

The average salary of a cultural heritage conservator is INR 5.25 lakhs per year.

What do they do?

• Restore and preserve historical objects, documents, and artworks
• Conduct research to choose the right conservation methods
• Collaborate with museums, archaeological teams, and heritage organizations
• Ensure that cultural artifacts remain accessible and in good condition for study and exhibition

How to become a Cultural Heritage Conservator?
A degree in history, conservation, or museum studies is recommended. Many conservators pursue master’s degrees in conservation or heritage management to establish a stronger command and expertise in their role. Practical training through internships or working in conservation labs helps build the skills required for this field.

Now that you are well aware of the range of career options that span the discipline of history, let’s look at some proven ways to choose the appropriate history career path.

How to Choose the Right Career Path in History?

Since there are a multitude of career options after history studies, you should pursue roles and career paths that align with your personal strengths and interests. Then, you will be able to contribute well to your decided career path. So, what are some factors that you should consider when choosing a career path in history? Let’s find out with some helpful tips that can help you narrow down your options.

1. Identify Your Interests: This requires exploring different aspects within history, such as education, museum job roles, or media and communication roles. So, whether it is a knack for teaching, interest in a creative role, or a passion for archaeology, you can decide where you can work within your area of interest. 
2. Align with Your Skills: After you identify your interests, you need to align them with your existing skills and identify the gaps that exist. In this way, you can either divide to upgrade your skills or utilize your current strengths for a role of your choice. 
3. Consider Future Growth: You also need to take a look at the long-term prospects of your chosen career. Since history is now a popular field, you can witness demand in education, media, and online platforms.
4. Obtain Relevant Education and Experience:  Depending on your chosen path, acquiring additional qualifications such as a Master’s degree or gaining hands-on experience through internships can boost your career prospects.

What are the Skills Required for a Career in History?

To excel in careers in history, certain skills are crucial. These skills not only make you a proficient historian but also enhance your employability in various history-related jobs. Whether you're pursuing roles in research, teaching, or content creation, honing these skills will help you succeed in this field:

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Top Recruiters for History Graduates 

History graduates are in demand across sectors and companies that are looking to hire them for their suitability and alignment with certain roles in the government, private as well and non-government sectors. Let’s find out more about the top recruiters for history graduates, which reflects the wide scope of history as a field of study and profession in India:

Government Sector

Private Sector

NGOs & International Organizations

Conclusion

In this text, we examined the various career options after history studies in India, which offers many pathways for graduates, in both public,  private, and international sectors. There is a growing demand for specialized professionals in fields like research, cultural heritage, historical research, and education. Moreover, new and emerging fields include roles that intersect with technology. 

Due to new advancements, it is important that you upskill yourself to keep up with new technologies and developments that will be incorporated into every domain. At upGrad, we aim to help you prepare for a job-ready profile by providing you with flexible learning options, spanning across fields, be it data science, digital marketing, or management. So, if you would like to upgrade your profile, consider upskilling with our learning programs. 

Check out these upGrad courses that might interest you:

• Understanding Cultural and Its Various Components
• Best Research Methodology Courses
• Data Analysis Courses
• Complete Guide to Problem-Solving Skills course

And if you want expert guidance to navigate your higher education, you may book a free counseling session with upGrad and get personalized mentorship!

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