There are many opportunities for history majors to work in journalism. As so simply yet effectively stated by the American Historical Association, “today, as the means of communication multiply, the opportunities for the involvement of historians in communicating interpretations of the past also multiply”. Want to know more about the numerous opportunities in journalism for history majors? Here are just a few examples of the many opportunities.
Journalist
Becoming a reporter, or journalist, is entirely possible for today’s history major. As a history major, one is inherently inclined in the areas of:
- critical thinking and investigation
- effective writing and literature
- diverse research approaches
- a drive to search for the truth
These skills are also highly coveted in the daily duties of the effective journalist. In many cases, simply majoring in history will not single-handedly open such doors. It may often require some side studies in journalism. In other instances though, this major and other proofs of ability may be sufficient for the hiring publication company.
Documentary Editor
Documentaries represent an important slice of the journalistic and media realms. Those schooled in history make for the perfect editors within such endeavors. Historical documentaries are rich with info and claims needing historians’ approval and verification. In addition, documentaries of non-historical subjects may still rely on many historic facts and figures to establish the overall message and facts being purveyed. History majors fit quite fluidly into this realm of work.
Writer
Being a writer is another great application for your history degree. Also helpful here is the fact that today’s options in the writing arena are virtually limitless. You may write a book on your own analysis of an era or event. You can write theoretical proposals on alternate endings had certain historic events gone differently. Or possibly write for a company by assignment or even freelance. The options here are many. A history grad is often aligned to do quite well here if you want to follow the writing path.
Travel/Tourism Publications
The world is full of destinations and organized events that involve history either directly or indirectly. The various providers of these events and points of interest commonly call on the services of history gurus. These history experts create publications to represent these places and happenings.
A preserved tourism destination crucial to the Civil War,for example, may regularly produce publications regarding the destination’s offerings and historic facts. The many historical fairs the United States each year also frequently require the history expert’s talents. The history expert helps create publications and other media to patrons as well as the public.
Related Resource: 20 Best Deals on Small Colleges for History Buffs
Surprisingly to some, there are in fact many careers in journalism-related work that rely on the knowledge and abilities of graduates such as history majors. The above venues are just a few examples of the many opportunities available in this area. For more career guidance and ideas regarding opportunities in journalism for history majors, visit the American Historical Association’s resource guide on the matter.