What can I do with a major in History ?

History, as a basic liberal arts discipline, is interrelated with the other social sciences and provides the student with numerous options for professional development. These options include graduate studies and research, social research, teaching, law, and governmental service among others. In addition, the Alvernia College program in Social Studies provides academic preparation necessary for application for teacher certification in Pennsylvania.

Students considering a major in this liberal arts area may want to ask themselves if they are committed to working in the field of history: that is, actually working with historical information and issues at libraries, museums, classrooms and the like. OR is the information of history simply the training ground for building the skills of analysis, communication, critical thinking, problem solving and research, which can be utilized by a wide variety of employers in a host of industries.

While this decision does not need to be made prior to beginning a course of study in history, questions regarding course choices, research opportunities, internship credits and graduate school will be impacted differently by each focus or goal.

• Ability to concentrate for long periods of time
• Critical analysis
• Objectivity and perspective
• Appreciation of past events
• Research skills
• Proficiency in reading, writing, and research
• Intellectual capacity
• Good concentration
• Ability to collect and organize data
• Strong communication skills
• Observation skills
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to integrate and present complex data

• Integrity
• Independence
• Objectivity
• Curiosity
• Variety
• Self-starting
• Reflective and philosophical nature
• Analytical mind
• Interest in reading and writing

• Travel
• Keeping a journal
• Visiting libraries, museums, or exhibits
• Volunteering at a historical society, library, or museum
• Working for campus publications (newspaper, literary journal, yearbook)
• Participation in debates
• Participation in theatrical productions
• Participation in political campaigns or lobbying efforts
• Fundraising
• Attending movies, theatrical productions, or lectures

• Get experience in student government
• Plan on attending graduate or professional school
• Take courses in business, communication, education
• Develop or enhance ability to speak foreign language(s)
• Gain internship experience in government agencies
• If interested in teaching, obtain certification to teach in your state
• Strengthen computer skills
• Become familiar with public history