Career Options In History: Top 15 Exciting Career Opportunities for History Students

Did you know?  The demand for history professionals is rising fast in India, driven by fields like heritage management, digital archiving, film research, and public policy. With the global heritage tourism market expected to grow from USD 587.1 billion in 2023 to USD 813.5 billion by 2032, career opportunities for history graduates are expanding rapidly. 

Studying history lets you understand the past better and your relationship with it. It opens the door to a deeper understanding of cultures, societies, and ideologies, allowing you to preserve the past for future generations. A degree in history doesn't just teach you about dates and events — it sharpens your critical thinking, research, and analytical skills, setting you up for diverse history career options.

The scope of history in India today goes beyond traditional academics. In this article, we’ll explore various careers in history, from law, media, and journalism to politics, social activism, and literary 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.

Looking for the best career options after 12th Arts? Watch this video to explore top opportunities and make an informed decision for your future! 

Top Career Options after 12th Arts

Top Career Options In History That You Can Opt for in 2025

There are a number of exciting career options in history that you can pursue if you have a passion for the past and want to build a strong future. Today, the scope of history in India is broader than ever. 

Take a look at some of the most popular history-related jobs and growing history job opportunities to kickstart a rewarding career in this fascinating field.

Job Role	Average Salary (INR)
Writer	₹2.04 L - ₹4.56 L per year
Journalist	₹2.40 L - ₹4.80 L per year
Librarian	₹2.40 L - ₹4.80 L per year
Archaeologist	₹2.00 L - ₹5.00 L per year
Archivist	₹2.64 L - ₹5.88 L per year
Historian	₹77k  - ₹84k per year
Heritage Manager	₹3.00 L - ₹6.50 L per year
History Educator	₹3.36 L - ₹6.00 L per year
Lawyer	₹3.00 L - ₹12.00 L per year
Researcher	₹5.00 L - ₹11.70 L per year
Civil Servant	₹5.76 L - ₹6.24 L per year
Political Analyst	₹5.00 L - ₹10.00 L per year
Editor	₹4.00 L - ₹9.00 L per year
Museum Curator	₹9.00 L per year
Genealogist	₹8.00 L- ₹15.00 L per year

Source: Glassdoor, Indeed

Note: The salaries mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the location, experience, and employer.

Also Read: Best Career Options in Sociology

15. Writer 

A career in writing offers an exciting opportunity to explore various aspects of history, culture, and society while contributing to historical documentation, storytelling, and content creation. Writers in the history field can specialize in research articles, books, blogs, and other forms of media that connect the past with the present. With a growing demand for history-related content in books, online platforms, and educational institutions, writers have numerous avenues to explore as part of history career options.

Key Responsibilities:

• Research and write content related to historical events, figures, and eras.
• Create educational materials, articles, and historical documentation for various platforms.
• Contribute to the publication of historical books, journals, and articles.
• Develop engaging content for websites, blogs, and social media related to historical themes.
• Collaborate with historians, museums, and educational institutions to create accurate and informative materials.

Ensure the quality and accuracy of historical content while adhering to editorial guidelines.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in History, English Literature, Journalism, or related fields.
• Master’s degree in History, Journalism, or a specialized area for advanced opportunities.
• Strong writing, research, and editing skills.
• Ability to understand and communicate historical events, narratives, and trends effectively.

Experience with history-related jobs like content writing, historical documentation, or editorial work.

Ready to Elevate Your Writing? Enroll in this free course now and master the art of writing and editing for print media. Start your journey today!
 

14. Journalist 

A career in journalism offers an exciting path for those passionate about history and its impact on the present. Journalists focusing on historical topics can explore past events, figures, and cultural narratives, contributing to informed public discourse through articles, news reports, and documentaries. With a growing interest in history-related topics, journalists have an opportunity to delve into various aspects of history while informing and educating the audience. History career opportunities in journalism are expanding across traditional media outlets, online platforms, and news agencies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Research and report on historical events, figures, and cultural movements.
• Write compelling news articles, features, and opinion pieces that connect the past to current events.
• Produce historical documentaries or segments for television, radio, or online platforms.
• Develop content for historical archives, news publications, and digital outlets.
• Collaborate with historians, museums, and other experts to ensure factual accuracy in content.
• Maintain ethical standards while writing historical stories for mass consumption.
• Stay updated on history-related news and trends to create timely, relevant content.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Journalism, History, or related fields.
• Master’s degree in Journalism or History for advanced career opportunities.
• Strong writing, research, and analytical skills.
• Ability to interpret historical data and present it to a broad audience.
• Experience in history-related jobs such as content writing, journalism, or editorial positions.

Also Read: Master's in Journalism Career Path: Top Jobs, Salaries & Future Prospects

Top Recruiters for History Career Options

With a wide array of career options in history, professionals can find rewarding roles in both the government and non-government sectors. Whether you're interested in historical research, preservation, education, or content creation, history job opportunities are available across various industries. 

Here are some top recruiters in both sectors, reflecting the growing history scope in India and history-related career opportunities.

Government Sector

1. Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) – Offers excellent careers in history for archaeologists and historians, particularly in excavation, research, and conservation projects.

2. National Museum Institute, New Delhi – Provides history-related jobs for curators, conservators, and museum professionals involved in historical research and preservation.

3. Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR) – Recruits historians for research and academic positions to further India’s historical documentation and analysis.
4. Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS) – Offers teaching roles in history at various schools, promoting the education of history to the younger generation.
5. National Heritage Agencies – These government bodies hire historians, curators, and heritage managers for roles related to the preservation and promotion of India’s cultural heritage.
6. UNESCO – While an international organization, UNESCO offers positions related to history, cultural preservation, and education, with a global impact.

Non-Government Sector

1. The Indian Express – A leading newspaper that hires content writers, editors, and journalists with a focus on historical topics for articles, research, and stories.

2. Hindustan Times – Another major media outlet offering opportunities for history graduates to contribute to articles, blogs, and historical features.

3. Private Museums and Heritage Organizations – Institutions such as the Salar Jung Museum and the Bombay Natural History Society offer roles for curators, educators, and conservationists in preserving India’s rich historical legacy.

4. Publishing Houses – Renowned publishers like Penguin India and Oxford University Press are key recruiters for editors and content writers specializing in historical subjects.

5. NGOs and Think Tanks – Organizations like INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage) hire historians for research, documentation, and advocacy in the field of cultural heritage.

6. Digital Content Creation Platforms – Online education platforms such as upGrad and Coursera offer opportunities for historians to create, write, and edit historical content for a global audience.

How to Choose the Right Career in History?

Choosing the right career in history requires a deep understanding of your interests, strengths, and the vast career options in history available to you. Whether you're drawn to research, education, preservation, or content creation, it's crucial to identify which area of history excites you the most.

 In India, the history scope in India is expanding with numerous history-related job opportunities, ranging from archaeological research to digital content creation. Here's how you can choose the perfect career path:

13. Librarian

A career as a librarian offers unique history career opportunities for those interested in preserving knowledge and ensuring easy access to historical information. Librarians specializing in history manage and curate vast collections of books, journals, manuscripts, and other historical documents. 

They play a key role in maintaining archives, supporting educational institutions, and facilitating research. The scope of history-related jobs for librarians is vast, particularly in libraries, museums, and educational institutions, both in India and globally.

Key Responsibilities:

• Organize, catalog, and manage historical collections in libraries, museums, and archives.
• Assist researchers and students in locating and utilizing historical resources.
• Maintain digital archives and databases of historical documents.
• Provide educational materials related to historical events and figures.
• Develop programs and workshops that promote historical knowledge and research.
• Collaborate with historians and educational institutions to ensure accurate preservation of historical records.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Library Science, History, or related fields.
• Master’s degree in Library Science or History for advanced positions.
• Strong organizational and research skills.
• Experience with digital archives and historical resource management.
• Ability to assist in historical research and connect individuals to relevant materials.

Further Read: Salary Of MA History: Various Career Options & Salary Details of MA History Students [2024]

12. Archaeologist

For those passionate about uncovering the past, a career in archaeology offers exciting history job opportunities. Archaeologists explore and study human history through the excavation and analysis of artifacts, ruins, and ancient sites. 

Whether in India or abroad, archaeologists are vital in interpreting the physical remnants of past civilizations, contributing to a deeper understanding of history. With an increasing demand for historical research and preservation, the scope of archaeology in India and around the world is expanding.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct fieldwork to excavate and analyze historical artifacts and sites.
• Research ancient civilizations, cultural practices, and historical events through material culture.
• Work with museums, universities, and historical organizations to preserve findings.
• Write reports and research papers on archaeological discoveries.
• Collaborate with historians, anthropologists, and other experts to interpret findings.
• Contribute to the education and public awareness of historical sites and artifacts.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Archaeology, History, or related fields.
• Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Archaeology or History for advanced research opportunities.
• Strong analytical, research, and fieldwork skills.
• Ability to work in various terrains and conditions for excavation projects.
• Experience in historical research or archaeology-related internships.

Archaeologists play a vital role in educating the public and raising awareness about our shared history. If you're ready to enhance your skillset, Enroll in upGrad’s free course on Modern Public Relations and gain essential skills to manage public perception and run impactful campaigns that highlight historical discoveries.

11. Archivist

Archivists are the custodians of history, responsible for preserving and organizing historical documents, photographs, and records that form the backbone of our collective memory. As history-related career opportunities continue to grow, archivists are in demand to ensure that important historical data remains accessible and well-preserved.

Key Responsibilities:

• Preserve and catalog historical records, documents, and digital files.
• Organize archives in libraries, museums, or corporate settings for easy retrieval.
• Assist researchers, historians, and educators in accessing historical materials.
• Digitize physical archives to create accessible online databases.
• Ensure the proper handling, storage, and preservation of sensitive historical materials.
• Collaborate with institutions to create public exhibitions and educational resources.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in History, Library Science, or related fields.
• Master’s degree in Archival Studies, History, or Information Science for advanced roles.
• Strong organizational, research, and preservation skills.
• Knowledge of archival methods, digital preservation, and historical documentation.

Experience in history-related jobs such as research, library science, or archival work.

If you're looking to become an archivist, a career in this unique and emerging field offers great potential. Here are the top prep books to help you prepare for the role:

• "Arranging and Describing Archives and Manuscripts" by Meissner and Greene: A comprehensive guide to arranging and describing archival materials.
• "Archives: Principles and Practices" by Millar: Explores archival theory, ethics, and practical considerations.

10. Historian

A historian is more than just a scholar of the past—historians research, analyze, and interpret events, people, and cultures to provide insight into how history shapes the present and future. With increasing interest in understanding societal development and global movements, historians have diverse career options, especially within educational institutions, museums, government agencies, and research organizations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Research and write about historical events, figures, and cultural movements.
• Analyze historical data to uncover patterns, trends, and insights.
• Publish books, articles, and research papers in academic journals and media outlets.
• Work with museums, educational institutions, and government agencies to educate the public on historical topics.
• Develop educational programs and historical documentaries for diverse audiences.
• Advise on historical accuracy in films, documentaries, and educational content.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in History, Archaeology, or related fields.
• Master’s degree or Ph.D. in History for research and teaching opportunities.
• Strong research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Deep understanding of historical periods, figures, and events.
• Experience in history-related jobs such as research, teaching, or museum work.

Did you know? 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, historian job opportunities are expected to grow by 6% from 2023 to 2033. 

In 2022, nearly 18% of history graduates in the U.S. worked in educational instruction and library occupations, while another 18% were employed in management roles. Additionally, 11% pursued careers in legal occupations, and 10% entered business and financial operations.

You may have a look at upGrad’s Free Soft Skills Courses to master crucial skills required in this field!

9. Heritage Manager

A heritage manager oversees the preservation and promotion of cultural and historical sites, ensuring that heritage remains protected for future generations. This career offers diverse history-related job opportunities, particularly within museums, government institutions, and non-profit organizations. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage and conserve historical sites, artifacts, and monuments.
• Develop programs to promote public engagement with heritage sites.
• Work with governmental and non-governmental organizations to secure funding for heritage conservation.
• Collaborate with archaeologists, historians, and conservationists to ensure accuracy in preservation efforts.
• Oversee the development of educational materials and exhibits for visitors.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in History, Archaeology, Museum Studies, or related fields.
• Master’s degree in Heritage Management or a specialized area for advanced opportunities.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• In-depth knowledge of cultural and historical preservation methods.

8. History Educator

History educators play a key role in shaping how students understand the past and its impact on the present. Whether working in schools, colleges, or educational institutions, history educators contribute significantly to history-related career opportunities. With the increasing demand for history education in India, the scope for history educators continues to grow.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and deliver history lessons for students at various educational levels.
• Create engaging and educational materials that make historical events accessible and relevant.
• Assess and evaluate student progress and understanding of historical topics.
• Organize extracurricular activities, such as history clubs or field trips, to enhance learning.
• Stay updated on the latest historical research and educational methodologies.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in History, Education, or related fields.
• Master’s degree in History or Education for teaching at higher levels.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Passion for teaching and sharing historical knowledge.

7. Lawyer

Lawyers specializing in history or cultural heritage law are vital in protecting and interpreting historical documents, artifacts, and sites. History-related jobs for lawyers include working with government agencies, museums, and non-profits to safeguard cultural property and historical resources. The scope of careers in history for lawyers is growing, particularly in sectors like intellectual property, conservation, and human rights.

Ready to protect your creative work? Enroll today in the upGrad free course and gain essential knowledge on Intellectual Property Rights!

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide legal counsel on cultural property and heritage preservation issues.
• Advocate for the protection of historical sites, documents, and artifacts.
• Handle cases related to historical research, archives, and ownership disputes.
• Work with museums, universities, and government bodies to ensure compliance with heritage laws.
• Draft and review legal contracts related to historical research and preservation.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Law (LLB) with a focus on cultural heritage or intellectual property.
• Master’s degree in Law (LLM) with a specialization in history-related legal fields.
• Strong research, negotiation, and legal analysis skills.
• Familiarity with international and national heritage laws.

6. Researcher

A researcher in history focuses on uncovering new insights, analyzing historical documents, and contributing to the academic understanding of past events. History researchers have ample career opportunities in academic institutions, museums, and government agencies. The growing interest in historical analysis in India and beyond means the demand for skilled researchers is steadily rising.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct primary and secondary research on historical events, figures, and trends.
• Analyze and interpret historical data and findings.
• Publish research papers and articles in academic journals and books.
• Collaborate with historians, archaeologists, and other researchers to expand knowledge.
• Assist in curating historical exhibits and providing expert analysis.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in History, Research, or related fields.
• Master’s or Ph.D. in History or a specialized research area for advanced opportunities.
• Strong analytical thinking, writing, and research skills.
• Experience in academic research or working with historical archives.

5. Civil Servant

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.

Key Responsibilities:

• 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.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in History, Public Administration, or related fields.
• Master’s degree in History, Public Policy, or a related field for senior positions.
• Strong leadership, communication, and analytical skills.
• Familiarity with government functions and history-related regulations.

Did you know?

The age limit for Civil Services Exams is 21-32 years for General candidates, 21-35 years for OBC, and up to 37 years for SC/ST candidates, with age relaxations based on category.

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

4. Political Analyst

A Political Analyst specializes in examining historical political trends, events, and their impact on current and future political scenarios. By studying political history, a political analyst helps shape policy recommendations and provides insights into governance, elections, and public affairs. This role is perfect for those interested in understanding the interplay between history and modern politics.

 Key Responsibilities:

• Analyze and interpret historical political data and trends.
• Research past political events to predict future political shifts.
• Provide insights into policy-making and governance decisions.
• Work with political think tanks, governments, and media to present findings.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in History, Political Science, or related fields.
• Master's degree or higher in Political Science or History for advanced opportunities.
• Strong research, analytical, and communication skills.

Read More: Career Options in Political Science

3. Editor

An Editor in the field of history focuses on reviewing and refining historical content for books, journals, articles, and media publications. This role requires an in-depth understanding of historical contexts and the ability to present complex historical information. It’s a great fit for those passionate about writing, history, and media.

 Key Responsibilities:

• Review and edit history-related content for accuracy and clarity.
• Ensure historical sources are properly cited and researched.
• Collaborate with historians and writers to publish educational and informative content.
• Maintain editorial standards while keeping content accessible to the public.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in History, English Literature, Journalism, or a related field.
• Strong writing, editing, and research skills.
• Experience in publishing or media organizations is an advantage.

Ready to enhance your editorial skills and take your career to the next level? Enroll in the upGrad Generative AI Mastery Certificate for Content Creation now and master the future of content editing!

2. 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.

 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.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in History, Archaeology, or Museum Studies.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Experience in museum management or collections care is often required

Interesting Fact:
Did you know that the Louvre Museum in Paris, one of the largest and most visited museums in the world, houses over 380,000 objects? Museum curators play a vital role in managing, preserving, and showcasing such vast collections, ensuring that every item tells a story and is preserved for future generations.

1. Genealogist

A Genealogist specializes in tracing family histories and ancestry, uncovering the personal histories that connect individuals to the broader historical narrative. This career option is ideal for those who enjoy research and storytelling while helping people uncover their roots.

 Key Responsibilities:

• Research and document family histories, lineage, and ancestry.
• Utilize historical records, archives, and databases to trace genealogical lines.
• Provide consultation and family history reports for clients.
• Educate the public about the importance of genealogical research.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in History, Genealogy, or a related field.
• Strong research and analytical skills.
• Certification in Genealogy or related fields is a plus.

Interesting Facts: 

Genealogists in India preserve history through detailed records called pothis, which track births, deaths, marriages, and key events. These records have been crucial in settling legal matters, like property disputes. In 2023, a district court in Madhya Pradesh used a family genealogy record (patiya) to resolve a property issue, even without an official adoption certificate.

1. Identify Your Passion – Explore different areas like archaeology, education, curating, or history writing. This will help you decide whether you want to work in a museum, write for historical journals, or teach history.
2. Assess Your Skills – Determine which skills you have that align with specific careers in history. Are you analytical, creative, or enjoy public speaking? These can guide you toward research, content creation, or teaching roles.
3. Consider Future Growth – Look into the history career opportunities in India and abroad. With growing demand for historical knowledge in education, museums, media, and online platforms, there are many history job opportunities available.

Pursue 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.

Top Skills for a Successful 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:

1. Research Skills – In-depth research is foundational for a successful career in history. Historians must be able to analyze primary and secondary sources critically and extract relevant historical data.
2. Writing and Editing – Clear and concise writing is essential, especially for historians who want to publish articles, books, or content for educational and media platforms.
3. Communication – Whether you're teaching history in schools or giving presentations in museums, strong verbal communication skills are necessary to engage audiences and convey historical knowledge effectively.
4. Attention to Detail – Precision is key when it comes to analyzing historical records or curating exhibits in museums. The ability to spot small but significant details can distinguish great historians.
5. Technology Proficiency – Digital tools and databases are increasingly used in history-related jobs. Familiarity with digital archiving, historical data analysis software, and online content management is becoming more important.
6. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving – History often involves complex issues that require thoughtful analysis. Being able to interpret historical events and trends with a critical perspective is vital.

Enhance your critical thinking and analytical skills with upGrad’s free Complete Guide to Problem-Solving Skills course. Develop practical strategies for addressing complex issues and making informed decisions in psychological practice.

Conclusion

In 2025, a career in history presents a wealth of opportunities across various fields, from research and education to curating and preservation. With the increasing focus on cultural heritage, historical research, and education, professionals are in high demand to preserve and document the past. upGrad’s history programs equip you with the necessary skills and expertise to excel in these fields, whether you are interested in research, archival work, or content creation.

upGrad’s courses offer hands-on training, mentorship, and industry insights to help you build expertise in areas such as archaeology, history teaching, museum curation, and more. These programs also focus on emotional intelligence, research skills, and critical thinking, all crucial for a successful career in history.

Top courses to enhance your history career include:

• Best Research Methodology Course 
• Understanding Cultural and Its Various Components
• Data Analysis Course for research purposes

Additionally, upGrad provides personalized career counseling, helping you navigate your career path and discover the best history job opportunities. upGrad’s history programs will help you unlock a range of history-related career opportunities.