Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
A Historian is a professional who studies and interprets past events, societies, and cultures. They examine historical documents, records, and artifacts to understand and chronicle the human past.
Education: Master's degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 3.1% (average)
Annual job openings: 300
Direct AI exposure: 32% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 68% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $77K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $43K per year | $57K per year | $77K per year | $100K per year | $132K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $26K above the national average. | ||||
Historians typically work in academic settings, museums, historical societies, government agencies, and cultural organizations. Their work environment may vary from offices and libraries to archives and historical sites, involving extensive research, analysis, and sometimes teaching or public presentations.
Historians are vital in preserving and interpreting the human past. Their research helps us understand how societies have evolved and provides context for current events and future developments. They must critically analyze sources, often challenging established narratives, and present their findings in an accessible and engaging manner.
This profession requires a deep passion for history, strong research skills, and the ability to think critically. Historians must be meticulous in their research, often spending extensive periods in archives and libraries, and proficient in synthesizing large amounts of information into coherent narratives.
The work of historians is not just academic; it has practical implications. Their research can inform public policy, education, and cultural understanding. Historians also play a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage and memory, contributing significantly to society's collective knowledge.
A master's degree or Ph.D. in history or a related field is often required for professional historian roles, amounting to 6-10 years of post-secondary education, including undergraduate study.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
