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 History Professor is an academic expert who teaches and conducts research in history at a college or university level. They specialize in a range of historical periods, regions, and themes, imparting knowledge and fostering critical thinking about the past.
Education: Doctoral or professional degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 1.3% (below average)
Annual job openings: 1,700
Direct AI exposure: 36% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 82% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $84K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $48K per year | $64K per year | $84K per year | $112K per year | $162K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $33K above the national average. | ||||
History Professors typically work in university and college settings. Their work environment includes classrooms, lecture halls, libraries, and offices. They may also engage in field research, attend academic conferences, and participate in public speaking or historical preservation activities.
History Professors play a crucial role in preserving and interpreting the past. They engage students with various historical perspectives, teaching them to critically analyze events, patterns, and narratives. Through their research, they contribute to the collective understanding of history, often challenging existing interpretations or uncovering new facets of past events.
The profession is intellectually stimulating, requiring a deep passion for history and strong research skills. Professors must stay current with historiographical trends and methodologies. They often balance teaching with research, striving to inspire students while advancing their scholarly pursuits.
A career as a History Professor is rewarding for those passionate about history and education. It offers the opportunity to delve deeply into historical subjects, shape young minds, and contribute to academic discourse. The role also involves a commitment to lifelong learning and an ongoing exploration of the past.
The role generally requires a Ph.D. in history, which can take 5-7 years to complete following undergraduate studies. Some institutions may hire professors with a master's degree for certain positions, particularly in community colleges.
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.
