How to become a historian

Pathways to this career

1. Become a historian by completing an arts degree, majoring in history. Seeking professional recognition upon graduation? Consider pursuing an honours year.
2. If you've already begun your journey into antiquity, consider a postgraduate degree in history to explore a specific topic or field in more detail.
3. Seek out placements and internships. Contact museums, heritage associations and government institutions, and gain unrivalled experience.
4. Research any industry associations to stay-up-to date with the latest in your chosen field of expertise.

What does a historian do?

Duties and tasks

• Cobble together disparate sources to formulate a coherent narrative of past events.
• Listen to recordings and transcripts from primary sources.
• Teach classes on history at the school, college, or university level.
• Work as expert consultants for museums and historical fairs.
• Work with historical resources like newspapers, journals and archives to assemble a picture of any given historical event.
• Write scholarly articles for publish in academic journals and present findings at conferences.

Industry bodies

• Australian Council of Professional Historians Associations (ACPHA)
• The Professional Historians Association (NSW & ACT)
• The Professional Historians Association (Queensland)
• The Professional Historians Association (SA)
• The Professional Historians Association (Victoria & Tasmania)

Related jobs

• Archaeologist
• Art historian
• Cultural heritage officer
• Economic historian
• Geographical historian
• Museum curator
• Research officer