How to Find Jobs With a History Degree

A history degree is not the useless liberal arts degree many may claim. Instead it is a degree with versatility. People with history degrees will need to be flexible but focused about their career paths and may need to work a little to find jobs with a history degree. Here's how to find jobs with a history degree.

Instructions

1. Know what you plan to do. The beauty of a history degree is that it does not tie the degree-holder to one specific career path. This benefit can be a downfall as well, which is why you must have a clear idea of what you would like to do following graduation. Focus your job search based on the end result you want.

2. Take supplemental classes. History degrees leave open enough electives to permit you to take a couple of courses in another field. Take business courses if you plan to enter real estate. Computer sciences courses can help if your plan is to work with educational software. Beef up your degree with supplemental work.

3. Consider graduate school. Many jobs that require a history degree, such as archivists and preservationists, also demand someone with a master's degree. Do not discount going to graduate school as a way to improve your chances of finding a job with a history degree.

4. Format your resume. Your resume may not be typical for samples you find. You need to show what hard skills you have. While your degree is important, your experience and research capabilities are equally important. Showcase them on your resume.

5. Write a bang-up cover letter. Because your resume will be similar to so many other people, you need to state your case in your cover letter. Point out the research project you completed and published or the fund-raising effort you led. Be clear about why you would be the best person for the job and how your degree helps you with the intangible qualities needed to succeed.