FAQ
Historian FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a historian.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a historian: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about historians
Where do historians work?
Government agencies, museums, historic sites and companies.
Do I need a master’s?
Usually.
Is the field small?
Yes.
How much does a historian make?
The median annual wage for historians was $76,750 ($36.90 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $42,730 and the highest 10% earned more than $131,810.
How long does it take to become a historian?
Most people need about 2 years after a bachelor’s of training. A master’s degree in history or public history is typical.
Do you need a degree to be a historian?
Yes. BLS lists a master's degree as the typical entry-level education.
Is historian a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +3.0% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 300 openings each year. Upsides include meaningful work; a common challenge is that small field.
What skills does a historian need?
Key technical skills include historical research, archival methods, writing, and oral history. Employers also value curiosity, storytelling, and attention to detail.
What certifications are available for historians?
Common credentials include Master’s in history, Ph.D., Archives certificate, and Historic preservation certificate. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Historian fit quiz, compare with History Professor, or explore Historian training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 19-3093 (Historians).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Historians (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.