Career Opportunities

Careers in History & Political Science

A degree in History or Political Science opens doors to careers in nearly every field. Employers value graduates who can think critically, communicate clearly, analyze complex issues, and understand the broader social and political context of today’s world.

Government agencies such as the National Park Service, CIA, FBI, and the U.S. House of Representatives employ historians and political scientists. Careers also include city management, policy analysis, consulting, research, editing, and intelligence work.

Beyond government, opportunities exist in business, banking, finance, media, nonprofit organizations, museums, philanthropy, and international development. Industries such as mineral extraction, international finance, and public utilities rely on professionals who understand political systems, legal frameworks, and historical trends.

In short, your field of interest—not your major alone—largely determines your career path and income potential. Increasingly, CEOs and industry leaders emphasize the value of a liberal arts education because it develops adaptable, creative thinkers who can communicate and lead in rapidly changing environments.

History

What Can I Do With a History Degree?

Only a small percentage of history majors become professional historians. Most pursue careers in law, education, business, journalism, public service, writing, archival work, research, and even entertainment.

A History degree develops essential skills that employers consistently seek:

Skills You Gain

Effective Writing – Clear, persuasive communication.
Critical Analysis – Evaluating evidence and solving problems.
Research – Investigating issues and synthesizing information.
Interdisciplinary Thinking – Approaching problems from multiple perspectives.
Curiosity – Lifelong learning and intellectual engagement.

Common Career Paths

Teaching (primary, secondary, and higher education)
Law and legal services
Journalism and public relations
Government and foreign service
Museum and archival work
Policy analysis
Library and information science
Business, banking, and finance
Cultural resource management and historic preservation

While the academic job market is competitive, history graduates thrive in fields that require research, writing, and strong reasoning skills.

Political Science

What Can I Do With a Political Science Degree?

Political Science majors pursue careers in law, diplomacy, public service, business, advocacy, research, and government at every level.

Students interested in international work often find opportunities with NGOs, the Peace Corps, the United Nations, the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, and foreign service roles.

Skills You Gain

Effective Writing and Communication
Critical and Analytical Thinking
Research and Policy Evaluation
Leadership and Public Engagement
Teamwork and Strategic Decision-Making

Career Paths Include:

Policy Analyst
Diplomat or Foreign Service Officer
Lawyer or Paralegal
Legislative Staffer
Campaign Worker
Political Consultant
Journalist or Correspondent
Intelligence Analyst
Lobbyist or Organizer
City Manager
Public Relations Director
Human Rights Advocate
Urban Policy Planner
Business Administrator
Financial Planner
Social Worker

Notable History Majors

John F. Kennedy – President of the United States
Richard Nixon – President of the United States
Joe Biden – Vice President of the United States
Sonia Sotomayor – Supreme Court Justice
Anthony M. Kennedy – Supreme Court Justice
Lee Iacocca – CEO of Chrysler
Carly Fiorina – CEO of Hewlett-Packard
Larry David – Writer and Producer
Conan O’Brien – Television Host
Wolf Blitzer – Journalist

Notable Political Science Majors

Barack Obama – President of the United States
Gerald Ford – President of the United States
Condoleezza Rice – Secretary of State
Hillary Rodham Clinton – U.S. Senator and Secretary of State
Henry Kissinger – National Security Advisor
Nancy Pelosi – Speaker of the House
Anderson Cooper – Journalist
Rachel Maddow – Journalist
Francis Fukuyama – Political Scientist

Why It Matters

History and Political Science degrees provide more than content knowledge. They cultivate adaptable thinkers, persuasive communicators, and ethical leaders prepared to engage a complex and changing world.