Historians
Historians research, analyze, and interpret the past using sources like government records, newspapers, photographs, interviews, and unpublished manuscripts. They work in universities, museums, archives, government agencies, and cultural institutions, where they uncover and explain historical events and patterns to advance understanding of how societies developed.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against historians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A historian might spend morning hours in an archive examining primary documents, cataloging findings, and taking notes. Afternoons often involve analyzing sources, writing reports or articles, and corresponding with colleagues about research. The work includes reading widely, organizing evidence, cross-referencing materials, attending seminars, and presenting findings. Projects can span months or years as historians build comprehensive interpretations from fragmentary historical records.
Who this work suits
Holland code ICA. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You enjoy detailed investigative work and uncovering patterns in complex information. You're organized, methodical, and prefer working with established systems and documented evidence rather than speculation. You find satisfaction in accuracy and precision, and you're drawn to projects that require patience, deep focus, and careful record-keeping.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a master’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- HISTORIAN · Air Force Special Operations Command · Cannon AFB, New Mexico · $89508–$116362
- HISTORIAN · Air Force Civilian Career Training · Multiple Locations · $50460–$77460
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $104,210 | $121,710 | $121,710 | — |
| Maryland | $83,470 | $120,580 | $152,730 | 50 |
| District of Columbia | $62,380 | $118,290 | $147,220 | 250 |
| Minnesota | $89,160 | $103,040 | $138,670 | 50 |
| Virginia | $78,700 | $101,920 | $139,420 | 180 |
| Washington | $81,330 | $99,720 | $116,210 | 30 |
| Oregon | $79,990 | $99,560 | $109,820 | 40 |
| California | $73,460 | $97,420 | $129,250 | 210 |
| Hawaii | $80,300 | $92,520 | $117,350 | 70 |
| Illinois | $83,490 | $89,670 | $89,680 | — |
| Louisiana | $65,660 | $80,620 | $82,400 | 60 |
| Nevada | $80,140 | $80,140 | $84,570 | — |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Heritage Interpreter (CHI) — National Association for Interpretation
- Certified Interpretive Planner (CIP) — National Association for Interpretation
- Certified Interpretive Manager (CIM) — National Association for Interpretation
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against historians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-3093.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.