The Career
Historians are professionally-trained scholars who research, analyze and interpret the decisions and actions of the past in order to better understand prior choices, present circumstances and future possibilities. They explain and share their findings in books, articles, essays and presentations. Historians usually specialize in a particular locale, time period or field of study (social, political, economic, diplomatic or cultural history).
This social science enhances a person’s ability to think, reason and communicate effectively as well as systematically organize, evaluate and interpret information. Because employers value these traits, those seeking a career in history have a variety of options available to them.
History majors can pursue jobs in education, government, research, museums, galleries, market analysis, business, journalism, archival service and management. The majority of these fields, however, require at least a bachelor’s degree, if not a master’s or doctorate for more specialized positions.
Professional Traits
Those pursuing a career in this field should:
- Be committed to ongoing historical study
- Have solid problem-solving, critical-thinking communication skills
- Demonstrate high academics ethics
- Be collaborative and actively engaged in society
- Have systematic work habits
Employment Outlook
By 2020, the number of historian jobs nationwide is expected to increase by 18%, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. As of May 2012, the median annual earnings for these professionals was $52,480.
The four largest industries employing historians and their median salaries were:
| Federal Executive Branch |
$88,470 |
| Professional, Scientific and Technical Services |
$53,020 |
| State Government |
$52,490 |
| Local Government |
$37,430 |
The Program
ECC students who earn their Associate of Arts Degree in history, are prepared to enter an undergraduate major leading to further training and careers in this field. Students have several course options and electives available. Assuming appropriate placement scores, history is a twoyear degree, with flexibility to customize the program toward the student’s chosen career.
This academic plan consists of the 43-credit hour general education core required of all transfer degrees plus the necessary electives in history, civilization, geography and political science. In addition, the college provides various student activities, organizations and practicum experiences related to the discipline.
Admission Requirements
Students must have completed:
- High school diploma or the equivalent (documentation must be sent to the registration office)
- Application for admission
- A placement test as specified by the college (please note: some coursework requires minimum placement results)
Transfer Options
This curriculum is intended for students planning to transfer to a four-year institution. Many of the credits, particularly the general education electives earned with this degree, are accepted as transfer credits by four-year colleges and universities. These decisions are made solely by the bachelor degree-granting institution.
Students seeking to transfer should communicate often with their faculty advisors and the East Central College transfer advisor. They should also make early contact with the four-year institution of their choice regarding the transferability of ECC credits and coursework.
Accreditation
East Central College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
30 N. LaSalle St., Suite 2400
Chicago, Illinois 60602-2504
800-621-7440
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