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What are history majors?

History programs can vary in terms of their focus, but all typically offer students the opportunity to learn about different periods and cultures through the study of history. Programs may also offer specializations in specific areas of interest, such as American history or European history. Students who complete a history program can often find careers as historians, teachers, or museum curators.

How much do history majors make?

History graduates typically make between $44,000 and $115,000 per year. The national average of reported salaries for history degrees is $70,000. The highest paying major within history is General history with an average salary of $71,000. The lowest paying major within history is Art history with an average salary of $62,000.
History majorsAverage salarySalary
General history$71,000
Art history$62,000
Historic preservation and conservationNo data
Music history and literatureNo data

Popular history majors by degrees awarded

On average, around 40,700 students obtain a bachelor's degree or associate degree in all history fields each year. In 2021, the most popular major within history was general history with 25,703 students obtaining a bachelor's degree and 2,559 students obtaining an associate degree. The least popular major was historic preservation and conservation with 108 students obtaining a bachelor's degree and 6 students obtaining an associate degree. Overall, history is a relatively popular area of study.