GraduateSmart
GraduateSmart
Researches and interprets the past from primary sources, working in government, museums, archives, historical societies and research organizations.
$42,730
Lower reported wage
$76,750
Median
$131,810
Upper reported wage
Annual U.S. salaries. Actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience. The lower and upper figures do not represent starting and senior salaries.

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Create free account →A bachelor’s may support some entry roles, not every historian position. [1]
Search CareerOneStop by occupation and state, then confirm the rules with the issuing agency. Coverage is incomplete; an empty result does not mean no license is required.
About license data coverageAsk whether any internship, field placement, or supervised training in your chosen route is paid; arrangements vary. [1]
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modernstates.orgCLEP History of the United States I
3 credits · History
$1,703
saved
CLEP History of the United States II
3 credits · History
$1,703
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CLEP Social Sciences and History
3 credits · Social Studies
$1,703
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CLEP Western Civilization I
3 credits · History
$1,703
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U.S. career guide. Program, employer, and state requirements can differ.
Historians (19-3093): BLS OEWS May 2025 annual United States median (50th percentile) $76,750. The lower and upper figures are the published 10th and 90th percentiles. They describe the wage distribution, not starting or senior pay. The existing graduate-level career preparation and undergraduate-major relationship are retained. Wage figures reviewed October 27, 2026. Source: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/historians.htm . Employment and growth retain their existing source periods and were not refreshed in this wage review.
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Compare tuition after aid, required supplies and exams, travel, and any unpaid training time for the route you choose.
Planning questions: request a written estimate from each program or sponsor. A total cost has not been verified here.
A related major can be preparation; it does not by itself qualify you for the career.
Interpret historical evidence and communicate findings. [1]
Museums, archives, government, and research organizations. [1]
Usually full time; public institutions may require weekends. [1]
Careful source evaluation and precise writing are essential. [1]
Further study can support specialized research opportunities. [1]
These are possible directions. Promotion timing and pay depend on the role and employer.