Disclosure: The Graduate Samaritan is a free independent blog supported by its readers; this post may contain affiliate links that may earn a tiny commission to help the blog sustain itself, thank you for supporting this independent blog! (full disclaimer here)
When considering a History degree in the UK, one of the most common questions is: is it worth it?
For some people, the answer is a quick no, because they imagine history graduates stuck in low-paying museum jobs. For others, it’s a resounding yes — because this degree develops some of the most transferable skills out there.
The truth? As with most degrees, the value of a history degree depends on how you use it.
In this article, we’ll break down the reality of studying history in the UK: from what you’ll study, to career prospects, to how much you can really earn after graduating.
📜 Why Choose a History Degree?
A History degree isn’t just about memorising kings, queens, or ancient battles. It’s about understanding how past events shape the world today — from politics and law to culture and international relations.
Some students are drawn in by childhood fascination with ancient civilisations or world wars, while others are more interested in how history connects to modern issues like diplomacy or economics. Either way, the subject offers endless opportunities for exploration and critical thinking.
👉 According to UCAS, history is one of the UK’s most popular humanities degrees, and employers value the analysis, research, and communication skills graduates develop.
⏳ Does History Ever Get Old?
Not at all. History is constantly evolving. Every year, new discoveries, interpretations, and debates emerge that reshape how we understand the past. Think of it like a living subject — a tree that keeps growing branches.
And far from being “outdated,” history is deeply connected to today’s challenges. Whether it’s understanding the roots of international conflict, analysing economic cycles, or shaping political decisions, history plays a vital role in shaping the present — and the future.
🇬🇧 Is a History Degree Really Worth It in the UK?
Here’s the big question: is history a safe investment of your time and money?
Critics argue that history degrees have limited career prospects. But this is misleading. While not every graduate becomes a historian or museum curator, the skills gained in history are highly transferable to fields like law, policy, business, consulting, and media.
Employers consistently highlight the value of critical thinking, research ability, and persuasive communication — all core outcomes of a history degree.
👉 In fact, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) reports strong demand across UK industries for roles requiring analytical and communication skills, with many humanities graduates thriving in these areas.
🕵️ The Myths About History Degrees
Let’s debunk some of the most common myths about a History Degree (not) being worth it:
- “History leads to no jobs.” False — graduates work in law, government, business, media, and more.
- “You can only work in museums.” Wrong again — while heritage roles exist, the majority of grads move into broader fields.
- “History is outdated.” On the contrary, understanding the past is critical for predicting and shaping the future.
👉 Recommended: Want to Develop a Successful Mindset for Uni? Check Out the Best Books Every Student Should Read.
🎓 What Will You Study in a History Degree?
History at university goes way beyond what you studied in school. Instead of just memorising facts, you’ll analyse sources, challenge narratives, and explore different perspectives.
Most UK degrees start with broad surveys:
- Medieval Europe,
- Early modern Britain,
- The rise and fall of empires,
- Twentieth-century global conflicts.
As you progress, you can specialise. Maybe you’ll dive into the Cold War, the history of gender and society, African independence movements, or even digital history.
Many unis also offer modules in historical methods (how historians research) and historiography (how interpretations change over time).
👉 The flexibility means you can shape your degree around your interests, whether you’re fascinated by ancient civilisations or modern geopolitics.
🌍 Joint History Degrees: Expanding Horizons
Not sure if you want to focus only on history? Many universities offer joint honours. You can combine history with:
- Politics, for careers in government and diplomacy.
- Economics, for business or financial analysis.
- Philosophy, for critical reasoning and ethics.
- Languages, for international careers.
These combinations can make you more versatile and open up extra career pathways!
💼 Career Opportunities for History Graduates
One of the biggest misconceptions is that history grads are “stuck” in heritage roles. In reality, they work across a wide variety of industries.
- Heritage & Museums – curators, archivists, or education officers help preserve and interpret the past.
- Government & Policy-Making – researchers and analysts inform decisions on domestic and international issues.
- Law & Legal Fields – many go into law school or paralegal roles, using their research and argumentation skills.
- Business & Consulting – history grads often excel in strategy and analysis roles at major firms.
- Media & Journalism – from documentaries to publishing, history provides a strong storytelling foundation.
🎒 Looking for a Stylish & Comfy backpack? Check Out our Top Picks for the Best Backpacks for University!
💷 Average Salary Expectations for History Graduates in the UK
So, how much can you realistically earn with a history degree? Let’s have a look at some starting salaries:
- Museum Curator – £25,000–£40,000 (preserving and managing collections).
- Archivist – £22,000–£30,000 (organising historical records for research and public use).
- Policy Analyst – £25,000–£35,000 (researching and advising on government or NGO decisions).
- Marketing/Consulting – £28,000–£45,000 (helping companies grow with strategic insights).
- Media/Journalism – £20,000–£35,000 (researching, writing, and producing content).
👉 On average, Prospects reports history grads earn £25,000–£35,000 early on, with higher salaries possible in business, consultancy, or law as careers progress.
🚀 Tips to Succeed in a History Degree
Studying history is rewarding, but it can be challenging without the right approach. Here are some tips:
- Stay organised – history involves heavy reading. Break down material into manageable sections.
- Engage with debates – don’t just absorb facts; challenge interpretations and form your own arguments.
- Use digital tools – software like Zotero or Notion helps manage research and citations.
- Build your CV early – internships, volunteering at museums, or student journalism can make you stand out.
- Network and connect – join societies, attend lectures, and reach out to alumni in careers that interest you.
🎥 Creativity Meets History: Media & Entrepreneurship
With digital platforms booming, many history grads are building careers outside traditional jobs.
Some start YouTube channels, blogs, or podcasts to share history in engaging ways. Others combine history with entrepreneurship, creating media companies, publishing platforms, or consultancies.
If you’ve got a creative streak, your history degree could be the foundation of a unique and profitable career!
(💸 Bonus: The Best Student Discount!)
Want to save money and enjoy exclusive student perks? Unlock big savings with Amazon Prime Student — you can get 6 months FREE if you use your Uni email address OR if you are under 22 years old!
🎓 Amazon Prime Student: The Ultimate Uni Perk!
- 🚚 Free Next-Day Delivery
- 🎬 Amazon Prime Video
- 🎶 Prime Music
- 🎓 Student-Exclusive Offers
Sign up in minutes:
- Visit Amazon Prime Student.
- Click “Start Your 6-Month Trial”.
- Use your uni email address (.ac.uk).
- Confirm expected graduation year.
- Enjoy your free benefits!
🧠 What Skills Do You Gain from a History Degree?
This degree arms you with skills that employers love:
- Critical thinking & analysis – questioning evidence, identifying patterns, and building arguments.
- Research skills – finding, evaluating, and synthesising complex information.
- Communication – writing persuasively and presenting ideas clearly.
These are transferable skills that work across nearly every industry, making history grads surprisingly employable.
❓ FAQ: About History Degrees
It can be challenging due to the heavy reading and essay-based assessments. But if you enjoy analysis and research, it’s rewarding.
No. Unlike economics or finance, history involves little to no advanced maths — though basic numeracy is always useful.
From law and government to media, business, and museums — the options are broad.
Yes. Many history graduates go into law, often after completing a conversion course.
Typically £25,000–£35,000, though business and consultancy roles can exceed this.
Definitely. They give you added flexibility and career options.
Conclusion: Is a History Degree Worth It in 2025? 🎓
So, is a History degree worth it in the UK today? The short answer: yes — if you’re passionate about it.
While it’s not a “get rich quick” degree, history provides critical thinking, research, and communication skills that are in demand across countless industries. And with average salaries rising steadily as grads gain experience, it’s far from a dead end.
If you love history and enjoy connecting the past to the present, this degree can open doors not just in heritage, but also in law, business, policy, and beyond. After all, history doesn’t just look back — it shapes the future.
🎓 University Essentials – Everything You Need for Uni
Did you know? We’ve put together tailored student essential lists to help you through every aspect of university life!
- 📝 Student essentials: Everything you’ll need to stay prepared, productive, and comfortable during a typical Uni day.
- 💡 Accommodation essentials: Make your space feel like home (and don’t forget the stuff everyone forgets!).
- 🖥️ Study from home essentials: Tools and tips to create a distraction-free, efficient study setup.
- 🥘 Kitchen essentials: From budget-friendly basics to smart cooking tools that make life easier.
- 🎧 Coolest gadgets for university: Level up your uni experience with tech and tools students actually use.
📌 Sources:
- UCAS – History Degree Overview
- Office for National Statistics – Labour Market Data
- Prospects.ac.uk – History Careers
More Degree Reviews
Looking for more degree reviews? Check out more subjects below: