What do David Blunkett, Sacha Baron Cohen and Alan Bennett all have in common? You might be surprised to hear that all three studied history at university – and the fact that they have such different careers shows just how versatile the degree is.
Studying humanities degrees isn't like medicine – there often isn't a job waiting for you at the end of your three years. But the skills you learn on these courses allow you to try your hand at a number of different careers. Newcastle University's website says:
"The skills you develop as a historian are highly regarded by employers in many sectors. You will learn to critically evaluate evidence, organise ideas and present a coherent argument. You will assess problems in the light of considerable amounts of information and will present complex material accurately, clearly and convincingly, both orally and on paper."
We took to Twitter this week to see what types of jobs people had gone into following a history degree. It soon became apparent just how diverse the job market was, for example:
@guardiancareers Working in finance based in a purchase ledger department. History opens the doors for almost anything. #historycareer
— Mikaela Morley (@mickie1988) September 11, 2012
And @BronCarrB shows how she has used her degree to dabble in a number of professions:
@guardiancareers #historycareer - theatre director and teacher.
— Bronwen Carr (@BronCarrB) September 11, 2012
So if you would like to know more about what your options are, join us this Thursday from 1pm to 3pm as we discuss potential careers for history graduates. You can leave your comments and questions now or join us live on Thursday. Alternatively, you can tweet us @GuardianCareers or email Chris Mandle and we'll post your questions for you.
Arthur Burns is Professor of Modern British History at Kings College London. He studied for both his undergraduate degree and doctorate at Balliol College, University of Oxford.
Thomas de Freitas is managing director and director of specialist markets, Communicate. Armed with a degree in Ancient History from UCL, Thomas joined Communicate in 2008 to set up the specialist markets desk. Within this division, he has successfully established permanent and interim solutions for treasury and tax recruitment.
Meryn McLaren is a Graduate Teaching Assistant at Kings College London and freelance researcher for an education and employment charity. She graduated with a degree in History with German from Bristol University and went on to study an MSc in Public Policy at UCL and a PhD in Modern German History at Sheffield.
Michael Wood is a Candidate Recruitment Manager with Capita Education Resourcing. He joined Capita Education Resourcing in January 2012 with responsibility for increasing the quality and numbers of candidates available throughout the business.
Ravi Soni is a careers adviser for the National Careers Service, a free and impartial adult advisory service providing information, advice and guidance on learning, training and work opportunities.
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