Department of History

What is History?

History is your gateway to understanding the human experience across time and cultures while developing the critical thinking, research excellence and analytical skills that drive success in countless careers. As one of UofL's original departments since 1907, we empower you to explore the processes that shape societies while building practical expertise through hands-on internships at prestigious institutions like Churchill Downs and the Filson Historical Society. 

Our programs connect classroom learning with real-world application, preparing you for careers in law, education, museums, government and business — including our distinctive 3+3 Program that accelerates your path to legal careers at the prestigious Brandeis School of Law. 

Whether you're drawn to social sciences or humanities concentrations, our distinguished faculty guide you through transformative learning experiences using Louisville's rich historical landscape as your living laboratory. Here, your curiosity about the past transforms into the expertise and leadership that preserves human stories, informs wise decision-making and creates lasting impact in communities worldwide.

Career Prospects

Where the Past Becomes Your Professional Power

Transform your passion for stories into a career that shapes understanding, drives decision-making and preserves cultural heritage. History graduates don't just find jobs — they become the analytical thinkers, compelling storytellers and strategic advisors who help organizations and communities navigate complex challenges through lessons of the past. With history ranking as the second-best major for law school acceptance and graduates demonstrating exceptional critical thinking skills valued across industries, your education becomes the foundation for professional excellence.

Museums, Archives and Cultural Heritage 

Salary Range: $34,840-$128,500 
Lead the preservation and interpretation of human culture through dynamic roles in museums, archives and cultural institutions experiencing unprecedented 11% growth. Your deep understanding of historical context and research methodology positions you at the center of cultural preservation, where scholarship meets public engagement.

Career Opportunities:

• Museum Curator developing exhibitions that bring history to life for audiences
• Archivist managing digital and physical collections for future generations
• Historic Preservation Specialist protecting cultural landmarks and archaeological sites
• Museum Education Coordinator creating programs that inspire lifelong learning
• Cultural Resource Manager ensuring compliance with heritage protection laws
• Digital Humanities Specialist bridging traditional scholarship with cutting-edge technology
• Heritage Tourism Developer creating authentic experiences that celebrate local history

Education and Academic Leadership 

Salary Range: $47,330-$200,000+ 
Shape minds and inspire critical thinking through teaching and educational leadership at all levels. Your expertise in historical analysis and narrative construction makes you essential for developing informed citizens and future leaders who understand the complexities of human experience.

Career Opportunities:

• High School History Teacher inspiring the next generation of thoughtful citizens
• Community College Professor providing accessible higher education opportunities
• University Professor conducting research while training future historians
• Curriculum Developer creating engaging educational materials and programs
• Educational Consultant advising schools and districts on historical content and pedagogy
• Academic Administrator leading educational institutions and initiatives
• Museum Educator bridging formal and informal learning environments

Government and Public Service Excellence 

Salary Range: $37,467-$122,510
Serve your community and nation through roles that require deep analytical thinking and understanding of historical precedent. Federal positions offer exceptional job security, comprehensive benefits and transparent advancement through the GS pay system, with clear paths from entry-level to senior leadership.

Career Opportunities:

• Policy Analyst researching and developing solutions to complex social issues
• Legislative Assistant supporting elected officials in crafting effective legislation
• Cultural Resource Specialist managing heritage sites and archaeological projects
• Foreign Service Officer representing American interests with cultural sensitivity
• Intelligence Analyst applying historical context to contemporary security challenges
• National Park Service Interpreter connecting visitors with America's natural and cultural heritage
• Congressional Researcher providing historical context for policy decisions

Business and Strategic Analysis 

Salary Range: $42,000-$192,000
Apply your analytical excellence and research skills to drive business success through strategic thinking and compelling communication. Your training in critical analysis and understanding of human behavior makes you valuable for consulting, market research and corporate strategy roles.

Career Opportunities:

• Management Consultant solving complex business problems for Fortune 500 companies
• Market Research Analyst understanding consumer behavior and industry trends
• Corporate Historian preserving institutional memory and brand heritage
• Business Communications Specialist crafting compelling narratives for stakeholders
• Content Strategist developing engaging materials that resonate with target audiences
• User Experience Researcher applying understanding of human behavior to product design
• Strategic Planning Analyst using historical precedent to inform business decisions

Law and Legal Services

Salary Range: $60,000-$300,000+ 
Excel in legal careers where your analytical writing, research expertise and understanding of precedent provide natural advantages. History majors achieve the second-highest law school acceptance rate (79.1%) among all undergraduate majors, demonstrating the strong foundation your education provides for legal excellence.

Career Opportunities:

• Attorney advocating for clients across various legal specializations
• Legal Researcher supporting complex litigation and policy development
• Court Administrator managing judicial processes and legal documentation
• Paralegal providing essential support for legal teams and case preparation
• Corporate Compliance Officer ensuring organizational adherence to regulations
• Legal Writer creating content for legal publications and professional development
• Judicial Clerk supporting judges in research and decision-making processes

Your Story, Your Impact, Your Legacy

Every path in History connects your love of learning with the power to influence how society understands itself and makes decisions. Whether you're drawn to preserving cultural heritage, educating future generations or applying historical insight to contemporary challenges, your history education provides the foundation for a career that values wisdom, promotes understanding and creates lasting impact. With 84.8% employment rates, exceptional law school preparation and salary premiums reaching 86% above high school graduates, your investment in historical knowledge becomes your gateway to professional fulfillment and meaningful contribution to society.