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How to Become a Historian: Australian Careers in Arts and Humanities

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How to Become a Historian: Australian Careers in Arts and Humanities
How to Become a Historian: Australian Careers in Arts and Humanities
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What is a Historian?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Historian?

A career as a Historian offers a unique opportunity to delve into the past, exploring the events, cultures, and individuals that have shaped human history. Historians engage in extensive research, analysing a variety of sources such as documents, artefacts, and oral histories to construct narratives that illuminate our understanding of the world. Their work is not only about uncovering facts but also about interpreting the significance of these findings, making connections between past and present, and contributing to the broader discourse on historical events.

Historians have a diverse range of responsibilities that include gathering and authenticating historical data, evaluating its relevance, and presenting their findings in various formats. They often write articles, books, and reports, and may also engage in public speaking or teaching to share their insights. This role requires a keen analytical mind, as historians must critically assess the validity of their sources and the context in which they were created. Their work can influence public policy, education, and cultural heritage, making it a vital profession in society.

Common tasks for historians include conducting interviews, examining historical artefacts, and collaborating with other researchers to enhance their understanding of specific topics. They may work in academic settings, museums, or government agencies, and often have the opportunity to contribute to exhibitions or educational programs. The collaborative nature of the field allows historians to engage with a variety of disciplines, enriching their research and broadening their perspectives.

Overall, a career as a historian is not only intellectually rewarding but also plays a crucial role in preserving and interpreting our collective memory. By connecting the dots of history, historians help society understand its roots and navigate its future, making this profession both impactful and fulfilling.

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Career snapshots For Historians

Historians play a vital role in understanding and interpreting the past, contributing to various fields such as education, research, and cultural preservation. This profession is characterised by a strong emphasis on research, analysis, and communication skills, making it a rewarding yet challenging career path.

  • Average Age: 54 years
  • Gender Distribution: 62% female
  • Average Hours Worked: 42 hours per week (50% work full-time)
  • Average Salary: AU$47,500 per year (with a range from AU$45,000 to AU$81,000)
  • Unemployment Rate: N/A
  • Current Employment: Approximately 510 historians employed in Australia
  • Projected Growth: Annual employment growth data not available

Historians typically work in sectors such as professional, scientific, and technical services, education and training, and arts and recreation services. Their work often involves consulting various historical sources, conducting research, and presenting findings through publications and lectures. As the demand for historical knowledge continues to grow, opportunities in this field are expected to remain stable.

Source: ABS, 2021 Census of Population and Housing.

What will I do?

Historians play a vital role in understanding and interpreting the past, shedding light on human activities, cultures, and events that have shaped societies. They engage in extensive research, analyse historical documents, and present their findings through various mediums. This profession requires a keen eye for detail, critical thinking, and a passion for uncovering the stories that define our history. Each day, historians immerse themselves in a world of archives, artefacts, and narratives, contributing to our collective memory and understanding of the human experience.

  • Assemble historical data – Historians consult various sources such as historical indexes, archives, court records, diaries, and newspaper files to gather relevant information.
  • Organise and evaluate data – They authenticate, evaluate, and interpret historical, political, sociological, anthropological, and linguistic data to ensure accuracy and relevance.
  • Conduct research – Historians undertake in-depth historical and cultural research into human activities, exploring different eras and contexts.
  • Prepare findings – They compile and present research findings through reports, articles, lectures, and exhibitions, making history accessible to a wider audience.
  • Examine artefacts – Historians study historical artefacts, documents, and other materials to gain insights into past events and cultures.
  • Collaborate with institutions – They may work with museums, universities, and government agencies to preserve and promote historical knowledge.
  • Teach and mentor – Many historians engage in teaching at educational institutions, sharing their expertise with students and aspiring historians.

What skills do I need?

A career as a historian requires a diverse set of skills that enable individuals to effectively research, analyse, and interpret historical data. Strong research skills are essential, as historians must gather information from various sources, including archives, court records, and historical documents. Analytical skills are equally important, allowing historians to evaluate the authenticity and significance of their findings. Additionally, effective communication skills are crucial for presenting research findings through reports, lectures, and publications, ensuring that complex historical narratives are accessible to a wider audience.

Historians also benefit from a keen attention to detail and critical thinking abilities, which help them to construct well-supported arguments and hypotheses based on their research. Time management skills are necessary to balance the demands of research, writing, and potential teaching responsibilities. Furthermore, resilience and teamwork can enhance a historian’s ability to collaborate on projects and navigate the challenges of historical inquiry. Overall, a combination of these skills not only enriches a historian’s work but also contributes to a deeper understanding of human history.

Skills/attributes

  • Strong research skills
  • Analytical thinking
  • Attention to detail
  • Excellent written communication
  • Ability to interpret and evaluate historical data
  • Critical thinking
  • Time management
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Autonomy and self-motivation
  • Resilience in facing challenges
  • Public speaking and presentation skills
  • Knowledge of historical methodologies
  • Familiarity with archival research
  • Understanding of cultural and social contexts
  • Adaptability to new information and perspectives

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