History & Political Science

A classroom scene with students sitting at desks, engaging with open books and laptops. A teacher in an orange blazer is leaning over to speak with a female student in a red sweater. Bookshelves and other students are visible in the background.

Outcomes

A degree in history & political science offers graduates numerous career paths. Graduates can work as historians, researching and interpreting historical events. Others become policy analysts, examining government policies and suggesting improvements. Some work in government positions or as legislative aides, while others advocate for causes in nonprofit organizations. 

Graduates can also pursue careers as lawyers, educators, journalists, researchers, archivists or public relations specialists. With their skills in critical thinking, research, and communication, they are well-equipped for various professions that value understanding of the past and its impact on the present.

Career Outlook

  • Average Salary: $73,232
  • Job Postings: 87

Average salary is based on an architectural historian position from Salary.com. Job posting data is for architectural historian positions and is provided by Lightcast. This number represents unique job postings from companies looking to hire in the last 30 days as of May 2024.

Four young adults sit around an outdoor table on a sunny day. They are smiling and engaged in conversation. Two of them wear white hoodies with printed text, and one wears a beanie. Background includes trees and buildings. They seem to be enjoying each other's company.

Internships

Our dedicated faculty will help you find internship opportunities that match your interests. These real-world experiences will build your resumé and increase your professional network.

In recent years, USF students have interned with the U.S. Attorney’s office in Sioux Falls, S.D.; legislators in Pierre, S.D.; public service agencies in Washington, D.C.; the Siouxland Heritage Museums and with a member of Parliament in London, England. Internships are also available with the Sioux Falls City Council, historical museums, historical preservation projects or other historical/political projects.

Graduate School Opportunities

Studying history prepares students for graduate work in a variety of professions, including law, business, history, education, seminary and library science. Here is a list of some noteworthy graduate schools that our students have attended:

  • American Military University
  • Creighton University
  • Georgetown University
  • Hamline University
  • Oklahoma City University
  • Phoenix School of Law
  • University of Hawaii
  • University of Minnesota
  • University of South Dakota
  • University of St. Thomas
  • University of Virginia
  • Washburn University