Preserving the Past: 7 Reasons to Get a Master’s Degree in American History

Image by Michael Kumm on Flickr

Image by Michael Kumm on Flickr

Pursuing a master’s degree can be a very rewarding experience. The challenge of earning your master’s degree not only makes you a better-rounded individual, but opens the door to higher earning potential and better job offers. If you’re planning on getting your Master’s degree and are considering the different courses of study available to you, check out our seven reason to get a Master’s degree in American History:

1: Versatility

A master’s degree in American history can be applied to a wide array of professional fields. Whether you want to go into research, writing, government, publishing, banking, or teaching, this degree will help you get there.

2: Competitive Advantage

The careers listed above are just a few of the many careers you can pursue with a master’s in American history. Regardless of your chosen field, earning this degree will give you a significant leg up on your competition in the applicant pool. Many hiring decisions are made by very slim margins, and showing your ability to think critically while working diligently is your opportunity to separate yourself from the competition.

3: Wide Knowledge Base

A master’s in American history will give you a legitimately wider knowledge base that will prove useful in daily occurrences. Being able to draw from factual information and events in America’s history will enhance your performance at work. For instance, the degree can make a lawyer more persuasive, or a broadcaster more accurate.

4: Pay Increase

Not only will you be a more attractive job candidate, but you’ll be better compensated as well. Studies have shown that completing a master’s degree in American history will earn you a higher salary than other humanities degrees.

5: Specialization

A master’s in American history offers various areas of specific study that allow you to explore your intense interests, whether that be a specific period in American history, studying presidential history, or any other segment of the country’s past.

6: Skill Development

Your coursework will challenge you, but it will help you develop and sharpen your skill set, from critical and analytical thinking to writing and comprehensive skills. You will grow both personally and intellectually.

7: Reduced or Free Tuition

Master’s programs usually offer stipends for students that cover most of if not all tuition fees. So, not only will your degree earn you a higher paycheck, but many times you can earn the pay bump for little to no cost.

For those interested in furthering their education, earning your master’s American history offers a plethora of benefits, and is a truly rewarding experience.

This article was contributed by guest author Lizzie Weakley.

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