History Careers list in South Africa
Studying History from Grade 10 to Grade 12 is a valuable choice that can lead to diverse and rewarding career paths in South Africa. This subject not only enriches our understanding of the past but also equips students with critical thinking, research, and analytical skills.
Here’s an in-depth look at some promising history-related careers in South Africa, along with the necessary educational pathways and institutions where you can study these fields.
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History Careers List in South Africa
Historian Career
A career as a historian involves researching, analyzing, and interpreting historical events and trends. Historians often work in academic settings, museums, or governmental institutions, focusing on preserving and communicating the past. In South Africa, historians play a crucial role in understanding the country’s complex history, from pre-colonial times through the apartheid era to contemporary issues.
Where and What to Study: To become a historian, consider pursuing a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in History at universities such as the University of Cape Town (UCT), University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), or Stellenbosch University (SU). Further specialization can be achieved with an Honours or Master’s degree in History. Salaries for historians typically range from ZAR 300,000 to 450,000 per year, depending on experience and specialization.
Archivist Career
Archivists are essential for managing and preserving historical documents and records. They work in archives, libraries, and museums, ensuring that valuable historical data is accessible for research and education. This career is particularly significant in South Africa, where documenting the country’s diverse cultural heritage is crucial.
Where and What to Study: To become an archivist, you might start with a Bachelor of Information Science or a Bachelor of Library and Information Science, offered at universities like the University of South Africa (UNISA) and University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN). Specialization in archival studies can be pursued at postgraduate levels.
Archivists in South Africa can expect to earn between ZAR 250,000 and 400,000 per year.
Museum Curator Career
Museum curators manage collections of art, artifacts, and historical items. They plan exhibitions, manage acquisitions, and often conduct educational programs. In South Africa, museum curators play a pivotal role in showcasing the country’s rich history and cultural diversity.
Where and What to Study: Aspiring museum curators typically study a Bachelor of Arts in Heritage and Museum Studies, available at institutions like UCT and University of Pretoria (UP). Additional training in art history or cultural studies can be beneficial.
Salaries for museum curators range from ZAR 300,000 to 450,000 per year.
Teacher or Lecturer Career
Teaching history at the high school or tertiary level is a fulfilling career that involves educating students about significant historical events, movements, and figures. In South Africa, history educators are essential for promoting critical thinking and understanding social justice issues related to the nation’s past.
Where and What to Study: To become a history teacher, pursue a Bachelor of Education (BEd) in History or a BA in History followed by a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE). These programs are offered at universities like Wits, UCT, and UKZN. For university-level teaching, an Honours or Master’s degree in History is usually required.
School teachers earn around ZAR 200,000 to 350,000 per year, while university lecturers can earn between ZAR 350,000 and 600,000 annually.
Journalist Career
Journalists with a background in history are well-equipped to provide in-depth analysis and context for current events. They work in various media, including newspapers, television, and online platforms. In South Africa, journalists play a crucial role in informing the public and shaping discourse on social and political issues.
Where and What to Study: A Bachelor of Arts in Journalism or a related field, combined with history courses, can provide a solid foundation for this career. Institutions like Rhodes University, UCT, and Wits offer strong journalism programs.
Journalists’ salaries in South Africa range from ZAR 150,000 to 450,000 per year, depending on experience and the media outlet.
Archaeologist Career
Archaeologists explore ancient sites and cultures, often working on excavation projects and analyzing artifacts. This career is particularly exciting in South Africa, a country with a rich archaeological record stretching back millions of years.
Where and What to Study: A Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Archaeology or a BA in Archaeology, available at universities like Wits, UCT, and University of Pretoria (UP), is essential. Advanced degrees are often required for specialized research roles.
Archaeologists can earn between ZAR 300,000 and 500,000 per year.
Public Historian Career
Public historians work outside of traditional academic settings, engaging the public with history through museums, documentaries, public history projects, and more. They play a vital role in making history accessible and relevant to a broader audience.
Where and What to Study: Pursue a BA in Public History or related programs, available at institutions like UCT and SU. Further specialization can be obtained through postgraduate studies in public history or heritage management. Public historians typically earn between ZAR 300,000 and 450,000 per year.
Policy Analyst Career
Policy analysts use historical data and trends to inform public policy and decision-making. They work for government agencies, think tanks, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), providing valuable insights into social, economic, and political issues.
Where and What to Study: A BA in Political Science or Public Administration with a strong history component, followed by specialized training or a Master’s in Public Policy, is ideal. Universities like UP, Wits, and Stellenbosch University offer these programs.
Policy analysts can expect salaries ranging from ZAR 400,000 to 600,000 per year.
Studying History from Grade 10 to Grade 12 is not only about understanding the past; it’s a gateway to a variety of rewarding careers that impact society in meaningful ways. Whether you’re passionate about education, preserving cultural heritage, or influencing public policy, the skills gained from studying history are invaluable. With a solid educational foundation and a commitment to continuous learning, history graduates can thrive in diverse fields, making significant contributions to South Africa’s rich and complex narrative.
