It is unusual to go into a job directly related to a history degree until completing further study, however there can be opportunities in museums and libraries. More generally, the excellent research and communication skills that come from studying History open the door to a whole host of opportunities for graduates.
A large proportion take on roles as researchers and archiving, working for government and not for profit agencies. These skills matched with the analytical mind required in your degree also echo those required in many legal jobs from solicitors to legal assistants. Other potential roles lie in advertising, marketing and PR roles where good communication and critical thinking is needed. 7.8 percent of the 2010 history graduates chose the marketing and sales route to start their career. The commercial and business sector attracted 10 percent of history students while the retail industry gave jobs to 21.3 percent.
Being an academic subject teachers are always required for 5-18 year olds, although further training is required such as a PGCE. Following further study, careers in archaeology, cultural resources management and historic preservation become available, but are highly competitive. Of the 2010 history graduates, over 13.2 percent chose to pursue a higher qualification. Some history students chose to specialise further with a Masters degree, while 2.9 percent embarked on a teaching career.
Figures are taken from the 2011 edition of "What Do Graduates Do?".