History Major Career Opportunities

It is always a challenge which is stressful, demotivating & sometimes heartbreaking for a majority of students undertaking Arts/Humanities and or related subjects at Advanced level among Zimbabwean students not knowing which career path to pursue. To some students studying for a Law degree is the only option they think of and failing to attain the required points/grades becomes a stumbling block. I would like to share some important information that relates to career opportunities for those students who have a passion for a  History major at University.

Being a young trainee scholar in the department of History at the University of Zimbabwe l am compelled to enlighten young learners on the benefits of specialising in History at tertiary level. Rather than stressing yourself on many issues History as a discipline has many career opportunities that you never learn at school and which your friends may not be aware of. By the age of 14 l had put it in black and white in my personal thick brown diary that, the career of my choice is being a Historian. Why would one fall for History at the first place, one may ask himself/herself? Interestingly, there are many benefits that one can have which many students do not realise throughout the high school experience.

In as much as students would want to know more about entry requirements for a degree in History at the University of Zimbabwe, l find it necessary to list some of the career opportunities open to graduates in History at tertiary level.
The following, among many others are some of the areas and institutions where graduates may find employment;

1. The Ministry of Foreign affairs

2. Ministry of Rural Development, Preservation and Promotion of Culture and Heritage

3. The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education

4. The National Archives of Zimbabwe

5. The National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe

6. The National Galleries of Zimbabwe

7. The Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education

Entry Requirements
It is vital to know the various areas of specialising one can pursue when studying History at the University of Zimbabwe. I am proud to share with you this life worth material because l am a product of this tried and tested brand in Zimbabwe. I also believe in your potential and its up to you to grab the challenge and fulfill your dreams.
The areas of specialisation currently offered include the following;

B. A. Honours in History [ A level passes in History and other Arts subjects]

B. A. Honours in History and Shona [A level passes in History in History and Shona]

B. A. Honours in History and Ndebele [A level passes in History and Ndebele]

B. A. Dual Honours in History and Tonga [A level passes in History and Ndebele/Shona]
B. A. Dual Honours in History and Religious Studies [A level passes in History and Divinity]

All the above programmes have a duration for study of four(4)  years with an industrial attachment of between 8 and 12 months.

In addition to that, there is also Post graduate programmes and the unit offers one Masters programme, the M. A in African History which equips candidates with deep knowledge in History and preparing them for PhD studies.

It is worth  remembering that, one has to live a life of purpose with a dream, a vision which needs to be fulfilled. Why are you here on mother earth? As a young student advancing in education undertaking Advanced level studies its imperative that you decide for your future. Aim higher and reach the stars. Never look down upon yourself. You can do it.

As you prepare to write your examinations, push with focus and decide today to pursue a career of your choice. Enjoy your your studies everyday and stand up with tenacity whenever you face challenges. It is dogged that does it.

About Contributor
Brian Maregedze (MAFH candidate [UZ], S. H. S [UZ] & B. A. A [UZ])