History, Ph.D.
College of Arts and Sciences
Take your skills for historical work to the highest level as you conduct research that explores the complex past and informs solutions to challenges in the present.
History doctoral students conduct hands-on research in aspects of history most interesting to them. They become well-informed scholars who work in academia, museums and other cultural institutions, and USC's public history track opens doors to more opportunities writing and presenting history to the public.
Program Highlights
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Collaborative Research
Conduct independent research with guidance from faculty mentors, learning grant writing and other skills critical to advanced research.
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Ideal Location
In South Carolina’s capital city, you’ll have access to historical archives and resources on campus and off.
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Public History Integration
Join one of the few graduate history programs offering public history training, to prepare for a fulfilling career in public-facing history.
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Teaching Opportunities
Become a teacher on campus or online, and work in local programs that connect the general public to history.
Building Skills
Gain the professional and personal intelligence it takes to have a successful career.
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Cultural Awareness
Learning about and respecting diverse cultures and beliefs
Public Speaking
Delivering a message or presentation to an audience effectively and persuasively
Research
Gathering and analyzing information to increase knowledge or solve problems
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Interpersonal Skills
Communicating and interacting effectively in a variety of social and professional situations
Writing
Creating professional written content for inclusion in scholarly journal articles, books and reports
Critical Thinking
Analyzing and evaluating information to make informed decisions or judgments
Using your degree
Make your college experience the foundation for a successful future.
Learn how alumni use degrees with outcome data from Gamecock GradStats, a service of the University of South Carolina Career Center.
Potential Careers
- Faculty
- Historian
- Researcher
- Writer
- Archivist
- Policy Maker
Job Titles of Alumni
- Assistant Professor
- Associate Professor
- Professor
- Teacher
- Historical Writer and Editor
Average Alumni Salary
Five to 10 years after graduation without additional education $83,995
Workplace Settings
- Higher Education
- Historic Sites
- Museums and Libraries
- Research Institute
- Nonprofits
- Tourism
Employers of Alumni
- South Carolina State Museum
- University of South Carolina
- Historic Columbia
- Augusta University