Job viability with this degree?

Question

I am about to transfer from a 2 year to a 4 year school. I love history and am planning to pursue career as a history teacher at the high school level. From what i understand history teachers are a dime a dozen. If I chose this path, my degree will be a major in History with a focus in secondary ed and a minor in political science. If i can't find a job teaching are there any other options with this degree? am I kicking myself in the teeth?

Answer 1

Don't kick yourself...anywhere.  The field is opening up.  Remember all those men who got college deferments so they wouldn't get drafted during the Vietnam War (and a history degree was what they went for)?  How about all those Peace Corps vets who went into teaching (history, natch) during the 1970s era of progressive education?

Well, they're now all retiring.  ;)

Hang in there.  You will have a solid education behind you once you're done, and quality *always* gets hired.

EDIT:  I agree with the other person who said to pursue a masters in history (or poli sci).  Schools don't care what your masters is in, just that you have one.  As I am learning, a masters in education qualifies you to be a teacher, and that's it.  My only post-secondary options with this degree are to teach education courses...and there are too many EdDs and PhDs out there willing to do it.

Answer 2

True, not one of the more marketable degree areas. Many people studying this discipline are prelaw students or seek a career in public service and government. If you are going to continue this path, at least pursue a post graduate degree to give you an advantage in the job market, especially in states that don't require a Master's degree for a teaching certificate.

Suggest that the M.A. or PhD be in the discipline (e.g.,history) and not in education (EdD) in case you aspire to teach at the college level in the future.  M.Ed or EdD degrees are OK if you consider  being a school administrator (principal, Assist. Supt.,etc).

Decisions, decisions!