History Resume Template: Free Download & Format Guide (2026)
Free history resume template for 2026. Download chronological, functional, and combination formats. Includes skills templates, no-experience guide, and expert tips.
History Resume Template: Free Download & Format Guide (2026)
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for historians was $76,750 in May 2025, and employment is projected to grow 3 percent from 2025 to 2035. About 300 openings for historians are projected each year.
According to the American Historical Association (AHA), in an interview with Richard Gillespie:
> "As early as possible you want to start to prepare a resume to show that you've been involved in history. People don't care what school you went to or what your history degree is in, but if you have a resume that shows you've done a bunch of stuff in history, you're going to be hirable."
But having the right format matters just as much as having the right experience. According to CareerOneStop, there are three basic resume formats: chronological, functional, and combination.
This guide provides free, downloadable history resume templates in all three formats, along with expert guidance on which one to use and how to customize it.
“History Resume Template: Key Takeaways
- Median historian salary: $76,750 (BLS, May 2025)
- 3% job growth projected (2025-2035)
- 300 annual openings projected
- Three formats: chronological, functional, combination
- Chronological: for candidates with relevant experience
- Functional: for candidates with no directly related experience
- Combination: for career changers and mixed experience
- AHA recommends a 'Profile' section at the top with 3-5 bullets
- Group skills into Research, Language, and Digital Humanities categories”
What You'll Learn in This Guide
- Which resume format to use for your situation
- A complete chronological template with instructions
- A functional template for no-experience candidates
- A combination template for career changers
- Skills section templates by category
- Where to download free editable templates
- Common template mistakes to avoid
Which Format Should You Use?
According to CareerOneStop:
> "There are three basic resume styles, or formats: chronological, functional, and combination. A chronological format emphasizes your work history. It's a good choice for those who have a solid work history and are staying in the same field. A functional format emphasizes skills and experience, with little detail on work history."
According to Mount Royal University:
> "Chronological resume: Highlights your work history and professional achievements. Who should use it: Job seekers with no relevant work experience, or no work experience at all... Functional resume: In this format, your qualifications and skills are categorized by function."
| Your Situation | Best Format | Why |
|---|---|---|
| You have relevant internships or research experience | Chronological | Highlights your history-related experience first |
| You have no directly related experience | Functional | Emphasizes transferable skills over job history |
| You're a career changer with mixed experience | Combination | Balances skills and experience |
| You're applying to academic or research roles | CV (not resume) | Includes publications, grants, and teaching |
| You're applying to public history, museums, or nonprofits | Resume (1-2 pages) | Concise, skills-focused, ATS-friendly |
Template 1: Chronological History Resume
According to Lakehead University, the chronological format is the most common and easiest to prepare. Information about your current or most recent position is listed first, followed by previous positions in reverse chronological order.
When to use: You have relevant internships, research assistant roles, museum work, or archival experience.
“[YOUR NAME]
[Phone] | [Email] | [City, State] | [LinkedIn URL]
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
History graduate with [X] months/years of experience in [archival research / public history / museum programming]. Skilled in [key skill 1], [key skill 2], and [key skill 3]. Seeking [target role] where I can apply my research and analytical abilities.
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Arts in History
[University Name] | [City, State] | [Graduation Year]
GPA: [if 3.5+] | [Honors: Dean's List, Cum Laude, etc.]
Thesis: "[Your Thesis Title]"
Relevant Coursework: [Course 1], [Course 2], [Course 3]
EXPERIENCE
[Job Title] | [Organization] | [City, State] | [Dates]
- [Achievement with action verb and quantified result]
- [Achievement with action verb and quantified result]
- [Achievement with action verb and quantified result]
[Job Title] | [Organization] | [City, State] | [Dates]
- [Achievement with action verb and quantified result]
- [Achievement with action verb and quantified result]
SKILLS
Research & Analysis: [Skill 1], [Skill 2], [Skill 3]
Communication: [Skill 1], [Skill 2], [Skill 3]
Technical: [Skill 1], [Skill 2], [Skill 3]
Languages: [Language 1 — proficiency], [Language 2 — proficiency]
AWARDS & HONORS
- [Award Name] | [Year]
- [Award Name] | [Year]
VOLUNTEER
[Role] | [Organization] | [Dates]
- [Achievement with action verb and quantified result]”
Chronological Template: Filled Example
“EMILY CARTER
(555) 123-4567 | emily.carter@email.com | Boston, MA
[LinkedIn URL]
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Historian with 6 years of experience specializing in 19th-century American social history. Expertise in archival research, digital humanities, and public history programming. Published author with 3 peer-reviewed articles and 2 museum exhibitions curated.
EDUCATION
Master of Arts in History
Harvard University | Cambridge, MA | 2019
Thesis: "Labor and Community in Industrial New England, 1840-1900"
Bachelor of Arts in History
Boston College | Chestnut Hill, MA | 2017
Summa Cum Laude | GPA: 3.9
EXPERIENCE
Public Historian | Boston Historical Society | Boston, MA | 2022-Present
- Curated 2 major exhibitions reaching 45,000+ visitors, securing $85,000 in grant funding
- Developed K-12 educational programs serving 1,200+ students across 15 schools
- Managed archival digitization project preserving 8,000+ documents
- Conducted 25+ oral history interviews for community memory project
Research Assistant | Harvard University History Department | Cambridge, MA | 2019-2022
- Conducted archival research across 6 national repositories for professor's book project
- Analyzed 2,000+ primary documents spanning 1780-1920
- Co-authored 2 scholarly articles on labor history
- Presented research at 4 national conferences with audiences of 50+ scholars
SKILLS
Research & Analysis: Archival Research, Primary Source Analysis, Historiography, Qualitative Research, Data Interpretation
Communication: Academic Writing, Research Presentations, Argument Construction
Technical: Digital Humanities Tools, Database Management, Microsoft Office Suite
Languages: English (Native), Spanish (Conversational)
AWARDS & HONORS
- Excellence in Public History Award, National Council on Public History | 2025
- Research Grant, Massachusetts Historical Society | $15,000 | 2024”
Template 2: Functional History Resume (No Experience)
According to Rice University:
> "In this format, your qualifications and skills are categorized by function. If you are just entering the job market or are entering a field in which you have no directly related experience, this is probably the format you will want to use."
According to the AHA's Richard Gillespie:
> "Don't think you have to work for famous places just because you go to a good school. Local historical societies, local historical organizations, the local museum, the national park that's closest... grab every history opportunity you can get your hands on."
When to use: You have no formal history-related work experience but want to highlight your degree, coursework, volunteer work, and transferable skills.
“[YOUR NAME]
[Phone] | [Email] | [City, State] | [LinkedIn URL]
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
History graduate with a strong foundation in research, critical analysis, and written communication. Experienced in [volunteer area / coursework / project work]. Seeking [target role] where I can apply my historical training.
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Arts in History
[University Name] | [City, State] | [Graduation Year]
GPA: [if 3.5+] | [Honors]
Thesis: "[Your Thesis Title]"
SKILLS
Research & Analysis: Archival Research, Primary Source Analysis, Historiography, Data Interpretation, Source Criticism
Communication: Academic Writing, Research Presentations, Argument Construction, Public Speaking
Technical: Digital Humanities Tools, Database Management, Microsoft Office Suite
Languages: [Language — proficiency level]
RELEVANT PROJECTS & COURSEWORK
Research Thesis | [University Name] | [Semester Year]
- Completed [X]-word independent research thesis on [topic]
- Conducted primary source research across [number] archives
- Presented findings to faculty panel and peers
[Course Name] Final Project | [University Name] | [Semester Year]
- Analyzed [X] primary documents to construct argument about [topic]
- Produced [X]-page research paper with [X] cited sources
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
[Role] | [Organization] | [Dates]
- [Achievement with action verb and result]
- [Achievement with action verb and result]
CAMPUS LEADERSHIP
[Role] | [Organization] | [Dates]
- [Achievement with action verb and result]
- [Achievement with action verb and result]
AWARDS & HONORS
- [Award Name] | [Year]
- [Award Name] | [Year]”
Functional Template: Filled Example
“MICHAEL CHEN
(555) 987-6543 | michael.chen@email.com | Chicago, IL
[LinkedIn URL]
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
History graduate with hands-on archival research, museum programming, and public history experience. Skilled in primary source analysis, historical writing, and digital humanities. Seeking an entry-level historian, research assistant, or public history position.
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Arts in History
University of Illinois at Chicago | Chicago, IL | 2025
GPA: 3.8 | Dean's List (2023-2025)
Thesis: "Immigration and Community Formation in Chicago, 1880-1920"
SKILLS
Research & Analysis: Archival Research, Primary Source Analysis, Historiography, Qualitative Research, Data Interpretation
Communication: Academic Writing, Research Presentations, Argument Construction, Public Speaking
Technical: Digital Humanities Tools, Database Management, Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace
Languages: English (Native), Spanish (Conversational)
RELEVANT PROJECTS & COURSEWORK
Research Thesis | University of Illinois at Chicago | 2025
- Completed 15,000-word independent research thesis on Chicago immigration history
- Conducted primary source research at 4 local archives and historical societies
- Presented findings to faculty panel and peers
Public History Course Project | University of Illinois at Chicago | 2024
- Curated a small digital exhibit on Chicago labor history using Omeka
- Analyzed 50+ primary documents and wrote interpretive text for public audiences
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
Historical Society Volunteer | Chicago Historical Society | 2023-2024
- Led guided tours for 100+ visitors
- Assisted with exhibit setup and community events
Archival Intern | Chicago History Museum | 2024-2025
- Cataloged and digitized 500+ historical documents
- Created finding aids for 3 new collections
AWARDS & HONORS
- History Department Scholarship | 2024
- Undergraduate Research Grant | $2,000 | 2023”
Template 3: Combination History Resume
According to the University of Akron:
> "The combination resume is simply a way to blend both the styles of the chronological and functional resumes. It is a quick synopsis of your professional skills followed by your employment history."
When to use: You're a career changer, have a mix of relevant and unrelated experience, or want to lead with skills while still showing your work history.
“[YOUR NAME]
[Phone] | [Email] | [City, State] | [LinkedIn URL]
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
[2-3 sentences highlighting your degree, skills, and career target.]
SKILLS SUMMARY
- [Key skill 1 with brief context]
- [Key skill 2 with brief context]
- [Key skill 3 with brief context]
CORE COMPETENCIES
[Skill 1] | [Skill 2] | [Skill 3] | [Skill 4] | [Skill 5] | [Skill 6]
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
[Job Title] | [Organization] | [Dates]
- [Achievement with action verb and quantified result]
- [Achievement with action verb and quantified result]
[Job Title] | [Organization] | [Dates]
- [Achievement with action verb and quantified result]
- [Achievement with action verb and quantified result]
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Arts in History
[University Name] | [City, State] | [Year]
AWARDS & HONORS
- [Award Name] | [Year]
- [Award Name] | [Year]”
Skills Section Template (JobSprout.ai Format)
According to JobSprout.ai, skills should be "thoughtfully grouped into 'Research Methodologies,' 'Language Proficiencies,' and 'Digital Humanities Tools.'"
Grouped Skills Template:
“SKILLS
Research Methodologies
- Archival Research
- Historical Analysis
- Primary Source Analysis
- Historiography
- Qualitative Research
- Oral History
- Research Design
- Source Criticism
- Textual Criticism
Language Proficiencies
- English (Native)
- Spanish (Conversational)
- French (Reading proficiency)
- Latin (Basic)
Digital Humanities Tools
- Omeka
- Scalar
- Zotero
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Google Workspace
- Database Management
- Content Management Systems
Communication & Soft Skills
- Academic Writing
- Research Presentations
- Critical Thinking
- Attention to Detail
- Time Management
- Independence”
Where to Download Free History Resume Templates
Several universities and career platforms offer free, editable history resume templates:
| Source | Format | How to Access |
|---|---|---|
| University of Rhode Island | Google Docs | Download sample, then File > Make a Copy |
| Emmanuel College | Editable template | Download and replace content with your own |
| JobSprout.ai | Online builder + samples | Browse historian resume examples |
| Kickresume | Online builder + samples | Free historian resume templates |
| SEEK | Downloadable template | Free resume template for Historian jobs |
| Laddro | Online template | Museum/Heritage Assistant resume template |
According to the University of Rhode Island:
> "Learn more about this sample resume and obtain access to it via Google Docs to begin creating your own copy. From there, click on File > Make a Copy > and now you have a completely editable version of this template in your own Google Drive!"
According to Emmanuel College:
> "This resume template is specifically designed for Humanities majors and highlights important skills and experiences for roles in communications, academic, or professional services fields."
Common Template Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Why It Hurts | Fix It |
|---|---|---|
| Using a CV for non-academic roles | Too long and academically focused | Convert to a 1-2 page resume for public history roles |
| Listing only "history" as a skill | Too vague; doesn't tell employers what you can do | Break into specific skills: research, analysis, writing, argument |
| Using academic jargon | Hiring managers outside academia won't understand | Translate into plain language employers use |
| No quantifiable achievements | Recruiters can't gauge your impact | Add numbers: documents analyzed, thesis length, audience size |
| Not tailoring to the role | Generic resume gets ignored | Mirror the language of the job description |
| Leaving off part-time jobs | Misses opportunity to show transferable skills | Include retail, service, or admin roles — highlight transferable skills |
Expert Quotes to Remember
“"As early as possible you want to start to prepare a resume to show that you've been involved in history. Grab every history opportunity you can get your hands on."”
“"The combination resume is simply a way to blend both the styles of the chronological and functional resumes. It is a quick synopsis of your professional skills followed by your employment history."”
“"If you are just entering the job market or are entering a field in which you have no directly related experience, this is probably the format you will want to use."”
“"Skills are thoughtfully grouped into 'Research Methodologies,' 'Language Proficiencies,' and 'Digital Humanities Tools.'"”
“"This resume template is specifically designed for Humanities majors and highlights important skills and experiences for roles in communications, academic, or professional services fields."”
Sources & References
- Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) — Historian salary, job outlook, and duties
- American Historical Association (AHA) — Career readiness, resume guidance, and expert interviews
- CareerOneStop — Resume format guidance (chronological, functional, combination)
- JobSprout.ai — Historian resume examples and skills grouping
- Kickresume — Historian resume samples and format guidance
- Rice University — Functional resume format guidance
- University of Akron — Combination resume explanation
- University of Rhode Island — Free downloadable history resume template
- Emmanuel College — Humanities resume template
- SEEK — Free historian resume templates
Conclusion: Choose Your Template and Start Building
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, historians earn a median annual wage of $76,750, and employment is projected to grow 3% from 2025 to 2035. According to CareerOneStop, there are three basic resume formats: chronological, functional, and combination.
Key Takeaways:
- Use chronological if you have relevant experience
- Use functional if you have no directly related experience
- Use combination if you're a career changer or have mixed experience
- Group skills into Research, Language, and Digital Humanities categories
- Add a Profile section with 3-5 bullets (AHA recommendation)
- Quantify achievements with numbers
- Download free editable templates from university career centers
- Tailor your resume for each position
Action Steps for Today:
1. Choose your format (chronological, functional, or combination)
2. Download a free template from a university career center or JobSprout
3. Fill in your education, skills, and experience
4. Quantify your achievements
5. Translate academic jargon into plain language
6. Tailor your resume for the job description
7. Build your ATS-friendly resume with our ATS CV Maker
What is the best resume format for history majors?
According to CareerOneStop, there are three basic resume styles: chronological, functional, and combination. For history majors with relevant internships or research experience, use a chronological format. For those with no directly related experience, use a functional format that emphasizes skills. For career changers or those with a mix of experience, use a combination format.
What sections should a history resume template include?
According to the American Historical Association, a resume should include: contact information, professional summary or profile, education, skills, experience, and awards. For academic CVs, add publications, presentations, grants, and professional affiliations. The AHA recommends adding a short 'Profile' section at the top that summarizes major qualifications in three to five bulleted points.
How do I write a history resume with no experience?
According to the American Historical Association, 'as early as possible you want to start to prepare a resume to show that you've been involved in history.' Focus on coursework, thesis projects, volunteer work at local historical societies, archival internships, and transferable skills. The AHA recommends 'grab every history opportunity you can get your hands on.'
What skills should go in a history resume template?
According to JobSprout.ai, group skills into categories like Research Methodologies, Language Proficiencies, and Digital Humanities Tools. Include hard skills like archival research, historical analysis, and primary source analysis alongside soft skills like critical thinking, attention to detail, and academic communication.
Where can I download a free history resume template?
Several universities offer free, editable history resume templates through Google Docs. The University of Rhode Island and Emmanuel College both provide downloadable templates specifically designed for humanities and history majors. JobSprout.ai and Kickresume also offer free historian resume samples and templates.
About the Author
Ash is a resume expert and career strategist who helps history graduates, researchers, and academics translate their training into compelling resumes and CVs. Ash's work has been cited in leading career publications and trusted by job seekers worldwide.
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