Why History?

The choices that you will be making for your future should include the past!

By choosing history, you will not only be equipping yourself well for your final years of schooling, but for the rest of your life. History enables people to know about past events and actions; it also makes them critical and wary thinkers, more confident communicators and more active citizens.

What skills does History provide?
Most obviously History provides an understanding of past events, not just dates and facts. Such skills are invaluable in all aspects of our lives. Understanding where society and individuals come from also enables you to understand where we are today.

Employers also value many of the skills developed in the study of History. These skills include:

  • A high level of written communication
  • Planning and time management
  • Independent and critical thinking
  • Reasoned decision making
  • Recognition of different perspectives


History Careers

  • Film and Television
  • Law
  • Commerce
  • Politics
  • Education
  • Creative Arts
  • Publishing
  • Military and Defence
  • Academia
  • Government
  • Technology
  • Community Development



Click here to see a list of History and History-related university courses.

Click here to view episodes from the HTAV 'Why Study History?' Video series.


Sponsors & partners

  • Education Victoria - Sponsor Logo
  • National History Challenge - Sponsor Logo

We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Australians and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we live, learn and work. The HTAV Office is located on the lands of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. These lands were never ceded. We pay our respect to their ancestors and Elders, past and present.

Please note: Indigenous Australians are advised that the HTAV website may include images or names of people now deceased.