A history teacher is someone who instructs students on historical events, usually in high school or at a lower academic level. Students learn about past civilizations, historical events, cultures, and political structures from this person. He educates students on topics such as ancient languages and religious practices. He also discusses and explains previous wars, rulers, and major social changes. A history teacher will also discuss past dress styles, work, food, celebrations, and family life.
Some history teachers prefer to work with children in elementary schools. History teachers may teach ancient history, world history, and local history to elementary school students in some places. They could be about major wars, rulers, or historical events that shaped the world or a specific region. In other places, however, elementary school teachers do not instruct their students on a single topic. In addition to history, they must teach other fundamental subjects such as science, math, and writing.
History teachers who teach in middle or high school frequently focus solely on history. At this level, a history teacher, for example, might teach several history classes per day rather than staying with one group of students all day. Some teachers may teach only one history subject, such as world or ancient history, while others may cover multiple history subjects in a single day, switching subjects each time a new group of students enters the classroom.
Some history professors instruct students at a higher level, such as in college or graduate school. This type of history instructor is known as a history professor and teaches highly specialized history subjects. A college history professor, for example, might teach medieval history, Middle Eastern history, European or American history. Some professors specialize in one type of history or a specific period of history, while others teach a wide range of courses and span multiple historical periods.
To work as a history teacher in most places, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree. An education degree or a history degree with a minor in education may be required for teaching in elementary school. Teachers in middle school and high school are typically required to have a bachelor’s degree in a history-related subject. Professors of history typically hold advanced degrees in the subject, with many starting their careers with a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.). Some colleges may hire master’s degree holders as instructors, particularly if they will be assisting other professors or teaching part-time.