History is one of the most popular subjects to study at the University of Edinburgh, but where can it take you? How can studying the past shape your future?We asked some History alumni to find out how where they are now, how studying the subject got them there and how they use the skills learned in their day-to-day work. US-based MSc in History (Online Learning) alumna Anna made the career change from operations management to Research Historian at Boeing.“If anybody is looking for a really good online programme that gives them that community feel but also the flexibility to do things they need to do, like work, this one is definitely going to be beneficial.” Read Anna's alumni story Fergal's studies hit a high note at Edinburgh, and equipped him for a career in foreign affairs in Higher Education.Being able to think critically, research effectively and manage a group of people in pursuit of a common goal are all skills I learned in Edinburgh. Read Fergal's alumni story Nghia turned a student passion into a career thanks to skills learned during his History (MA Hons) degree.Being in Edinburgh for four years played a huge transformative role in my personal development. Read Nghia's alumni story Having chosen Edinburgh to pursue her passion for American History, Gabi found herself in the midst of a global pandemic.The University's approach to virtual learning and the profound empathy and support from professors during this time exemplified the community spirit of Edinburgh. Read Gabi's alumni story Tell us about your alumni lifeWe would like to build a library of career profiles to help current students to plan their futures. Can you help by sharing your story? Whether you have recently graduated or have been away from the University for some time we are interested to hear from you.Get in touch to find out more about sharing your story. School of History, Classics and Archaeology Contact details Email: alumni-hca@ed.ac.uk Where are they now? Selected history alumni profiles Here are some of our History graduates who have shared their alumni profiles. Why not add yours with the form above?Peter Symms, MSc by Research and PhD 1987 and 2016Tom Nash, History 2015Imogen Thomas, History 2015Elizabeth Smith, Economic and Social History 2014Catherine Thomas, MA History, MSc Historical Research, PhD American History 1999; 2000; 2009Adam Burns, MSc by Research 2006 and PhD American History 2010Beth Hurrell, History 2010Charlie Kennard, Economic History 2008Oliver Barsby, History 2004James Thomas, History 2004Alexander F. G. Newberry, MA Medieval History 2003Elaine Thomson, MA History, MSc Sociology, PhD Social History of Medicine 1991; 1992; 1998Daniel Pembrey Cooper, Economic and Social History 1993Andrew Needham, History and Politics 1992Adrian Searle, MA History and History of Art 1989Linsay Given Black (née Harrow), MA Hons History 1982Kirsty Wark, History 1976Ann West, MA History and English 1966 This article was published on 2025-03-27
