I'm passionate about teaching history and am looking into career paths that combine this with a military context. Does anyone know if there are teaching positions for history in the military or related programs?
Yes, there are several opportunities for those interested in teaching history in a military setting.
One option is to serve as an educator at the United States service academies, such as the U.S. Military Academy (West Point), U.S. Naval Academy, and the U.S. Air Force Academy. These institutions typically have history departments where you could teach history to cadets. It's worth noting that faculty positions at these institutions can be both military and civilian roles, so it may not require you to enlist or commission.
Another possibility is serving as an instructor within the Defense Department's school system, the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA). DoDEA operates schools worldwide for military-dependent children, from pre-K to high school, and they employ teachers across a variety of subjects, including history.
Alternatively, you might consider roles within military education and training centers, where military personnel receive ongoing professional development. While not strictly history, there are often opportunities to teach topics like military history or the historical context of conflict and warfare.
In all cases, whether a civilian teaching position within the military or a position teaching in a military-related institution, relevant degree qualifications, teaching certification, and security clearance may be required. For opportunities abroad, knowing more than one language can be helpful, too. There may also be an advantage if you are already a veteran or currently in the military due to your firsthand knowledge and experience of the military lifestyle and context.
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