The most linear path for a student pursuing a Ph.D. in history or English is a teaching position at the college level. Positions at large universities are not available readily, so many graduates choose to take jobs at community colleges or as visiting professors at universities around the world. A visiting professor is expected to teach a set number of courses at the university, and is paid for the work and often for living expenses. After gaining some teaching experience, a professorship is easier to obtain.
After getting a professorship, the next goal is to gain tenure. Tenure is a contract between the university and the professor that assures he cannot lose his job with the exception of mitigating circumstances. Tenure guarantees the right to academic freedom such as expressing opinions in the classroom or through research and writing that clash with the university.
Doctoral students in English and history learn about important documents in each field. These can include famous books and documents such as the Declaration of Independence. Museums and libraries that handle important documents need people to manage them. This document management entails ensuring that they are properly stored, analyzing the piece when it is procured, producing exhibits around the piece, loaning the piece out when requested, and tracking down other pieces of value. An information manager in either English or history works with documents in each respective field.
Getting a Ph.D. requires extensive writing in the form of papers, research proposals, and, the goal of all programs, the dissertation. With good writing and editing skills, research skills, and knowledge of either history or English, Ph.D. holders in either field can find jobs as writers. History majors can write historical textbooks, books, historical guides for regions around the world, and newspaper articles on current events. English majors can find jobs as editors for large publishing houses, write both non-fiction and fiction books, write English textbooks, and even write and edit speeches for CEOs and leaders. Both English and history majors can find work editing documentaries pertaining to their respective field.
Doctoral programs teach students to be analytical, and strong writers and communicators. These skills are necessary in any management position. With a Ph.D. in English or history, management positions in marketing, communications, media, and advertising companies are attainable. Management positions in academia, typically deans or department chairs, require a Ph.D.