I’m wondering if I, for example, received a bachelors in history, then took a PhD in communications. Would I still be able to us my bachelors in history as a fallback for a job if my communications job does not work out? (
Yes… although employers aren’t knocking down the doors specifically for history majors, unless maybe you want to teach. But the skills you learn in a history major (writing, analysis) can be useful in the job market.
Keep in mind, though, that if you’re applying for a job that requires a Bachelor’s, having a PhD may make you overqualified (consequently, employers may be less willing to hire you). To get around this, one could simply leave the PhD off their resume, but then they would have to somehow explain the 6+ year gap on their resume, which is also troublesome.
Why don’t you do a double major in History and Communications? Then you are qualified for both, and can continue in the PhD in whichever you perfer/need.
^^ great suggestion
Yes, of course you can.
Why not look at what jobs are available before doing anything else. It is better to do that then to hope fate is on your side or some such. Search job listing and take a look at salaries and requirements.