Public History Track (within the M.A. in Historical Studies)

What is Public History?

Public history is a collaborative form of historical scholarship. Public historians apply professional research and interpretive skills to projects that serve the public interest. Public historians produce historical narratives in active collaboration with a variety of stakeholders –audiences, funders, governments, teachers, etc –in order to make the past meaningful and useful. 

The Public History Track is an option for students pursuing the Master of Arts in Historical Studies. Students in the public history track explore large issues of ethics and professionalism that shape work in the public sector. Students in the public history track acquire specialized experience in the field of public history, and can select projects and courses that meet their particular interests, including archival research, exhibition development, oral history, and preservation policy.

Students in the M.A. in Historical Studies seeking the Public History Track certificate must complete the following designated 9 credits within the overall 30 credits required for the Masters degree:

HIST 705 Introduction to Public History [3-credits]

Offered each Spring, this course is a survey of the practice of history in public venues, including government agencies, historical societies, archives, museums, businesses, and various professional organizations. Intended to provide students with a broad survey of such historical practice and the tools to explore chosen specialties in depth, the course addresses intellectual as well as practical issues.

HIST 711 Practices in Public History [3-credits]

Offered each semester, this course is taught by currently practicing public history professionals. Individual themes vary by semester and may include: Historic Tourism & Heritage, The Historian in Private Practice, Museum Studies, Historic Preservation and Cultural Resources Management, Cyberspace and New Media, Federal, State and Local Government, Oral History, Documentary Editing, and others.

HIST 790 Internship / Practicum [1 internship @ 3-credits]

Each student in the Public History Track must serve at least one internship. Student internships need the approval of a faculty advisor. Complete and turn-in the Internship Contract Form prior to beginning an assignment.

For additional information about the Public History Track/MA please contact:

Prof. Denise Meringolo, PHT Coordinator

(410) 455-2058

Email: ddm@umbc.edu