Master of Arts in History (Public History)
Hours: 30 Online
About
The Master of Arts in History (Public History) at Fort Hays State University features a comprehensive online curriculum tailored for individuals seeking to deepen their knowledge of history with an emphasis on public applications. Offered fully online and asynchronously, the program provides flexible scheduling to accommodate working professionals and those with other commitments. Students engage with a wide range of public history topics, including museum studies, archival management, and historical preservation.
This program is ideal for those pursuing or advancing careers in public history fields such as museums, archives, and historical societies. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience, students develop the skills necessary to excel in various public history roles. The curriculum covers advanced research methods, current public history practices, and emerging trends, preparing graduates to meet professional challenges confidently.
Additionally, the M.A. in History (Public History) offers an accelerated pathway from a B.A. in History to the M.A. in History (Public History). This option enables high-achieving undergraduates to integrate advanced undergraduate and graduate coursework, facilitating a more efficient completion of the master’s degree. Faculty will identify exceptional students at the junior level to invite them into this accelerated program, supporting their academic advancement.
Why pursue a Master of Arts in History (Public History) at Fort Hays State University?
The M.A. in History (Public History) distinguishes itself through a combination of flexibility and practical experience. It's a fully online, asynchronous format that enables students to balance their studies with personal and professional responsibilities, making the program accessible to a diverse range of learners. Designed to accommodate both traditional students and working professionals, the program offers a comprehensive education in public history that can be customized to align with individual career objectives.
In addition to theoretical knowledge, the program emphasizes real-world applications through internships and project-based learning. Students develop valuable skills directly relevant to careers in museums, archives, and historical preservation. The curriculum is regularly updated to incorporate the latest advancements in the field, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to address contemporary challenges in public history. By focusing on practical skills and industry relevance, FHSU’s M.A. in History (Public History) prepares students to make meaningful contributions to the preservation and interpretation of history.
Who is this program for?
This program is designed for individuals passionate about history and interested in pursuing careers in the public history sector. It serves a diverse student body, including professionals currently working in the field who seek career advancement, as well as those transitioning into public history from other disciplines. With its flexible, fully online format, the program is accessible to students worldwide, accommodating varied schedules and locations.
- Aspiring museum professionals
- Historical consultants
- Cultural heritage professionals
- Educators and researchers
- Public historians
Learning Outcomes
The Master of Arts in History (Public History) program is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge needed for success in the field. Its learning outcomes ensure that graduates are thoroughly prepared to excel in a variety of professional roles within public history.
Explain Continuity and Change Over Time
Graduates can analyze and articulate how historical events and trends have evolved. This understanding is crucial for interpreting historical contexts and making informed decisions in public history roles. Students will engage with historical texts, artifacts, and case studies to develop a nuanced understanding of continuity and change.
Engage With Diverse Public Audiences
The program prepares students to communicate historical knowledge effectively to diverse public audiences. This includes developing strategies for public engagement, creating accessible and informative exhibits, and conducting outreach programs.
Real-World Applications
The M.A. in History (Public History) program is designed to equip students with practical skills that can be immediately applied in professional settings. Through internships and project-based learning, students gain hands-on experience in museums, archives, and other public history institutions. They are encouraged to pursue internship opportunities in their local areas, allowing them to engage directly with real-world challenges and opportunities in the field. This experiential learning prepares graduates to become effective and adaptable public historians.
Additionally, the program emphasizes applied research, teaching students not only historical theories but also how to implement them in practical contexts. This approach bridges the gap between academic study and professional practice, providing graduates with the tools necessary to excel in public history careers. By prioritizing practical applications, the program ensures that students are well-prepared to make meaningful contributions to their field upon graduation.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Staying current with the latest advancements in public history is a key focus of this program. The curriculum explores contemporary trends and technologies, ensuring that students are well-versed in modern practices within the field. This emphasis on innovation prepares graduates to become leaders and innovators in their careers.
Throughout the program, students engage in cutting-edge research and methodologies, keeping them aligned with evolving industry standards. Assignments and projects frequently incorporate digital tools, allowing students to develop highly sought-after skills for today’s job market. By integrating these elements into the curriculum, Fort Hays State University ensures that its graduates are knowledgeable and equipped to navigate and shape the future of public history.
Hands-on Activities
Hands-on learning is a key component of the M.A. in History (Public History) program. Internships offer students practical experience in professional environments such as museums and archives, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. These internships are essential for building professional networks and gaining a deeper understanding of the day-to-day operations within public history institutions.
Beyond internships, the program incorporates project-based assignments that simulate real-life scenarios. These projects help students develop critical skills in research, project management, and public engagement, better preparing them to meet the challenges of their future careers. By emphasizing practical experience, the program ensures that graduates are well-equipped to succeed in public history roles.
What You’ll Learn:
- Advanced public history methodologies
- Museum studies
- Historical preservation practices
How You’ll Learn:
- Interactive online coursework
- Practical internships
- Real-world project applications
- Asynchronous class flexibility
- Expert faculty guidance
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,139.02* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the FHSU Online Graduate tuition rate ($348.78/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Students interested in the M.A. in Public History may also explore related programs at Fort Hays State University. These programs provide complementary skills and knowledge that can broaden expertise and expand career opportunities in public history and related fields.
Information about the Department of History and Philosophy
The Department of History and Philosophy at FHSU provides a rich educational experience that equips students with critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills. Our History Programs offer in-depth courses that allow students to explore diverse historical contexts, preparing them for careers in education, research, public history, and beyond. Meanwhile, our Philosophy Programs challenge students to engage with fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, and values, fostering advanced problem-solving abilities and a reflective approach to life.
Together, these programs offer a holistic education that combines the study of the past with the pursuit of timeless philosophical inquiries. Graduates from these programs are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to society and are equipped with the intellectual tools to excel in a variety of careers.