The Public History and Cultural Heritage MA programme provides a structured academic approach to public or applied history. The programme equips students with knowledge and transferrable skills needed to understand and practice history in the public domain, in ‘real world’ settings outside of academia. It combines conceptual, methodological and practice-based modules, engaging with contemporary issues in public history and cultural heritage. The programme also includes training on academic, practical, and ethical aspects of historical research and presentation.

 

The Public History and Cultural Heritage MA programme is offered as a one-year full-time or two-year part-time postgraduate degree programme (online/blended). The programme is delivered through a combination of modern learning modes, including dialogic learning, active and inquiry-based learning, community interaction, problem-solving and creativity, media literacy, reflective practice, and self-directed learning. Graduates attain a globally-recognised postgraduate qualification in a cutting-edge area of historical practice.

 

What will students learn?
The programme has been designed to include a combination of conceptual, methodological and practice-based modules, thus broadening the student’s intellectual and scholarly experience. The modules engage with contemporary issues in public history and cultural heritage, including controversies, collaborations, and communications. Students learn about public uses and abuses of the past, what this means in theory and in practice, applying knowledge and skills they acquire to their own learning goals.

 

On successful completion of the programme, graduates will be able to:

• Comprehend key themes and practices in the areas of public history and cultural heritage.
• Develop understanding of the ethical issues around the practice and consumption of history in the public sphere and in the area of cultural heritage.
• Critically evaluate key issues in practice and research relevant to areas of public history and cultural heritage.
• Demonstrate digital public history literacy and competencies.
• Acquire knowledge applicable to museum/archival collections and exhibits.
• Appreciate issues around the conservation and protection of cultural heritage sites and objects.
• Build a range of skills and competencies for working in public history and/or cultural heritage.
• Display practical and cultural competence to work in public history and cultural heritage.
• Engage in practitioner-based research that contributes to the growth of national and international research in public history and/or cultural heritage.
• Develop the art of academic writing and advanced historical research skills.
• Apply skills and insights acquired during the programme to present research to publication standard.