Public History MA, PGDip, PGCert

Program Overview

St Mary's University's Public History program delves into the understanding of the past through diverse contexts and sources, equipping students with critical thinking and research skills for careers in public history, heritage, and related fields. The program offers unique access to The National Archives and London's museums, providing practical experience through field visits and work placements. Graduates are well-prepared for successful careers in prestigious institutions and further study at the PhD level.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview: This program delves into the understanding of the past through a diverse range of contexts and sources, covering topics such as production and function of public histories, narratives, representation, memory, and heritage sites.
• Objectives:
• Equip students with the ability to investigate and analyze diverse historical narratives and representations.
• Develop critical thinking and research skills related to public history.
• Prepare students for professional careers in public history, heritage, and related fields.
• Program Description:
• The program is offered as a full-time MA, a part-time PGDip, or a part-time PGCert.
• It can be completed in one year for the MA and two years for the PGDip and PGCert.
• Students can explore London's museums and heritage sites through field visits and partnerships.
• Work placements are available at various institutions, including Hampton Court Palace, Strawberry Hill House, Turner's House, Benjamin Franklin House, Household Cavalry Museum, and The National Archives.

Outline:

• Course Content:
• The program covers a wide range of topics related to public history, including:
• The production and function of public histories
• Narratives and representation
• Memory and history
• Heritage sites
• Digital history
• Oral history
• Museum studies
• Public archaeology
• Modules offered may vary each year.
Examples of modules include:
• Making the Past: Narrative, Representation, Interpretation
• Heritage Spaces: Making and Meanings
• Memory, History, Testimony
• Public History Dissertation
• Professional Project
• Structure:
• The MA program consists of 180 credits, including 120 credits of taught modules and 60 credits for the dissertation.
• The PGDip program consists of 120 credits of taught modules.
• The PGCert program consists of 60 credits of taught modules.
• Course Schedule:
• The program is offered full-time over one year or part-time over two years.
• Full-time students typically take two modules per semester.
• Part-time students typically take one module per semester.
• Modules:
• Making the Past: Narrative, Representation, Interpretation:
This module explores the ways in which the past is represented and interpreted in public settings.
• Heritage Spaces: Making and Meanings: This module examines the creation and meaning of heritage sites.
• Memory, History, Testimony: This module explores the relationship between memory, history, and testimony.
• Public History Dissertation: This is an independent research project on a topic related to public history.
• Professional Project: This project allows students to apply their skills and knowledge to a real-world public history project.

Assessment:

• Assessment Methods:
• The program uses a variety of assessment methods, including essays, book reviews, presentations, research projects, and exhibitions.
• The specific assessment methods used for each module will be outlined in the module handbook.
• Assessment Criteria:
• The assessment criteria will vary depending on the assessment method used.
• Generally, students will be assessed on their knowledge and understanding of the subject matter, their ability to analyze and critically evaluate information, their research skills, their writing and communication skills, and their ability to apply their knowledge to real-world situations.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods:
• The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops, field trips, and individual supervision.
• The specific teaching methods used for each module will be outlined in the module handbook.
• Faculty:
• The program is taught by a team of experienced academics with expertise in public history.
• The faculty are committed to providing students with a high-quality learning experience.
• Unique Approaches:
• Students can explore London's museums and heritage sites through field visits and partnerships.
• Work placements are available at various institutions, providing students with practical experience in the field.

Careers:

• Career Paths:
• Graduates of the program can pursue careers in a variety of fields, including:
• Archives
• Heritage
• Education
• The media
• Museums
• Public history consultancy
• Research
• Opportunities:
• The program offers a number of opportunities for students to develop their career prospects, including:
• Work placements
• Guest lectures from industry professionals
• Careers advice and guidance
• Alumni network
• Outcomes:
• Graduates of the program are well-prepared for successful careers in public history and related fields.
• Many graduates go on to work in prestigious institutions, such as The National Archives, the British Museum, and the BBC.

Other:

• Public History MA webinar and Q&A - 8th May 2024, 05:00PM
• The program is offered in September 2024.
• Funding opportunities are available for both UK and international students.

• Home: £9,900
• International: £17,640