
Duquesne University

Pennsylvania
,United States

Program Name
MA in Public History
Overview

The Master of Arts in Public History at Duquesne University represents a transformative opportunity for students seeking to make a significant impact in the field of history. This comprehensive program is meticulously designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in various professional environments. With a rich curriculum that emphasizes both theory and practical application, students will explore the multifaceted nature of public history, including its role in society, the methods of historical interpretation, and the various media through which history is communicated. The program not only strives to produce knowledgeable historians but also encourages students to engage creatively with the past, making history accessible and relevant to contemporary audiences.
Duquesne University, located in the vibrant city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and its dedication to the liberal arts. The McAnulty College of Liberal Arts offers a nurturing environment where students are encouraged to think critically and innovatively. Through the Public History program, students will delve into a curriculum that covers a wide array of topics, including museum studies, archival science, and the use of digital media in historical documentation and presentation. With dedicated faculty members who are experts in their respective fields, students will benefit from personalized attention and mentorship throughout their academic journey.
The program curriculum includes core courses such as Introduction to Public History, which lays the foundational principles of the discipline, and Historical Methods, which equips students with the analytical tools necessary to conduct rigorous historical research. Students will have the choice to specialize further through elective courses such as Museum Practices, Digital History, and Community Engagement. These courses are designed to offer hands-on experiences, allowing students to work on real-world projects that often involve collaboration with local organizations, museums, and historical societies. By engaging in these practical experiences, students develop essential skills for their future careers while also contributing positively to their communities.
Duquesne University prides itself on offering numerous research opportunities that enhance the educational experience of its students. The university's rich collection of archives and special collections provides an invaluable resource for students engaged in historical research. Moreover, the program encourages students to present their work at conferences and publish in academic journals, offering platforms to share their findings with the broader scholarly community. Students may also participate in internships that offer direct experience in public history settings, such as museums, historical sites, and cultural institutions, thereby bridging the gap between academic theories and practical applications.
Beyond the academic framework, Duquesne University boasts a robust network of industry connections that facilitate internship and career opportunities for its graduates. The program collaborates with various organizations in the public history sector, ensuring that students gain access to valuable experiential learning. Graduates of the Public History program have successfully secured positions in a variety of sectors, including museums, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and educational institutions. Alumni testimonials highlight the program's effectiveness in preparing students for the real world, stating that the skills gained through coursework and internships are directly applicable in their careers.
Why Study Public History at Duquesne University? Here are several compelling reasons to consider this program:
- An esteemed program located in a historically rich city, providing a vibrant backdrop for studying public history.
- Access to distinguished faculty members who are not only educators but also active practitioners in the field.
- Comprehensive curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with practical experiences through hands-on learning and internship opportunities.
- Strong emphasis on research, allowing students to engage in meaningful projects that contribute to the field of public history.
- A supportive and diverse community, with a significant percentage of international students enhancing the educational experience.
- High graduate employability rate, backed by a robust alumni network that provides ongoing support and connections in the industry.
To be eligible for the MA in Public History program, prospective students should possess a bachelor’s degree in history, liberal arts, or a related field. Additional application requirements include a completed application form, a non-refundable application fee of $50, official transcripts, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. International students must also demonstrate proficiency in English, typically through standardized tests such as the IELTS with a minimum score of 6.5 or the TOEFL with a minimum score of 80.
The Master of Arts in Public History at Duquesne University stands out as an exceptional choice for students passionate about history and its public engagement. With an emphasis on practical application, research opportunities, and a supportive learning environment, this program prepares graduates to become leaders in the field of public history, capable of making a meaningful impact on society through their work. Armed with a well-rounded education and real-world experience, students are well-positioned to forge successful careers and contribute to the preservation and interpretation of our collective history.
Class Profile
Diversity
New York:
5%Others:
20%Pennsylvania:
65%Ohio:
10%Eligibility Criteria
English Proficiency Tests
IELTS
6.5
TOEFL
80
Application Requirements
Here's everything you need to know to ensure a complete and competitive application—covering the key documents and criteria for a successful submission.

Application Fee: 50
Application Deadlines
Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees
$24,534 / year
FAQs
- Admissions Requirements
To be eligible for the MA in Public History program at Duquesne University, prospective students should meet the following criteria:
- Possess a bachelor’s degree in history, liberal arts, or a related field.
- Complete the application form.
- Pay a non-refundable application fee of $50.
- Submit official transcripts.
- Provide a statement of purpose.
- Submit letters of recommendation.
- If applicable, demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests such as the IELTS with a minimum score of 6.5 or the TOEFL with a minimum score of 80.
- Program Curriculum
The curriculum for the Master of Arts in Public History includes:
- Core courses such as Introduction to Public History and Historical Methods.
- Elective courses like Museum Practices, Digital History, and Community Engagement.
- Opportunities for hands-on experiences through real-world projects in collaboration with local organizations, museums, and historical societies.
This comprehensive curriculum ensures students are well-equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills relevant to public history.
- Career Preparation
The Master of Arts in Public History program prepares students for their future careers through:
- Hands-on learning experiences that involve working on real-world projects.
- Internships that provide direct experience in public history settings, such as museums and historical sites.
- Research opportunities that allow students to engage in meaningful projects and present their work at conferences.
- A robust network of industry connections that facilitates internship and career opportunities.
Graduates are well-prepared to secure roles in various sectors including museums, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and educational institutions.
- Teaching Methods
The teaching methods used in the Master of Arts in Public History program include:
- Traditional lectures and seminars that cover theoretical aspects of public history.
- Hands-on learning through practical projects in collaboration with local organizations.
- Mentorship and personalized attention from dedicated faculty members who are experts in their fields.
- Opportunities for students to engage in research and present their findings, enhancing their learning experience.
These methods ensure that students gain a well-rounded education that blends theory with practice.
- Unique Aspects of the Program
Several unique aspects make the Master of Arts in Public History at Duquesne University stand out:
- Located in a historically rich city, providing a vibrant backdrop for studying public history.
- Access to distinguished faculty members who are active practitioners in the field.
- A strong emphasis on research and meaningful community engagement.
- A supportive and diverse community, enhancing the educational experience for students.
- High graduate employability rate, supported by a robust alumni network.
- Career Prospects
Graduates of the Master of Arts in Public History program have successfully secured positions in a variety of sectors, including:
- Museums
- Government agencies
- Non-profit organizations
- Educational institutions
Alumni testimonials indicate that the skills gained through coursework and internships are directly applicable in their careers, demonstrating the program's effectiveness in preparing students for the workforce.
- Research Opportunities
The Public History program at Duquesne University supports research opportunities through:
- Access to a rich collection of archives and special collections that provide invaluable resources for historical research.
- Encouragement for students to present their work at conferences and publish in academic journals.
- Participation in projects that contribute to the field of public history.
This focus on research enhances the educational experience and prepares students for advanced roles in history.
- Significance of Internships
Internships play a critical role in the Master of Arts in Public History program by:
- Providing direct experience in public history settings, such as museums, historical sites, and cultural institutions.
- Bridging the gap between academic theories and practical applications.
- Enhancing students' resumes and expanding their professional networks.
These opportunities allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts and better prepare them for future career opportunities.
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