History

Overview

San Marcos offers a rich locale for public history practice with more than 50 history museums, archives, preservation organizations, and historic sites within a 100-mile radius, including The LBJ Presidential Library and Museum, the San Antonio Missions, the Bullock Texas State History Museum and the Texas State Library and Archives.

Students apply public history skills and methods to the study, documentation, preservation, and management of historical and cultural resources.

The mission of the History program at Texas State University is to shape exceptional scholars and broaden historical horizons by offering a rigorous program for students who are passionate about history and about furthering their education. Small classes and close mentoring with top research faculty mean a personalized graduate experience and access to a close-knit community of scholars. Hands-on learning immerses students in historiographical debates, tightens analytical and writing skills, and develops research abilities. The department is committed to the highest levels of academic excellence and to providing top-quality mentoring and training for its students.

Career Options

Graduate study in history develops written and verbal communication skills and analytical abilities that prepare students for a wide range of occupations. Although many graduates of the M.A. history program go on to careers in public and higher education, they also achieve professional success in business, industry, and government agencies.

Public History Concentration: This program prepares students for public history careers in a variety of settings and leads students to pursue doctoral studies. Graduates find professional employment in historic preservation, oral history, historic site interpretation, public programming, museums, and archives management.