Applied History and Public Humanities The University of Akron

Overview

The Applied History and Public Humanities at The University of Akron provides a comprehensive professional education for those seeking to bridge the gap between academic history and public engagement. This advanced degree is uniquely structured to offer students both a Master of Arts and a Certificate in Public Humanities upon completion.

The curriculum is designed to be deeply interdisciplinary, merging rigorous historical content with practical methodology. Students engage in hands-on work that prepares them for the complexities of the modern cultural sector. The programme requires the completion of 31 credit hours, ensuring a robust foundation in both theory and practice.

A significant component of the academic journey involves experiential learning through high-level institutional partnerships.

Why Applied History and Public Humanities at The University of Akron?

The University of Akron holds a distinctive position as the only state university in Ohio to offer this specific combination of a Master’s degree and a Public Humanities certificate. This dual qualification provides graduates with a competitive edge in the regional and national job markets.

Students have access to exceptional facilities, most notably the Smithsonian-affiliated Center for the History of Psychology. This partnership allows for direct experience in archival management and exhibit design. Such resources ensure that the learning environment is grounded in professional standards and real-world applications.

The teaching approach emphasises a diverse skillset, moving beyond traditional classroom boundaries. By integrating digital media production and project management into the historical framework, the institution ensures that its scholars are versatile. This distinctive focus on applied skills makes the programme a leader in the field.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 803 per credit
• National fee: USD 803 per credit
• Local fee: USD 483 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Applied History
• Public Humanities
• Archives
• Exhibit Design
• Historical Theory
• Historical Methodology
• Fundraising
• Digital Media Development and Production
• Grant Writing
• Project Management

Careers with Applied History and Public Humanities

Graduates are well-prepared for a variety of professional roles within museums, archives, and educational institutions. The training provided supports careers in the non-profit sector, government agencies, and research organisations. The programme focuses on roles with positive growth projections in the cultural heritage industry.

Common career paths for alumni include working as professional archivists, curators, or historians. The versatile nature of the degree also allows graduates to excel as social science research assistants or administrative managers. The skills gained are highly applicable to modern workplace demands in the public and private sectors.

Furthermore, the curriculum prepares individuals for specialist roles such as event planners, fundraising managers, and public relations specialists. Many students also choose to use this Master of Arts as a foundation for further professional study or doctoral research. The diverse skillset ensures readiness for a wide range of leadership positions.