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The public history concentration is designed for you if you are a graduate student primarily interested in a career in archival administration or museum management. It provides you with both theoretical and practical training in these areas.
Public historians apply their skills and knowledge outside of academic or classroom settings. The public history concentration at Wright State integrates a traditional history curriculum with courses taught by professionals in archives, museum studies, and historic preservation; an internship; and a project leading to a Master of Arts degree in history with a specialization in public history.
For more information, please contact:
Sean Pollock, Ph.D.
Associate Professor and Director, History Graduate Program
937-775-2325
sean.pollock@wright.edu
Graduates of the Public History concentration pursue careers in museums, historical societies, federal, state and local archives, state and federal park services, corporations, universities and public programs in history education.
The public history internship experience is designed to allow you to gain valuable experience as a public historian, as well as the opportunity to learn “on the job” and to network within the profession. Internships can be completed in a variety of settings such as museums, archives, libraries, historic sites, etc. and must provide the student with a variety of professional level work experience. Internships are normally completed between the first and second year of the public history program of study. You must meet the pre-requisites for the internship as listed in the catalog. Internship Guidelines (PDF)
 Erix Infante, a graduate history student, plans to pursue a career creating exhibitions for museums after he graduates from Wright State. |
 2010 Wright State grad Jeremy Feador has front-row seat as Cleveland Indians chase history. |
View the Master of Arts in History program information and requirements in the Academic Catalog.
Students in public history are required to complete a capstone project in place of the traditional master’s thesis. The project is the culmination of your graduate career and should reflect a strong command of academic knowledge and professional training. You should carefully select and plan a public history project that will not only demonstrate your level of achievement but be a significant contribution to the field. Capstone Project Guidelines (PDF)
New graduate students will be admitted in the Fall Semester of each year. Applications must be made online to the Wright State University Graduate School.
Graduate tuition scholarships are available, and all applications for this scholarship are considered. Apply for graduate assistantships during the spring semester of your first year.
In addition to fulfilling the Graduate School requirements, you must submit a statement of goals, three letters of recommendation, and a writing sample. These will also be uploaded electronically to the Graduate School.
Please note that the history department does not require the Graduate Record Exam (GRE).
Please feel free to contact the history program with any additional questions.
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