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Best Colleges and Universities in the World for Public/Applied History

Matthew Lynch
Worlds Best Colleges and Universities

As the field of public and applied history continues to grow, more and more colleges and universities are offering programs tailored to students interested in pursuing careers in history outside of academia. From museum curation to historical preservation, there’s no shortage of exciting opportunities for graduates with a background in public and applied history. To help you on your journey, we’ve put together a list of some of the best colleges and universities in the world for public and applied history.

1. American University – Washington, D.C.

American University is known for its strong program in public history, which allows students to gain hands-on experience in a variety of fields including cultural resource management, museum education, and archival work. Students can also participate in research projects and internships, giving them valuable real-world experience before they graduate.

2. University of California, Santa Barbara – California

The University of California, Santa Barbara has a top-notch program in public history that emphasizes community engagement and collaboration. Students are encouraged to work with local organizations and museums to gain experience in areas like exhibit design and interpretation.

3. University of Massachusetts, Amherst – Massachusetts

The University of Massachusetts, Amherst offers a multidisciplinary program in public history that prepares students for a variety of careers, from working in museums to consulting for government agencies. The program emphasizes the role of history in shaping public policy and encourages students to explore innovative and creative approaches to sharing history with diverse audiences.

4. University of Manchester – United Kingdom

The University of Manchester has a well-regarded program in applied history that places a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on training. Students can choose from a variety of courses, including cultural heritage management, oral history, and digital history, and have the opportunity to work with local organizations and museums on projects.

5. University of Technology, Sydney – Australia

The University of Technology, Sydney offers a unique program in heritage conservation that focuses on the preservation and restoration of historic buildings and landscapes. Students gain the technical skills needed to work in this field while also exploring the deeper social and cultural significance of heritage sites.

6. Royal Holloway, University of London – United Kingdom

Royal Holloway has a well-respected program in public history that emphasizes the importance of engaging with diverse audiences and creating inclusive exhibits and programs. Students have the opportunity to gain experience working with a variety of cultural institutions and organizations, from museums to government agencies.

7. University of Cape Town – South Africa

The University of Cape Town has a program in heritage and public culture that focuses on the unique challenges facing the preservation and interpretation of history in postcolonial societies. Students learn how to navigate the complexities of working with diverse communities to create meaningful and impactful public history initiatives.

Choosing the right college or university is an important decision, especially when it comes to pursuing a career in public and applied history. With diverse programs and hands-on training opportunities, these colleges and universities are among the best in the world for students interested in this exciting field.