Public History
Major
Why study public history at CMU?
We can only know where we’re going if we know where we’ve been. Dive into the political, economic, cultural and social life of past civilizations to enrich your understanding of the present — and the future. A public history degree prepares you to apply lessons from history to real-world problems.
Program Snapshot
Program Type: Full-Time
Location: On Campus
Program Length: 4 years
Credit Hours: 40 - 46
What is a public history degree?
A degree in public history is a dynamic field that prepares you to share your passion for the past with others. As a public historian, you could work as a writer, researcher, curator, archivist, or teacher, interpreting our shared heritage and shaping public understanding of the past.
Our public history degree program offers a strong foundation in core courses, such as:
- Archaeology of the Americas
- Role of History in Society
- Origins of the United States
You can also tailor your studies to your interests with electives in Indian cultures, oral history, natural resource management, and more.
Beyond the classroom, you'll have access to our Museum of Cultural and Natural History, a living laboratory where you can study historic artifacts, explore logging camps, and more.
You'll also gain hands-on experience through fieldwork, internships, and service-learning. Our graduates are equipped with the communication and analytical skills necessary for successful careers with a public history degree.
Getting hands on with a public history degree
As a public history student here, you'll:
- Conduct research at our very own Museum of Cultural and Natural History.
- Join our active student life groups such as History Club or Phi Alpha Theta to meet fellow history buffs, visit museums, watch movies and have fun!
- Participate in faculty-supervised, hands-on archeological field research.
What can you do with a degree in public history?
Our public history degree prepares you for a number of exciting professions—college professor, historian, museum curator, and many more.
| Career | Projected Salary |
|---|---|
| Archivist, Curator, or Museum Worker | $50,120 |
| Historian | $64,540 |
| Postsecondary Teacher | $79,640 |
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