We recently caught up with the Department of History to find out more about MA in Public History.

Q1. What areas can students expect to study in MA Public History?

Students can expect to cover a diverse and wide-ranging array of themes and topics relating to all aspects of Public History. Our core module, ‘Pathways to the Past’, guides students through some of the key questions and concepts at the forefront of contemporary public history practices, such as public history and social media, heritage and identity, creating and using diverse public histories, and commemoration and remembrance. In addition, through our innovative ‘Final Project’ module, each student is able to pursue their own interests within Public History in order to create their own Public History project for an external audience.

 

Q2. What do you think makes this course different from similarly titled courses on offer across the UK?

 Ours is the longest-running and most established MA in Public History in the UK. It is also the most applied, in that students learn a variety of practical skills to complement the rigorous theoretical foundations on which the programme is built. For example, during their degree each student will develop the skills and techniques required to produce a radio programme to broadcasting standard. Through the ‘Voice of the Publics’ module students learn how to utilise oral history theory and method in public history, undertaking their own oral history interviews while gaining skills and experience in group projects.

 

Q3. What are the entry requirements for this degree? 

The standard entry requirement is a 2:1 in a relevant field.

Candidates with professional qualifications and work experience in an associated area will also be considered.

• Applicants come from a diverse range of backgrounds and we accept a broad range of qualifications (including first degrees in subjects other than History).
• We occasionally invite candidates to an interview when we would like more information upon which to base a decision. If applicants are unable to attend, such as overseas students, we interview by telephone.

Normally we require a UK 2:1 (Honours) or equivalent in relevant subjects but we will consider a high 2:2 or relevant work experience where a strong case can be made via the personal statement. Candidates with professional qualifications in an associated area may be considered. Where a ‘high 2:2’ is considered, we would normally define this as reflecting a profile of 57% or above.

A piece of written work may be required from applicants who do not meet the standard academic requirements.

In all cases applications must include a personal statement, through which applicants demonstrate their interest and engagement in Public History.

 

Q4. What prospects would students studying this course benefit from?

On completion of your MA in Public History at Royal Holloway you will be equipped to pursue a career in broadcasting or film, in museums, heritage, with community organisations or in journalism. You will also have started to develop a valuable network of producers and representatives from production companies and links within the industry. Our graduates are highly employable and, in recent years, have entered many different areas, including working for an MP, as a Heritage Officer, teaching and marketing. This course also equips you with a solid foundation for continued PhD studies.