Best Online Bachelors's In Public Applied History Programs (2024)

In a Public Applied History online bachelor's degree program, the curriculum is designed to blend theoretical knowledge with practical skills relevant to the field. Here are some of the typical courses you may encounter:

• Introduction to Public History

  • Explore the principles and practices of public history, focusing on the role of historians in various public contexts.

• Historical Research Methods

  • Learn about qualitative and quantitative research methodologies used in historical inquiry, including archiving and fieldwork techniques.

• Oral History

  • Gain insights into conducting interviews and preserving personal narratives, emphasizing ethics and the significance of storytelling.

• Museum Studies

  • Examine the operations and educational roles of museums, including exhibit design, curation, and audience engagement strategies.

• Heritage Management

  • Understand the preservation and advocacy of cultural resources, addressing policies, ethics, and the impact of heritage on communities.

• Digital History

  • Investigate the use of digital tools and technologies in presenting and disseminating historical research, including digital archives and online exhibits.

• Public Engagement and Advocacy

  • Study strategies for engaging diverse audiences, including outreach, community collaboration, and advocacy for the historical profession.

• Historic Preservation

  • Focus on the methods and regulations involved in preserving historical sites and structures, including the legal frameworks that guide preservation efforts.

• Ethics in History

  • Analyze ethical dilemmas faced by historians in practice, including debates surrounding representation, interpretation, and ownership of history.

• Capstone Project/Internship

  • Complete a culminating project or internship that integrates theoretical knowledge and practical application in a real-world setting, allowing you to demonstrate your skills and competencies.

These courses will help you build a solid foundation in public history and equip you with the necessary skills to succeed in various roles within this field.

Selecting the right institution for your online bachelor's degree in Public Applied History requires careful consideration of several factors. Follow these guidelines to ensure that you choose a program that meets your educational and professional objectives.

• Accreditation

  • Ensure the school you are considering is regionally accredited. This guarantees that the program meets specific academic standards and is recognized by employers and other institutions.
  • Verify if the Public Applied History program is specifically accredited or recognized by relevant professional organizations.

• Curriculum Focus

  • Review the curriculum to ensure it covers key areas such as historical research methods, public history practices, digital history, preservation, and interpretation.
  • Check for opportunities to work on projects that address real-world issues, allowing you to apply what you learn in practical settings.

• Faculty Credentials

  • Investigate the qualifications of the faculty members who will be teaching in the program. Look for professors with experience in both academia and the public history field.
  • Consider faculty members' research interests and publications to ensure their expertise aligns with your interests.

• Flexibility and Format

  • Evaluate the flexibility of course schedules. Some programs may offer asynchronous classes, allowing you to access materials and complete assignments at your convenience.
  • Consider whether you prefer a fully online format or if you are open to hybrid models that may include some on-campus requirements.

• Support Services

  • Look for schools that offer robust support services for online students, including academic advising, technical support, and access to library resources.
  • Check for career services that assist with internships, job placement, and networking opportunities in the public history sector.

• Cost and Financial Aid

  • Compare tuition rates and fees among different schools, keeping in mind additional costs such as textbooks, technology fees, or travel for on-site projects.
  • Research financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and work-study programs specifically available for online students.

• Alumni Network

  • Investigate the strength and engagement of the alumni network. A strong network can provide valuable connections and job opportunities after graduation.
  • Assess whether the program facilitates networking through events, workshops, or online platforms.

• Student Reviews and Outcomes

  • Look for student reviews and testimonials to gauge the overall satisfaction with the program.
  • Research graduation rates and job placement statistics to understand the program's effectiveness in preparing students for careers in public history.

• Internship Opportunities

  • Inquire about internship placements that the program offers. Practical experience is vital in the public history field and can greatly enhance your resume.
  • Determine if the program has partnerships with museums, government agencies, and historical sites that could facilitate internship opportunities.

By focusing on these key areas, you will be better equipped to choose a school and program that align with your aspirations and values in Public Applied History.

When pursuing an online bachelor's degree in Public Applied History, numerous resources and tools can enhance your learning experience and support your journey. Here are some key resources to consider:

• Online Libraries and Journals
  Access to extensive academic resources can facilitate research and coursework:

  • JSTOR – A digital library offering access to thousands of academic journals, books, and primary sources.
  • Project MUSE – A leading provider of digital humanities and social science content, featuring journals and books.

• Professional Associations
  Engage with organizations that provide networking, resources, and professional development:

  • American Historical Association (AHA) – Offers academic resources, resources for career advancement, and annual meetings for networking.
  • National Council on Public History (NCPH) – Provides professional resources, including job listings, project examples, and a community of public historians.

• Online Learning Tools
  Explore tools that can enhance your educational experience:

  • Coursera – Features courses from universities and industry leaders that can supplement your studies in history and related fields.
  • Khan Academy – Provides free educational resources, including video lectures and practice exercises on various historical topics.

• Webinars and Conferences
  Participate in online events to learn more and connect with professionals in the field:

  • Al American Historical Association Webinars – Offers free and recorded webinars on various historical topics and methodologies.
  • National Council on Public History Conference – An annual conference that features sessions relevant to public history.

• Internships and Volunteering Opportunities
  Gaining practical experience is essential in this field:

  • Public History Internship Listings – A resource by the NCPH for finding public history internships across the country.
  • Local Historical Societies – Explore opportunities with local historical societies or museums in your area to gain hands-on experience.

• Career Services and Guidance
  Utilize career resources offered by your institution:

  • CareerOneStop – Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, this site provides tools for job seekers, including resume writing and interview tips.
  • University Career Services – Most universities have dedicated career services to assist students in job searches, resume building, and interview preparation.

• Online Forums and Communities
  Engage in discussions and seek guidance from peers and professionals:

  • Reddit – r/PublicHistory – A community for public historians to share resources, ask questions, and discuss topics related to the field.
  • LinkedIn Groups for Historians – Connect with professionals and fellow students in history-focused groups.

These resources will provide you with the necessary support and connection to excel in your online bachelor's degree in Public Applied History. Take full advantage of them to enhance your knowledge and experience in the field.