Morehead State University

Programme overview

The BA in Public History prepares students to work at the intersection of historical scholarship and public audiences. Coursework typically combines historical methods with hands-on practice in archives, museums, historic preservation, and digital storytelling. Students learn to translate research for non-specialist audiences, manage collections, and develop public programs that connect communities with their pasts.

What you'll study

Study usually covers core topics in U.S. and global history alongside specialized public history subjects. Typical areas include archival theory and practice, museum studies, exhibit planning and interpretation, oral history methods, historic preservation, public programming, and digital humanities tools for presenting history online. Practical components often include internships, fieldwork, or capstone projects that place students in real cultural institutions.

Entry requirements

Undergraduate admission normally requires a secondary school diploma or equivalent and submission of an undergraduate application. Departments may expect a demonstrated interest in history through coursework or a portfolio, and standard university criteria such as GPA and any general application materials. Transfer students typically need transcripts and course descriptions for credit evaluation.

Career prospects

Graduates work in museums, archives, historic sites, cultural resource management, public programs, and education outreach. Job titles include museum technician or registrar, archival assistant, exhibit developer, education coordinator, historic site interpreter, and content creator for cultural institutions. With further study or experience, graduates may advance to curator, archivist (with professional credentials), preservation specialist, or roles in cultural policy and heritage management.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Students should explore institutional scholarships, departmental awards, and work-study opportunities offered by their university. Internships—paid or unpaid—may be funded through grants, stipends, or external fellowships tied to museums and archives. Professional associations in history and museum studies also list scholarships and travel grants that support fieldwork, research, and conference participation.