Program Overview

Introduction to Museums, Heritage, and Public History

The University of Missouri-St. Louis offers a graduate program in Museums, Heritage, and Public History. This program has been training heritage and cultural professionals for the past two decades, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary for satisfying careers in the St. Louis region, the Midwest, and across the United States.

Program Overview

The program draws on the disciplines of History, Anthropology, Archaeology, Digital Humanities, and Art History, providing students with a well-rounded education. Students also gain substantial applied experience through Graduate Research Assistantships and internships. The core faculty members and community partners sustain this innovative program, providing emerging museum and cultural professionals with the theories, skills, and experience needed to launch successful careers.

Curriculum and Approach

Faculty in the program lead students through project-based learning grounded in public history methods and with a commitment to social justice-inflected cultural work. This approach enables students to develop a deep understanding of museum theory and practice, as well as the skills to apply this knowledge in real-world settings.

Career Opportunities

The program prepares students for a variety of careers in museums, heritage, and public history. Graduates have gone on to work in museums, cultural institutions, and other organizations, applying their skills and knowledge to curate exhibits, develop educational programs, and advocate for diverse voices and perspectives.

Testimonials

Alumni of the program have praised its emphasis on both theoretical and practical training. For example:

• Alyssa Wilson, Alumna, noted that the program offered opportunities to study museum theory in the classroom and gain real-world work experience in a museum or institution.
• Molly Wawrzyniak, Alumna, appreciated the approachable and mentoring nature of the faculty and staff.
• Nicole Dial-Kay, Alumna, valued the program's focus on teamwork and collaboration, which prepared her to work effectively as a member of a team.

Program Details

The Museums, Heritage, and Public History program at the University of Missouri-St. Louis is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in the field. The program includes:

• A Master of Arts (MA) in Museums, Heritage, and Public History
• A Graduate Certificate in Museum Studies
• Opportunities for Graduate Research Assistantships and internships
• A commitment to social justice-inflected cultural work and public history methods