Public History Certificate

The Public History Certificate at the University of North Dakota combines theoretical and hands-on training to prepare students for careers in public history, including museums, archives, and cultural resource management. This certificate enables students to demonstrate knowledge, skills, and abilities valued within the profession.

Program Details

• Program type: Certificates/Programs - Undergraduate
• Format: On Campus
• Estimated time to complete: 1 year
• Credit hours: 18

Why Earn a Public History Certificate

Public history makes the past interesting and relevant for everyone, not just scholars. Unlike academic history, which can be more focused and research-oriented, public history is about sharing historical knowledge with a broader audience. The certificate program aims to provide job experience for students in a BA program in History or a related field, as well as for people with a degree looking to gain real-world experience.

Complementary Majors

Pairing the Public History certificate with a complementary major can enhance skills and career opportunities. Some bachelor's degrees to consider include:

• Anthropology: Provides a broad understanding of human societies and prepares students for a career in cultural resource management.
• Classical Studies: Offers a strong foundation for understanding the roots of Western culture and history.
• Communication: Helps students effectively communicate historical narratives to diverse audiences.
• Environmental Geoscience: Offers insights into how geological and environmental factors have influenced historical events.
• Geography: Studies the spatial dimensions of historical events, making it relevant for those interested in historical geography and mapping.
• History: Provides a solid foundation in historical analysis and research, complementing the practical skills gained through the Public History certificate.

Public History Certificate at UND

The Public History certificate at the University of North Dakota provides:

• Practical training from experienced faculty in different aspects of public history.
• A flexible, interdisciplinary program.
• Skills employers seek through hands-on activities and real-world projects.

Career Paths

The Public History certificate can prepare students for careers in:

• Archivist: Managing and preserving historical documents, records, and artifacts in archives, libraries, or other institutions.
• Museum creator: Working in museums as a curator, historian, or educator, creating exhibits, conducting research, and educating the public about historical events.
• Collections manager: Overseeing the management, organization, and care of historical collections, including acquiring, cataloging, and preserving artifacts.
• Conservator: Specializing in the preservation and restoration of historical artifacts, artworks, and documents.
• Digital historian: Using digital platforms to curate and share historical content online, contributing to the digitization of historical records and resources.

Public History Certificate Courses

Some courses available in the Public History certificate program include:

• History of Stuff (HIST 253): Interpreting historic objects from ancient tools to modern toys and trash, researching, writing, and publishing findings online.
• Monuments, Museums, and Memory (HIST 310): Exploring how museums and public monuments influence our understanding of the past through case studies and role-playing games.
• Introduction to Archaeology (ANTH 172): Investigating past cultures using artifacts, including field and laboratory techniques for collecting evidence and interpreting the past.
• Public History Practice (HIST 481): A practicum where students learn public history work techniques through experience.

University of North Dakota: A Summary

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Overview:

The University of North Dakota (UND) is the state's oldest and largest university, offering over 225 accredited on-campus and online degrees. It is known for its commitment to student leadership and fostering a welcoming and inclusive campus environment.

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Services Offered:

UND provides a range of support services for students, including:

Diversity and Inclusion:

UND values diverse perspectives and actively promotes a sense of belonging for all students.

TRIO Programs:

Support for first-generation and Pell-eligible students to help them succeed at UND.

Pride Center:

Resources and support for the LGBTQ+ community on campus.

Disability Resources:

Equal opportunities for qualified students with disabilities to participate in all UND activities.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UND emphasizes student leadership and provides opportunities for students to make a positive impact. The campus offers a vibrant community with various student organizations and activities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Academic Excellence:

UND offers a wide range of highly accredited programs, including specialized fields like Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations, Data Science, and Forensic Science.

Affordability:

UND consistently ranks among the best for educational quality and affordability.

Career Outcomes:

UND prepares students for successful careers with strong emphasis on practical skills and real-world experience.

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Academic Programs:

UND offers a diverse range of academic programs, with notable strengths in:

Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations:

A cutting-edge program in a rapidly growing industry.

Data Science:

A high-demand field with strong career prospects.

Economics:

A solid foundation for careers in law, business, and other fields.

Forensic Science:

Immersive program with hands-on experience in forensic labs.