Applied History, MA
Shippensburg University’s Master of Arts in Applied History trains students as museum professionals, cultural resource managers, and community researchers. The program provides limitless hands-on-learning opportunities at on-campus historical sites and with community partners, so that our graduates can use their skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact on the world.
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What Will I Learn?
Students can complete this 30-credit degree in approximately one-and-a-half years of full-time study (part-time enrollment also welcome). The program prepares both educators and those pursuing public history through professional training in historical research, writing and practice. Students may also pursue real-world experiences through fieldwork, community based projects, and professional internships. Graduates have applied their expertise to careers in education, government, and at reputable museums and historical sites.
What Kinds of Experiences Could I Have?
Applied History faculty are dedicated to helping you tailor your experience - considering and developing your unique interests to prepare you for a world of professional possibilities. Our faculty supports students with personalized attention and advisement.
Shippensburg is nearby many historically rich sites offering opportunities for research and internships. The program will inspire you with diverse and interesting coursework. Combined coursework and opportunities offer great hands-on experiences such as:
- Involvement with student groups and activities
- Research
- Internships
- Volunteer work
- Service-learning
Internship Opportunities
- Gettysburg National Military Park
- The United States Army Heritage and Education Center
- The Pennsylvania State Museum
- Shippensburg Station and the Cumberland Valley Railroad
Museum - The Fashion Archives and Museum of Shippensburg
University
What Types of Careers Could I Get With This Degree?
Graduates have secured teaching positions at community colleges, received admission to doctoral programs, obtained positions in both the public and private sector, and started public history careers with local and county historical societies as well as national sites.
Some specific jobs include:
- Archivist
- Museum educator
- Museum curator
- Collection manager
- Historic preservationist
- Historical administrator
- Historical interpreters
Graduate credits can fulfill Act 48 requirements and can be applied toward permanent certification in teaching or toward work on a doctorate or other advanced degree.