Introduction
Public History, also sometimes known as “applied history,” includes the production and presentation of historical interpretations for the general public and for more specialized audiences. Many historical consultants, museum professionals, government historians, archivists, oral historians, cultural resource managers, curators, video and media producers, historic preservationists, policy advisors, and local historians consider themselves public historians. Unlike history teachers, who often work as individuals to design and deliver their courses, most public historians work in cooperation with community members and professionals from other disciplinary backgrounds.
Why Consider a Public History Minor?
If you are interested in history but are not particularly interested in teaching, you should consider a public history minor. The public history minor can help to prepare you for a career as a historical consultant, museum professional, archivist, cultural resource manager, video and media producer, historic preservationist, or policy advisor.
Student Resources
Department website: History
Contact information: Bond Hall 360, 360-650-3457, history@wwu.edu
Department advising: Admitted and/or current students visit the Advising section of the History website.
Degree Works: Current students should also log on to Degree Works to check student-specific program progress.
Career Services Center: Connect major to a career
Sample careers: Historical Consultant, Museum Professional, Government Historian, Librarian, Archivist, Cultural Resource Manager, Curator, Video/Media Producer, Historic Preservationist, Policy Advisor
How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):
There are no prerequisites for declaring the Public History minor. It is recommended that students contact a faculty advisor as soon as they wish to declare the Public History minor. Please see the History department website for further details.
Grade Requirements
A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.
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