Public History and Heritage
The Master of Arts in Public History and Heritage at the University of Derby is a full-time, one-year program designed for individuals passionate about history, heritage conservation, and public engagement. The program offers students the opportunity to explore the role of history and heritage in contemporary society, with a focus on managing and interpreting historical sites, archives, and cultural heritage.
Students will gain hands-on experience in historical research, heritage conservation, and public history projects. The program prepares graduates for careers in museums, heritage organizations, cultural institutions, and historical consultancy. By the end of the program, students will have the skills and knowledge necessary to manage and interpret historical resources for public audiences.
Key information
Key Facts
Program Title: Master of Arts in Public History and Heritage
Degree Type: Master of Arts (MA)
Duration: 1 year
Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
Language of Instruction: English
Application Deadline: 20th July 2026
Location: University of Derby, United Kingdom
Program Structure
. Semester 1 – Foundations of Public History and Heritage
- Introduction to Public History
- Heritage Management and Conservation
- Digital Methods in Public History
- Historical Research and Archival Studies
- Public Engagement and Communication
. Semester 2 – Advanced Practices in Public History and Heritage
- Curating Exhibitions and Heritage Interpretation
- Cultural Policy and Heritage Preservation
- History in the Public Sphere: Media and Memory
- Community History Projects and Case Studies
- Final Research Project / Dissertation
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Master of Arts in Public History and Heritage from the University of Derby are well-prepared for careers in heritage management, museum curation, public history, and cultural policy development. Career opportunities include roles such as heritage manager, museum curator, archive specialist, exhibition designer, or cultural heritage consultant. The program’s combination of historical theory, heritage practice, and public engagement equips graduates with the skills needed to work in museums, galleries, historical sites, government agencies, and cultural organizations. Graduates can also contribute to public history projects, digital history initiatives, and community-driven heritage projects.
Why Choose This Program
The Master of Arts in Public History and Heritage at the University of Derby provides an opportunity for students to explore the intersection of history, heritage conservation, and public engagement. The full-time, on-campus format offers hands-on experience in the management, interpretation, and communication of historical and cultural heritage. Students will learn to work with historical archives, cultural collections, and digital tools to engage the public with history and heritage in meaningful ways. The program’s focus on community-based projects, curation, and policy development prepares graduates to make a significant impact in the heritage sector and in public history initiatives globally. Whether in museums, heritage sites, or cultural organizations, this program provides the skills and knowledge needed to become a leader in the field.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +44 (0)1332 591651
Email: admissions@derby.ac.uk
Address: University of Derby, Kedleston Road, Derby DE22 1GB, United Kingdom
