Public History Certificate program

HIS 320 Careers in Public History This course is an introduction to the careers of public historians. The class covers such topics as cultural resource management, public policy, museums, oral history, archives, etc. As part of this class students have the opportunity to meet with professionals in the field which provides them with a sense of the various careers they may choose to pursue. This class also provides networking opportunities for future employment in public history. Offered Fall.

HIS 318 Exhibition Development and Design I This course explores best practices in exhibit design and development through practicum that exposes students to concept development, special planning, production, and installation on a budget. Field trips and work with local institutions are an important aspect of this course. Topics include oral history, museums in the community, museum organization, exhibition planning and design, care of artifacts and collections, and the visitor experience. Offered Occasionally.

ARC 300 Cultural Resources Management Since the 1980's American archaeology has shifted from a strictly academic profession to a more practical occupation in which consulting and the implementation of legislation and public policy are major components. In fact, today Cultural Resource Management (CRM) is the dominant force in archaeology in the United States. The primary goals of this class are to provide students with an appreciation of the importance of CRM and an understanding of the legislation that drives it, as well as exposure to the everyday practices of archaeologists working in a CRM context. Prerequisite: ARC 196 recommended. Offered Occasionally.

ART 215 Introduction to Museum Studies Museums are more popular than ever before. This course, designed for students interested in museological practices and museum careers, will focus on art museums, but will also embrace history, anthropology, archeology and public administration, to examine the institutional and ethical dimensions of presenting culture in a dedicated space. It will introduce students to how museums operate, and explore critical issues of power, privilege and diversity. We will look at museum missions, collection practices, exhibition strategies, and audience appeal. With that in mind, we will examine the various ideologies at play in museums today, and the ethics of cultural representation and "ownership" of cultural artifacts. Offered Spring.

ENG 314 Grant Writing This course provides students with an opportunity to develop knowledge of theories and practice in philanthropic grant writing. Students will work in teams to help clients fundraise for social change, investigating political, social, and cultural aspects and practices of grant writing within the context of local organizations. Students will develop skills in identifying sources of grant funding, engage in various research methods, analyze stakeholder needs, and learn to rhetorically respond to requests for proposals. The course will also explore grant-related writing genres and conventions such as planning documents, needs assessments, letters of inquiry, project descriptions, and requests for proposals. Prerequisite: ENG 110. Offered Fall.