Ph.D. in Public History

Middle Tennessee State University's Ph.D. in Public History is a dynamic and interdisciplinary program designed to prepare scholars and practitioners for impactful roles in preserving, interpreting, and sharing historical narratives with the public. This program stands at the intersection of academic rigor and public engagement, emphasizing the practical application of historical knowledge in diverse settings. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of historical methodologies, archival practices, and the vital role of history in shaping public consciousness.

Curriculum: The program's curriculum is carefully crafted to provide a well-rounded education in public history. Core courses cover topics such as historical interpretation, museum studies, oral history, and digital humanities. Students engage with both theoretical concepts and practical skills, including exhibition design, public programming, and the use of technology in presenting historical narratives. The curriculum allows for flexibility, enabling students to tailor their studies to specific areas of interest within public history.

Research Focus: A distinctive feature of the program is its strong research focus. Students are encouraged to conduct original research that contributes to the field of public history. Research projects may include the creation of exhibits, oral history collections, or digital archives that address historical topics relevant to the local community or broader public audience. The goal is to produce scholarship that not only advances academic knowledge but also reaches and resonates with diverse public audiences.

Industry Engagement: Recognizing the importance of collaboration with cultural institutions, historical sites, and public history organizations, the program promotes industry engagement. Students have opportunities for internships, partnerships, and collaborative projects with museums, archives, and heritage sites. These experiences provide practical insights into the day-to-day operations of public history institutions and help students build professional networks within the field.

Global Perspective: The Ph.D. program instills a global perspective in students, acknowledging that historical narratives extend beyond national borders. Courses explore global trends in public history, comparative studies of public memory, and the impact of cultural diversity on historical interpretation. Students are encouraged to consider the global dimensions of public history, fostering an understanding of how historical narratives intersect and interact on an international scale.

PhD Entry Requirements

Application Fees: $50

Academic Qualifications: Prospective PhD applicants are expected to hold a taught Masters degree in a relevant subject area. The university typically requires a minimum of 80% or above as the standard for academic performance in the completed Masters program.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS Requirement: An overall IELTS score of 6.5 is required.
• TOEFL Requirement: A minimum overall score of 71 is often required.
• DET Requirement: A DET score of 95 is required.

WES evaluation required

Students must provide:

• Academic marksheets & transcripts
• Letters of recommendation
• A personal statement - SOP
• Passport
• Other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some PhD courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

MTSU actively promotes diversity and inclusivity in higher education by providing scholarships specifically tailored for international Ph.D. students. These scholarships aim to alleviate the financial burden of pursuing advanced degrees and encourage scholars from around the world to contribute to cutting-edge research.

Global Merit Scholarship: The Global Merit Scholarship at MTSU recognizes outstanding academic achievements. It is awarded to international Ph.D. students based on their academic records and potential for research excellence. This scholarship may cover full or partial tuition expenses.

Research Advancement Grant: MTSU offers the Research Advancement Grant to support Ph.D. candidates engaged in innovative research projects. Recipients receive financial support for their research, including funding for equipment, travel, and other research-related expenses.

Teaching and Learning Excellence Fellowship: The Teaching and Learning Excellence Fellowship is designed to recognize and support exceptional Ph.D. students. It provides financial support and valuable teaching experience, enriching the academic journey for international scholars.

Earning a Ph.D. in Public History from Middle Tennessee State University opens up a diverse array of career options, blending academic expertise with practical applications in preserving and disseminating historical knowledge to the public. Graduates are equipped with the skills to navigate the intersection of history, public engagement, and cultural heritage, making them valuable contributors to various sectors.

University Professor in Public History: Ph.D. holders can pursue academic careers as university professors specializing in Public History. They play a pivotal role in educating future historians and public history practitioners, teaching courses on historical interpretation, museum studies, and public engagement. Their research contributes to the academic field while shaping the next generation of public historians.

Museum Curator or Director: Graduates may choose to work as museum curators or directors, overseeing the curation and management of exhibits, collections, and public programs. They contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage, develop engaging exhibitions, and ensure that museums serve as educational spaces for diverse audiences.

Historical Consultant for Cultural Institutions: Ph.D. holders can become historical consultants, offering their expertise to cultural institutions, historical sites, and government agencies. They provide guidance on historical accuracy, preservation strategies, and public engagement initiatives, contributing to the development and enhancement of historical narratives.

Archivist or Special Collections Librarian: With their advanced knowledge in historical preservation, graduates can pursue careers as archivists or special collections librarians. They play a crucial role in managing and preserving historical documents, manuscripts, and artifacts, ensuring their accessibility to researchers and the public.

Public Historian in Government Agencies: Ph.D. holders may work in government agencies, contributing to the development of public history programs, heritage preservation initiatives, and historical interpretation projects. They play a role in shaping public policy related to cultural heritage and historical awareness.

Historic Preservation Officer: Graduates can become historic preservation officers, working with municipalities or organizations to ensure the protection and conservation of historical sites and buildings. They navigate the intersection of preservation regulations, community engagement, and historical significance.

Digital Historian or Content Creator: Ph.D. holders may choose to leverage digital platforms as historians or content creators. They can work on digital history projects, develop online exhibits, or engage with the public through blogs, podcasts, and social media, reaching a broader audience beyond traditional academic circles.

Community Engagement Coordinator: Graduates can take on roles as community engagement coordinators, working with local communities to facilitate the sharing of their historical narratives. They organize events, oral history projects, and collaborative initiatives that empower communities to actively participate in preserving their histories.

Cultural Resource Manager: Ph.D. holders may work as cultural resource managers, ensuring the responsible management of cultural resources in construction and development projects. They balance the preservation of historical sites with the practical considerations of contemporary development.

Heritage Tourism Developer: With a focus on public history, graduates can contribute to heritage tourism development. They work on creating interpretive programs, walking tours, and immersive experiences that attract visitors while fostering an appreciation for local history and cultural heritage.

Educational Program Director for Historical Organizations: Graduates may lead educational programs within historical organizations, developing curriculum, workshops, and educational materials that engage diverse audiences. They contribute to lifelong learning and historical literacy within the community.