Western Carolina University has several opportunities for students wishing to build a career in public history.
Undergraduate students have the option of completing our Public History Certification program. In addition to the hours required for the history major, students:
Graduate students pursuing a Master of Arts in history may choose to concentrate on public history within the American history program. In addition to 30 hours of coursework, demonstration of reading competency in a foreign language, public presentation of student research, and successful completion of a comprehensive examination, students:
We ensure that our students leave the program with experience working in the field. We have relationships with a variety of public history institutions in the area including:
We work hard to place students in internships that they will find interesting and professionally rewarding. Throughout the internship, you will be guided and assisted by our department’s public historian, Dr. Jessie Swigger. She is available if you have any questions or concerns. Along with completing 150 hours of service, interns:
If you are interested in joining Western Carolina University’s Public History Program, please contact:
Dr. Jessie Swigger
(828) 227-2692
Jswigger@email.wcu.edu