Public History and Heritage (Extended) Swansea University

Overview

The MA Public History and Heritage (Extended) at Swansea University is a postgraduate taught degree that explores how history is interpreted, communicated and experienced in public spaces and heritage settings. You’ll study themes such as museums and collections, heritage interpretation, community history, memory and identity, and learn how to present historical knowledge to diverse audiences through exhibitions, digital platforms, archives and public events. The “extended” format usually includes a larger independent project or placement experience, giving you the opportunity to build both academic insight and practical professional skills. The programme combines theory and practice, helping you understand how history and heritage shape cultural understanding, society and collective memory. Graduates are prepared for careers in museums, archives, heritage sites, cultural organisations, interpretation, education, public engagement and related sectors, or for further postgraduate research.

Why Public History and Heritage at Swansea?

Swansea University is renowned for its exceptional academic environment, with 100% of its Research Impact rated as World-leading or Internationally Excellent according to the REF 2021. The Public History and Heritage (Extended) MA is delivered on the picturesque Singleton Park Campus, which boasts a botanical garden and historic architecture, including the Grade II listed Singleton Abbey. The programme collaborates closely with the university's extensive archives and collections, such as the Egypt Centre and the South Wales Miners’ Library, providing students with unique access to significant resources. Additionally, the course benefits from partnerships with external heritage organisations, enhancing practical learning opportunities.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

- Domestic Students: £6,100 per year - International Students: £12,850 per year Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The course spans two years, with the first year focusing on foundational modules, including:

• Heritage in Conflict
• Approaches and Debates in Heritage and Public History
• Heritage Work Placement
• Understanding GLAM: Galleries, Libraries, Archives and Museums
• Optional modules such as Historical Methods and Approaches or Conversations with the Past

In the second year, students undertake a dissertation project and a semester abroad at Appalachian State University, where they can choose between a practice-based or written dissertation.

Guaranteed Work Experience

The programme includes a designated module that guarantees a work placement, allowing students to gain 100 hours of practical experience within a heritage organisation or project. This hands-on approach is complemented by group seminars and individual tutorials, ensuring that students can contextualise their experiences within the broader literature on heritage and public history.

Careers with Public History and Heritage

Graduates of this programme will be well-prepared for various roles in the heritage sector, including positions in museums, libraries, and archives. The course also equips students for doctoral training in curatorial roles, independent heritage practice, and policy-making within cultural and leisure sectors. The combination of practical experience and advanced research skills enhances employability, making graduates attractive candidates for diverse career paths in heritage and public history.