Public History Foundation Degree

Nottingham Trent University is launching a new Public History Foundation Degree as part of its successful heritage studies portfolio.  The new degree begins in October 2009 and is supported by MLA East Midlands, Renaissance East Midlands.

The course can either be full or part time (two or four years) and includes practical work within the museums, libraries and archives sector as well as university studies and has a strong emphasis on real issues and scenarios linked to the workplace.

The course is designed to provide a comprehensive working knowledge of how the history and heritage sector works through museums, archives and other heritage organisations. An important feature of the teaching and learning throughout the programme is the use of ‘real-life’ scenarios in applying academic theory to the workplace. The workplace focus includes case studies, visits and talks by practicing professionals, as well as the extensive work placements.

The first year will focus on how cultural phenomena relate to history, focusing on the difference between historical truth and cultural fantasy.  The course will help students learn how to be historians, but will also ask the question of whether truth is important in promoting heritage using the local example of Robin Hood. Studies will also look at the work environment, including the breadth of heritage organizations, how they are structured and issues of equality and diversity.

The second year will link more closely to professional development and see students producing a portfolio of evidence of their employability in the heritage sector.

The practical workplace element will feature in both years.

For more information about the degree programme visit the Nottingham Trent University website.