Engaged Public History (V1492)

15 credits, Level 5

Spring teaching

What is the role of the historian in an increasingly polarised world? How do we share our knowledge and expertise in ways that are relevant, beneficial and valued?

In this module, you’ll develop an appreciation of how historians have shaped – and continue to influence – the world we live in. You’ll explore the challenges historians face when communicating history to diverse audiences. You’ll also examine the responsibilities we all share for accurate and ethical storytelling.

You’ll do this by engaging with public history scholarship, and studying how the theory and practice of public history has been applied for different real-world purposes. You’ll cover different examples, from heritage organisations like the National Trust to national landmarks like the Tower of London.

You’ll then examine the ways that historical knowledge and understanding is applied and disseminated in different contexts. This is a vital attribute for various careers, such as in:

  • policy and government
  • museums and archives
  • journalism and media.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We鈥檙e planning to run these modules in the academic year 2026/27. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.

We鈥檒l make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.

Courses

This module is offered on the following courses: