Public History

Students in Classroom

START YOUR JOURNEY THROUGH HISTORY AND HELP PRESERVE CULTURE

Bring the past to life and learn how to preserve artifacts, histories and culture in NOVA’s public history and historic preservation program.

AVAILABLE PROGRAMS

Public History And Historic Preservation Career Studies Certificate

Gain a strong foundation in public history, historic preservation, museum studies and more in NOVA’s Career Studies Certificate (CSC) in Public History and Historic Preservation. You’ll learn theories and methods for historic preservation and apply them in internships and entry-level jobs at historic sites, museums and parks. You will also learn about historical archaeology, museum studies, material culture, the nomination process for the National Register of Historic Places, historical archives, digital history and preservation efforts throughout the Northern Virginia region.

Length
One Year
Credits
18
Locations
Loudoun
Curriculum Details

WHY STUDY PUBLIC HISTORY AT NOVA?

Dedicated Public History Faculty

You’ll learn from experienced public history and historic preservation faculty who are committed to your academic and professional success.

Relevant Public History Courses

You’ll take classes that train you to work with an array of organizations dedicated to preservation, education, interpretation and outreach for local historical sites.

Affordable Public History Program

You’ll receive an affordable public history and historic preservation certificate. You may qualify for NOVA scholarships to help offset the cost of your education.

Program Details

This certificate program is designed for students seeking a solid foundation in the theories, methods, and skills in the complementary fields of public history and historic preservation. Students will become advocates for local preservation efforts and public history initiatives by working with non-profits and government agencies dedicated to preservation, education, interpretation and outreach for local historical sites and organizations. In addition, they will also learn about historical archaeology, museum studies, material culture, the nomination process for the National Register of Historic Places, historical archives, digital history, and preservation efforts throughout the Northern Virginia region.

Accreditations

Northern Virginia Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award the public history and historic preservation certificate.

PUBLIC HISTORY PROGRAM CAREER OUTCOMES

By studying public history and historic preservation at NOVA, you’ll develop the knowledge and skills you need to continue your studies at a four-year institution. You’ll also be prepared for entry-level or volunteer roles as tour guide, museum staff, archivist or curator at historic sites or organizations with local preservation efforts and public history initiatives.

Credits and
Transfer Info

Credit for Prior Learning

Credit for prior learning (CPL) generally refers to the process of granting college credit for learning gained in nontraditional ways, including but not limited to: certifications, AP or IB exams, military training, or life experience.

Transferring

Learn more about possible transfer opportunities associated with this program of study. Students interested in transferring should contact an advisor or counselor to further discuss their plans.

Your Next Steps to NOVA