About Our Program

CU Denver's team and its extensive network of partnerships with Colorado museums and historic sites have built a strong and dynamic graduate program to train Public History professionals. CU Denver faculty designed this applied history program to move historical work beyond the walls of academia and into the community. Public historians deepen community roots and create a potent sense of place. The CU Denver Public History Program specializes in training students to work in museums, heritage tourism, on digital projects, and as consulting historians in a variety of settings. Public historians also collaborate with interested parties to produce books, brochures, exhibits, landmark nominations, business and institutional histories, family histories, documentaries, and tours.

All students can gain valuable professional experience through our department’s focus on internships and research opportunities. Our department has placed students in positions at a variety of organizations including: History Colorado Center, Center for Colorado and the West, Denver Public Library, Colorado Railroad Museum, Historic Denver, National Park Service, and National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Certificates in Museums Studies and Digital Studies are also available for those planning a more intensive concentration.

Program Overview