VIRGINIA TECH · UNITED STATES
Material Culture and Public Humanities (MA)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
The Master of Arts in Material Culture and Public Humanities program at Virginia Tech is designed for students interested in understanding how people create, use, and interpret the objects and environments around them. This interdisciplinary program explores the ways material culture shapes human experience and how these meanings can be communicated to broader audiences. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of theoretical frameworks and practical methods used in the study of material culture. The program emphasizes critical analysis, research skills, and engagement with public-facing humanities projects. Graduates are prepared for careers in museums, archives, historical societies, heritage organizations, and other fields that require expertise in cultural interpretation and public engagement.
Curriculum
The curriculum is structured to provide a strong foundation in theory and methodology, coupled with opportunities for practical application. The program typically spans two years.
- Year 1
- Foundations of Material Culture
- Public Humanities Methods
- Research Seminar
- Year 2
- Thesis Research
- Advanced Topics in Material Culture/Public Humanities
Careers
Graduates of the Material Culture and Public Humanities program are prepared for a variety of roles in cultural institutions and beyond.
- Museum Curator
- Archivist
- Collections Manager
- Historic Preservationist
- Public Historian
- Program Officer
- Cultural Heritage Specialist
- Exhibition Developer
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Material Culture and Public Humanities MA program?
- Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a strong academic record and a background relevant to the program's focus. Specific graduate admission requirements can be found on the Graduate School admissions page.
- How long does the Material Culture and Public Humanities MA program typically take to complete?
- The Master of Arts in Material Culture and Public Humanities program is designed to be completed over two years.
- What kind of career opportunities are available after completing this program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Museum Curator, Archivist, Collections Manager, Historic Preservationist, Public Historian, and Cultural Heritage Specialist.
- Where can I find information on tuition and fees for international students?
- International students should consult the university's international student services for specific financial requirements. Tuition and fee rates are subject to change and are typically published on the Bursar's website for the upcoming academic year.
- What documents are required to apply for the MA in Material Culture and Public Humanities?
- You will need to submit the Graduate Application, official transcripts, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, a writing sample, and a CV/resume. An application fee is also required.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is required for admission. Applicants should demonstrate a strong academic record and a background relevant to the program's focus.
Please refer to the Graduate School admissions page for general graduate admission requirements.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the Bursar's website for the most current tuition and fee rates. Rates are typically published for the upcoming academic year.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the Bursar's website for the most current tuition and fee rates. Rates are typically published for the upcoming academic year.
LivingGraduate student Cost of Attendance (COA) figures are available on the Financial Aid website. These estimates include tuition, fees, living expenses, books, and personal costs.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. International students should consult the university's international student services for information regarding specific financial requirements.
How to apply
1. Complete the Graduate ApplicationSubmit the online application form through the Virginia Tech Graduate School admissions portal.
2. Submit TranscriptsProvide official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended.
3. Provide Statement of PurposeSubmit a detailed statement outlining your academic interests, research goals, and reasons for pursuing this specific program.
4. Submit Letters of RecommendationRequest letters of recommendation from academic or professional references who can speak to your abilities and potential.
5. Submit Writing SampleA writing sample demonstrating your academic writing skills is typically required.
6. Submit CV/ResumeProvide a current curriculum vitae or resume detailing your academic and professional experience.
7. Pay Application FeeA non-refundable application fee is required for all applications.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Material Culture and Public Humanities MA program?
+
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a strong academic record and a background relevant to the program's focus. Specific graduate admission requirements can be found on the Graduate School admissions page.
How long does the Material Culture and Public Humanities MA program typically take to complete?
+
The Master of Arts in Material Culture and Public Humanities program is designed to be completed over two years.
What kind of career opportunities are available after completing this program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Museum Curator, Archivist, Collections Manager, Historic Preservationist, Public Historian, and Cultural Heritage Specialist.
Where can I find information on tuition and fees for international students?
+
International students should consult the university's international student services for specific financial requirements. Tuition and fee rates are subject to change and are typically published on the Bursar's website for the upcoming academic year.
What documents are required to apply for the MA in Material Culture and Public Humanities?
+
You will need to submit the Graduate Application, official transcripts, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, a writing sample, and a CV/resume. An application fee is also required.