Minors+

Why Minor in Public Humanities?

The Public Humanities minor at UMBC is designed for students who are passionate about using the tools and methods of the humanities to engage with contemporary social issues and work collaboratively with diverse communities.

The Public Humanities minor provides students with a rich, interdisciplinary educational experience focused on community collaboration and public scholarship. Housed in the Department of American Studies’ Orser Center for the Study of Place, Community, and Culture, this program empowers students to create sustainable projects that connect original research with the broader public. Through coursework and hands-on projects, students learn to build engaging narratives, conduct cultural documentation, and produce public-facing work such as podcasts, films, exhibitions, and more. This minor not only broadens students’ academic perspectives but also equips them with practical skills to make a significant impact in their communities and beyond. This minor will prepare you for careers in museums, cultural institutions, nonprofit organizations, community advocacy, media production, education, and public policy.

At a Glance

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What Are My Career Options Studying Public Humanities?

Graduates with a minor in Public Humanities are well-prepared for careers in community engagement, cultural management, public history, social justice advocacy, and more. They possess the skills to work in non-profits, government agencies, educational institutions, and cultural organizations. The ability to create and manage public-facing projects also opens doors to roles in media production, museum curation, and event planning. This minor provides a solid foundation for those interested in pursuing further studies in the humanities or social sciences and contributes to a wide range of career paths that value interdisciplinary knowledge and public engagement.

Tuition, Scholarships & Financial Aid

UMBC works to provide students with adequate need-based funding.

2025–2026 Undergraduate Cost Calculator Financial Aid Scholarships

Ready to Apply?

Complete the Common App

Your first stop is the Common App. You can learn more about how to apply with the Common App here.

Request Supporting Documents

You’ll be required to submit your official transcript and international transcript (if applicable). You may also choose to submit standardized test scores and/or letters of recommendation.

Complete Scholars Programs and Visual and Performing Arts Majors Requirements (optional)

Applying to a Scholars Program or as a Visual or Performing Arts major? Be sure to research additional requirements and deadlines specific to the programs of interest to you.

Application Deadlines

GO TO THE COMMON APP VISIT UMBC ADMISSION TRANSFER CENTRAL

Contact Information

UMBC Office of Undergraduate Admissions and Orientation Contact Information

Mailing Address

Office of Undergraduate Admissions
and Orientation
1000 Hilltop Circle Baltimore, MD 21250

OFFICE LOCATION

Albin O. Kuhn Library
on the lower level next to Library Pond

Admissions Staff

410-455-2292

Available Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

admissions@umbc.edu

Request Help

Email Undergraduate Admissions at Request Help.

American Studies Undergraduate Programs