American Studies

Public Humanities Minor

Undergraduate Programs

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

Public Humanities Minor

Campus Locations:
Catonsville

Department:
Department of American Studies

College:
College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences

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What Are My Career Options Studying Public Humanities?

American Studies

Based on real UMBC graduates*

58 Graduates
$65,790 Median Salary
Data shown for graduates 2011–2026.

Top Job Titles

Salary Distribution

Top Employers

  1. ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS 3
  2. BWS MICROWAVE SOLUTIONS 1
  3. EMERGENCY VETERINARY CATONSVILLE 1
  4. CONNECTIONS EDUCATION 1
  5. YEAR UP UNITED 1
  6. FOCUS INSITE 1
  7. NATIONAL PARK SERVICE 1
  8. SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION 1
  9. LEIDOS 1
  10. 7CUPS.COM 1

Top Industries

Job Categories

Top Locations

  1. BALTIMORE, MARYLAND 7
  2. NEW YORK, NEW YORK 3
  3. CATONSVILLE, MARYLAND 2
  4. ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND 2
  5. REISTERSTOWN, MARYLAND 2

* Outcomes reflect graduates Steppingblocks could match to public career data, so totals may not represent every graduate in the program. Salary figures are based only on graduates with salary data available.

Tuition, Scholarships & Financial Aid

UMBC is committed to making a world-class education accessible to every student. We offer a range of financial aid options, including grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans to help you manage the cost of your education. New and current degree-seeking undergraduates can explore institutional and departmental scholarships using our Scholarship Retriever tool, along with additional opportunities from external partners. Scholarships and financial aid can help cover tuition, fees, textbooks, and even housing and meals, ensuring you can focus on your studies and your future at UMBC.

Ready to Apply?

1

Complete the Common App

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

2

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.

3

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.

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.