Global Education
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Institute for Public History

VISION
The Gordon College Institute for Public History unites and expands the offerings of two longstanding entities--History Alive! and the Museum Studies curriculum of our history department. The Institute for Public History hosts a special 24-week semester in Salem, MA which grants students 24 credits and an interdisciplinary minor in Historical Interpretation. Utilizing the Institute's tenancy at two historic properties, these works are presented to tourists visiting in the busy summer and fall season. Participants create new tours, plays and theatrical scenarios based on Salem's rich history. While Salem is infamous for its 1692 witchcraft ordeal, the city also plays an important role in American religious, cultural and social history. By residing, studying and working in Salem, students will engage the riches of the city's history and help the public do the same. The work of our students is to bring such histories to life in playful, engaging and memorable ways. 

QUALIFICATIONS
This special semester in Historical Interpretation accepts applications from any student who:

  • Agrees to abide by the College's behavioral standards
  • Satisfies criteria set by the Global Education Office.
  • Has sophomore standing or above
  • Has earned a cumulative grade point average of 2.75 or higher

*An audition and interview are required for this program.
*Non-Gordon students are welcome to apply

CREDITS
Students earn 24-credits in a 24-week semester. There is a one-week break in September. Courses cover topics from working with folkways and material culture to improvisation. See Curriculum page at left.

DEADLINE
Summer-Fall Semester:
Gordon students must submit their online seat applications for the Institute for Public History by February 15. All other supporting materials including interview and audition due by February 22.  

Non-Gordon applicants must submit their online application and supporting materials, have interview and audition by March 15. Non-Gordon Students please go to Apply for the Specialty Semester page at left for online application.

COST
Students are charged normal Gordon costs for a semester (18 credits), plus the extra costs of 6 additional credits. However, every student accepted to the program is credited with a substantial Gordon College "Salem Fellows" scholarship that lowers the overall costs of the semester to well below current rates. For additional information on cost for 2010, please contact the Global Education Office.  

Housing is available for the 24-week program (mid-May to early November) at an historic home in Salem leased by the college. The additional cost is $3,000 for the full semester ($125 per week): double occupancy, all utilities, internet, etc. The house has a full kitchen and residents will be responsible for their own meals. Students may choose to provide their own alternate arrangements for housing and meals.

CONTACT
The Global Education Office
p: 978.867.4399
e: geo@gordon.edu

Kristina Wacome Stevick
Director of the Gordon Institute for Public History
Artistic Director of History Alive!
p: 978.867.4518
e: