Course Overview

The Oral History program at Columbia University is a pioneering initiative in the field of historical documentation and storytelling. Offered through the Oral History Master of Arts program, it focuses on training students in the methodologies of collecting, preserving, and interpreting personal and community histories through interviews and narratives. The program emphasizes ethical practices, digital archiving, and public engagement, making it a unique blend of historical research and contemporary media skills.

Career Prospects

Graduates of this program are equipped to pursue careers in historical research, cultural preservation, journalism, and media production. They often work with museums, archives, non-profit organizations, and educational institutions to document and share untold stories.

Key Faculty and Staff

The program is led by experienced faculty, including notable figures such as Mary Marshall Clark, the founding director of the Columbia Center for Oral History Research, who brings decades of expertise in oral history methodologies.

Unique Facilities and Partnerships

Students have access to the Columbia Center for Oral History Research, one of the oldest and most prestigious oral history programs in the world. The center houses an extensive archive of interviews and collaborates with major institutions for public history projects, providing unparalleled hands-on experience.