Art History

Students who major in art history examine cultural and historical aspects of art, including painting, sculpture and architecture, and how they relate to culture, religion, politics, philosophy and society during the time of their creation. Insight is gained into how the artists saw the world, and the different movements in which they participated. Class discussions are encouraged as students view selections of artwork provided by their professor. Skills are learned in written and verbal communication, and critical and analytical thinking. Most programs require that students take two or more semesters of a foreign language. Other classes taken by art history majors are language and visual art, history of Greek and Roman art, history of Italian Renaissance art, contemporary art and European architecture.

After graduation, students have found employment across the country in museums, galleries, art agencies and historic sites. The most common positions for people with a true love of art and art history are curator and teacher, which typically require master’s degrees. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for curators, archivists and museum technicians is expected to grow by 20 percent through 2018. However, art history majors have skills that are useful in other professions as well. Learning a foreign language and gaining study abroad experience prepares graduates to work in different parts of the world.