MA in Art History

• Master of Arts (MA) in Art History

• Master of Arts: 30 credits

Earn at least 30 credits by completing the following:

• ARTH 60200 – Research Methods of Art History
• At least 3 credits in art historical theory or historiography, such as ARTH 73400, or a special topics course directly related to one of these areas
• At least 9 credits from three of the following four areas:
  • Ancient and Medieval Art
  • Renaissance, Baroque, and 18th-century Art
  • Modern (19th- or 20th-century) and American Art
  • Non-Western Art
• At least 9 credits of electives in Art History or other courses approved by the department
• Undefined credits from the following:
  • ARTH 79900 – Thesis Research
  • ARTH 80000 – Thesis Writing
  • With the permission of the graduate adviser, candidates may take up to 6 credits in studio courses or in courses in related areas.

You must meet the following minimum requirements in order to be considered for admission. Meeting these minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance to the program.

• Bachelor’s degree
• Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0
• 12 undergraduate credits in Art History
• Reading knowledge of French, German, Italian, or Spanish
• Two letters of recommendation from appropriate academic or professional references
• A statement of purpose of approximately 500 words or fewer
• A writing sample, preferably an undergraduate research paper or thesis on a topic related to your proposed area of concentration.
• Official score report of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test*

*The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is currently waived for both the incoming Spring 2025 and Fall 2025 class.

Manage and preserve collections of art, artifacts, or documents in museums, galleries, or cultural institutions.

Average Salary: $54,000 to $78,000

Provide expertise to individuals or organizations on art acquisitions, investment, and collection management.

Average Salary: Highly variable; may include commissions or fees.

Teach art history at high schools, colleges, or universities, fostering understanding and appreciation of art.

Average Salary: $50,000 to $70,000 (higher for universities)

Analyze trends, prices, and market conditions in the art world to inform buying and selling decisions.

Average Salary: $60,000 to $90,000

Restore and conserve artworks, ensuring their preservation for future generations.

Average Salary: $45,000 to $70,000

Write reviews, essays, and articles on art, contributing to publications or working independently.

Average Salary: Highly variable; may include freelance rates.

Oversee the day-to-day operations of an art gallery, including exhibitions, sales, and client relations.

Average Salary: $50,000 to $80,000

Manage administrative tasks, budgets, and operations within a museum or cultural institution.

Average Salary: $55,000 to $80,000

Promote artists, galleries, or cultural events through media relations and strategic communication.

Average Salary: $50,000 to $75,000

Conduct research for cultural institutions, foundations, or government agencies to support decision-making.

Average Salary: $55,000 to $75,000