Art History and Archaeology
The Master of Arts in Art History and Archaeology is a one year full time program designed for students seeking advanced expertise in the study of art, material culture, and archaeological practice. The curriculum integrates art historical analysis, archaeological methods, research techniques, and cultural interpretation, providing a comprehensive understanding of artistic and historical artifacts within their social, cultural, and historical contexts. Through this program, students develop research and analysis skills, art historical expertise, archaeological method competencies, and critical thinking abilities, preparing them to study, interpret, and preserve cultural heritage in academic, museum, or field settings.
This on campus program immerses students in a collaborative and research oriented environment where lectures, seminars, fieldwork, and applied projects enable hands on experience with material culture and archaeological study. Students refine archaeological excavation techniques, artifact analysis, historical research methodologies, and curatorial and documentation skills through field projects, workshops, and independent research. Graduates are prepared to work in museums, research institutions, heritage management organizations, cultural agencies, and educational settings, equipping them to conduct research, manage collections, curate exhibitions, and contribute to the preservation and interpretation of cultural heritage worldwide.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Art History and Archaeology
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 14 December 2025
- Location: Columbia University, United States
- Field of Study: Archaeology
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Art History and Archaeology
• Introduction to Art History
• Archaeological Methods and Fieldwork
• Cultural Heritage Studies
• Research Methods in Archaeology and Art History
Semester 2 – Advanced Research and Applied Practice
• Seminar in Art Historical Analysis
• Applied Archaeological Projects
• Material Culture Studies
• Elective Modules in Art, Archaeology, or Cultural Heritage
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in museums, cultural heritage organizations, research institutions, and academic settings. Career paths include art historian, archaeologist, curator, heritage manager, and research analyst in cultural studies. Graduates are equipped to conduct in depth research, analyze artifacts and artworks, manage museum or heritage projects, and contribute to scholarly publications. The program also prepares learners for leadership roles in research, curation, and cultural preservation initiatives, enabling them to advance knowledge, conservation, and public understanding of art and material culture.
Why Choose This Program
Students choose this program because it combines art historical expertise, archaeological research skills, applied cultural analysis, and hands on field experience within a one year intensive framework. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, allowing learners to acquire analytical, research, and documentation skills necessary for success in art history and archaeology. Graduates gain the knowledge, confidence, and competencies to pursue careers in museums, research institutions, cultural heritage organizations, and academia while contributing meaningfully to the study, preservation, and interpretation of art and historical artifacts.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 212 854 1754
Email: admissions@columbia.edu
Address: University of Columbia, Admissions Office, New York, NY, United States
