The Art History program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of visual culture, artistic movements, and the historical, social, and cultural contexts of art, emphasizing critical thinking, research skills, and aesthetic analysis. Students explore a wide range of periods, styles, and media from antiquity to contemporary art, studying painting, sculpture, architecture, photography, and digital media. The curriculum integrates art historical theory, methodology, and research, allowing students to develop expertise in both scholarly analysis and practical application. Students cultivate skills in critical interpretation, research, writing, and visual analysis, preparing them to engage deeply with art in academic, professional, and cultural contexts.
Throughout the program, students develop expertise in art history, curatorial practice, and visual analysis, essential for careers in museums, galleries, cultural institutions, and academic research. Exposure to interdisciplinary approaches ensures graduates can evaluate, interpret, and communicate artistic concepts across multiple contexts, while also understanding the social and cultural significance of art. By fostering independent inquiry, applied research, and critical evaluation, the program prepares students to contribute meaningfully to professional, educational, and cultural initiatives within the global art world.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Art History
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 January 2026
- Location: Columbia University, United States
- Field of Study: Art History
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Art History
• Introduction to Western and Non-Western Art
• Academic Writing and Research Skills
• Visual Analysis and Art Techniques
• Survey of Art History: Ancient to Modern
Year 2 – Core Studies in Art History
• Renaissance and Baroque Art
• Modern and Contemporary Art
• Research Methods in Art History
• Elective Modules in Museum Studies, Cultural Theory, or Visual Studies
Year 3 – Advanced Art History and Applied Research
• Seminar in Art Historical Research
• Curatorial Project or Internship
• Art Criticism and Theory
• Elective Modules in Conservation, Digital Media, or Global Art
Year 4 – Independent Research and Capstone Project
• Independent Research Project or Thesis
• Advanced Topics in Art History
• Curatorial Practice and Portfolio Development
• Capstone Project Presentation
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in museums, galleries, cultural institutions, art conservation, art criticism, research, and education. They can work as curators, researchers, art educators, archivists, conservators, art historians, or cultural consultants in museums, galleries, universities, and nonprofit organizations. The program equips students with expertise in research, critical analysis, writing, curatorial practice, and visual interpretation, enabling them to pursue versatile roles in professional art history, education, research, and cultural programming. Alumni may also continue their education in graduate programs in art history, museum studies, cultural management, or visual studies, providing highly competitive and adaptable career pathways.
Why Choose This Program
This program combines theoretical study, research methods, and practical application, giving students a thorough understanding of art history and visual culture. Small classes and faculty mentorship provide personalized guidance, fostering independent research, critical thinking, and curatorial expertise. The curriculum emphasizes applied research, curatorial projects, and engagement with historical and contemporary art, preparing graduates to address complex challenges in art interpretation, museum work, and cultural institutions. By engaging with advanced coursework, research projects, and practical experiences, students gain the knowledge, analytical skills, and professional preparation necessary for impactful careers in art history, curation, education, and further graduate study.
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
