
The Bachelor of Arts in Art History is a four-year interdisciplinary program that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of visual culture, artistic movements, and historical contexts across time and geography. Students explore art theory, criticism, visual analysis, museum studies, and cultural history, developing the analytical, research, and communication skills necessary to interpret, contextualize, and critique works of art. The program emphasizes the connection between art and society, encouraging students to understand how art reflects cultural, political, and social dynamics while cultivating aesthetic appreciation and scholarly inquiry.
Throughout the program, students engage in close visual analysis, research projects, and experiential learning opportunities, including museum visits, archival research, and curatorial practice. Coursework integrates critical thinking, historical analysis, and interdisciplinary study, enabling students to explore the evolution of artistic expression and its societal impact. By combining theoretical frameworks with practical research, students gain the expertise to assess, interpret, and present art in academic, professional, and public contexts, preparing them for diverse career paths.
Year 1 – Foundations in Art History
• Introduction to Art History
• Visual Analysis and Interpretation
• Academic Writing and Research
• Survey of World Art
Year 2 – Core Art Historical Disciplines
• Western Art from Antiquity to the Renaissance
• Modern and Contemporary Art
• Non-Western Art and Global Perspectives
• Research Methods in Art History
Year 3 – Specialized Studies
• Art Theory and Criticism
• Museum and Curatorial Studies
• Elective: Photography, Architecture, or Digital Media
• Field Research and Archival Study
Year 4 – Integration and Capstone
• Senior Seminar in Art History
• Independent Research Project or Thesis
• Internship or Curatorial Experience
• Advanced Elective: Global Art Movements / Conservation Studies
Graduates of Art History are prepared for careers in museum and gallery curation, art conservation, art education, archival research, cultural heritage management, arts administration, and publishing. They may also pursue graduate studies in art history, museum studies, conservation, or related cultural fields, enhancing both professional and academic opportunities. Employers value graduates’ analytical skills, visual literacy, research proficiency, and communication abilities, enabling them to interpret, present, and manage artworks and collections in diverse institutional settings. Alumni are equipped to contribute to cultural preservation, education, and public engagement through their expertise in art and visual culture.
This program is ideal for students passionate about art, culture, and history, offering a rigorous interdisciplinary curriculum that combines scholarly research with practical experience. Emory University provides access to expert faculty, museum resources, and experiential learning opportunities, including internships and field research. The program emphasizes critical thinking, visual analysis, and professional practice, preparing graduates to navigate academic, cultural, and professional environments successfully. Students leave the program with deep knowledge of art history, strong analytical skills, and practical experience, ready to pursue careers or graduate studies that contribute meaningfully to the arts, cultural heritage, and creative industries.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 404 727 6123
Email: contentedit@emory.edu
Address: University of Emory, 201 Dowman Drive, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States