History of Art
The History of Art Master of Arts program at Pennsylvania University is a two-year, full-time graduate program designed for students who wish to explore art history across periods, cultures, and media. The curriculum combines rigorous study of artistic movements, critical theory, and visual analysis with research methodologies and curatorial practices. Students develop expertise in art historical research, visual literacy, critical interpretation, and museum studies, allowing them to contextualize artworks and their cultural significance. Through seminars, independent study, and hands-on projects, students engage deeply with both historical and contemporary art, developing skills to analyze, interpret, and communicate insights in academic, museum, or professional contexts.
Throughout the program, students benefit from close mentorship by faculty who are leaders in their areas of specialization. Opportunities for archival research, museum collaborations, and interdisciplinary projects ensure graduates gain practical experience alongside scholarly knowledge. The program emphasizes analytical rigor, writing proficiency, and public presentation, preparing students to contribute to exhibitions, publications, and research initiatives. Graduates leave with the capacity to examine visual culture with historical awareness, theoretical insight, research excellence, and critical perspective, fully prepared for careers in academia, museums, and cultural institutions.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: History of Art
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 December 2025
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Visual Arts
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Art History
- Survey of Western Art: Antiquity to Renaissance
- Introduction to Non-Western Art Traditions
- Methods and Theory in Art History
- Visual Analysis and Critical Writing
Semester 2 – Advanced Studies and Research
- Renaissance and Baroque Art
- Modern and Contemporary Art Movements
- Archival Research Techniques
- Seminar in Art Historical Methods
Semester 3 – Specialization and Curatorial Practice
- Art of Asia, Africa, and the Americas
- Exhibition Design and Curatorial Studies
- Advanced Research Project I
- Elective in Interdisciplinary Art Studies
Semester 4 – Capstone and Professional Integration
- Advanced Research Project II / Thesis
- Art Historical Publication and Presentation
- Professional Practice in Museums and Galleries
- Seminar in Contemporary Art Criticism
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the History of Art program are prepared for professional roles in museums, galleries, cultural institutions, academic research, and heritage organizations. Alumni may work as curators, art historians, archivists, collection managers, or educators, contributing to exhibitions, publications, and cultural programming. Many also pursue doctoral studies to advance research or teaching careers in higher education. The combination of critical analysis, research proficiency, and practical experience equips graduates to interpret, preserve, and communicate the significance of visual culture across diverse contexts, making them highly valued in both academic and cultural sectors.
Why Choose This Program
This program is distinguished by its comprehensive approach to art historical scholarship, curatorial training, research methodology, and visual analysis within a two-year framework. Students benefit from mentorship by renowned faculty, access to extensive museum collections, and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing them to develop both intellectual depth and professional competence. The curriculum emphasizes the integration of theory and practice, preparing graduates to lead research projects, design exhibitions, and communicate insights effectively. For those passionate about advancing knowledge, preserving cultural heritage, and shaping the understanding of art across societies, this program offers a rigorous, immersive, and career-focused educational pathway.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
