We use cookies and similar technologies to improve your website experience and help us understand how you use our website. By continuing to use this website, you consent to the usage of cookies. Learn more about our Privacy Statement and Cookie Policy.
Career pathways and opportunities for Art History majors
Considering a degree in Art History? Here, you’ll find information on common career paths, types of employers that hire in the field, and the in-demand skills you’ll develop as an Art History major. You’ll also learn steps you can take as an Art History student to maximize career opportunities.
a broad range of artistic traditions and processes from across the globe, in their historical and cultural frameworks and as they evolve through time, through historical coursework
how to operate with confidence in the professional world of museums and arts institutions through exposure via coursework, supplemented by any internship and travel experiences abroad
how to examine cultural products with a critical eye informed by current modes of critical and theoretical thought
Critical thinking, professional writing, problem solving, visual literacy and evidence-based research, which prepare art history majors for a range of career opportunities
Conduct cultural research using a range of sources, including traditional print sources and online image and archival databases
Explore the impact of technology on the dissemination and reception of visual objects
Interpret a culture’s values and beliefs, showing visual literacy and using current modes of critical and theoretical thought
Classify and catalog artifacts. Prepare materials for preservation, storage, or display
Describe and present research about historical topics to an audience using audio-visuals, through directed research seminars
Recommend actions related to historical art, such as which items to add to a collection or which items to display in an exhibit
Art History majors can use the skills they learned to pursue a range of careers. A BA in Art History also prepares students for graduate studies in various fields, including art history conservation, architecture and law, which will provide qualifications for specific professions.
Museum and gallery preservation, conservation, or collections management (in the public, private, or nonprofit sectors)
University professors
Art and estate appraisal and sale
Development, fundraising, or grant writing
K-12 education
Educational program coordination for arts councils or historical commissions
Library/Information sciences
Archival management
Tourism
Legal sector work such as IP law
Publishing
To best prepare to enter or advance in your career field of interest, prioritize gaining specialized knowledge and experiences most valued by employers. This might include internships, on- or off-campus jobs, research experience, a minor, or a certification.
Make diligent efforts at developing writing, research and language skills, which will give graduates an advantage in a range of careers.
Complete internships or volunteer in museums or galleries.
Complement your learning with further study in history, religion, anthropology, business, and a foreign language.
Develop skills in business management, technology, marketing, fundraising and grant writing to increase marketability.
Develop a network of contacts through informational interviews and referrals to help you become a more competitive applicant.
Enhance your credentials based on your career goals
Prepare for graduate study in certain fields by maintaining a high GPA and developing your network for strong recommendations. Advanced degrees are often essential for advancement.