Art History Programs in Scottsdale, Arizona

Pursuing an Art History Degree in Scottsdale, Arizona

An Art History Degree is a comprehensive program that explores artistic movements, historical contexts, and cultural impacts. Whether you opt for a Bachelor of Arts, Master of Arts, or a PhD in Art History, this degree offers a blend of theoretical study and practical experience. Students can choose between on-campus courses at traditional universities and flexible online options, providing diverse educational paths.

About Scottsdale

Scottsdale, Arizona is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and active arts scene. The city is home to a range of art museums, galleries, and cultural events that make it an ideal location for art enthusiasts and aspiring art educators. For more information, visit the official Scottsdale website. Local landmarks include the Scottsdale Museum of the West and initiatives by Scottsdale Arts, which play a vital role in enriching the community’s cultural landscape.

Art History Programs in Scottsdale, Arizona

Students in Scottsdale and the surrounding areas have several options when it comes to pursuing an Art History Degree. While not all institutions are within the city limits, several nearby schools offer robust Art History programs.

  1. Arizona State University – Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts

    • Program Offerings: BA, MA, and PhD in Art History, with electives covering global art traditions such as Asian, African, and Latin American art.
    • Address & Neighborhood: Tempe campus, located in the central Tempe area, approximately 15 miles from Scottsdale.
    • Additional Details: The program encourages internships and research opportunities, often in collaboration with local museums like the Scottsdale Museum of the West.
    • Program Page: ASU Art Program

  2. Rio Salado College

    • Program Offerings: Offers art courses and fundamental studies in Art History that can complement a broader liberal arts education.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 3440 W Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85282, located in the Tempe region and roughly 15 miles from Scottsdale.
    • Additional Details: Known for its flexible scheduling and online course options, making it accessible for working professionals.
    • Program Page: Rio Salado College

  3. Phoenix College

    • Program Offerings: Provides introductory and advanced courses in Art History that prepare students for further academic pursuits or careers within museums and galleries.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 450 W Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85003, situated in downtown Phoenix and about 20 miles from Scottsdale.
    • Additional Details: Phoenix College offers a range of continuing education and community courses that bolster foundational art historical knowledge.
    • Program Page: Phoenix College

Art History Career Opportunities in Scottsdale, Arizona

A degree in Art History can open doors to various career paths in the cultural and museum sectors. Scottsdale and its neighboring areas have several prominent cultural institutions:

  • Scottsdale Museum of the West

    • Description: Showcases artworks and artifacts relating to the history of the American West.
    • Address & Neighborhood: Located in downtown Scottsdale, it offers unique programs and exhibitions.
    • Employment: Visit the museum’s official website for current job opportunities.

  • Scottsdale Arts

    • Description: Manages city-funded arts initiatives, artist residencies, and the annual Scottsdale Arts Festival.
    • Address & Neighborhood: Based in the heart of Scottsdale, it plays a central role in the local art scene.
    • Employment: Explore career opportunities by visiting their official website.

  • Phoenix Art Museum

    • Description: One of the nation’s largest art museums, this institution hosts extensive collections and exhibitions.
    • Address & Neighborhood: Situated in downtown Phoenix, approximately 16–20 miles from Scottsdale.
    • Employment: For job openings, check the museum’s official website.

For information on job prospects for Art Historians and related roles such as museum curators, please refer to the Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook page.

Prerequisites for Art History Programs

Admission into an Art History program generally requires a strong foundational background in liberal arts. Typical prerequisites include:

  • A minimum GPA of 2.0 for first-year undergraduate applicants.
  • Completion of essential preparatory courses, such as ENG 101/102 and ARS 101/102.
  • For graduate programs (MA/PhD), GRE scores are optional for MA candidates but required for PhD applicants.
  • Some programs may also require a portfolio review, especially for studio-based courses.

Art History Degree Requirements in Arizona

Earning an Art History degree in Arizona involves a comprehensive curriculum that balances core art historical courses with electives that allow for specialization. Key details include:

  • BA in Art History

    • Core courses such as ARS 101: Art from Prehistory Through Middle Ages.
    • Upper-division electives covering Asian, African, Native American, or Latin American art.
    • Minimum GPA requirement typically set at 2.0.
    • Admission prerequisites include courses in English and art fundamentals.

  • MA and PhD in Art History

    • MA programs may require GRE scores (optional for some) and include a portfolio review if relevant.
    • PhD applicants must pass comprehensive exams and complete a thesis or dissertation.
    • Coursework emphasizes advanced research, critical analysis, and interdisciplinary scholarship.

Additionally, students should be aware of the various official educational regulatory bodies in Scottsdale and Arizona that influence curriculum and funding:

  • Scottsdale Unified School District: Oversees K-12 education and arts programs in Scottsdale. Visit the Scottsdale USD website or call (480) 484-6100.
  • Maricopa County Education Service Agency (MCESA): Offers county-wide education resources. More details are available on the MCESA website or by calling (602) 506-3866.
  • Arizona Board of Regents (ABOR): Governs public universities in Arizona, including Arizona State University. For more information, visit the ABOR website or call (602) 229-2500.
  • U.S. Department of Education: Provides guidelines and federal funding resources. Their resources can be viewed on the Department of Education website.

Art History degrees from institutions such as ASU are accredited by reputable bodies including the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) and the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Get Started Today

Scottsdale offers a range of opportunities—from robust academic programs to thriving cultural institutions—that can enrich your pursuit of an Art History Degree. Use the information provided to explore available courses, understand degree requirements, and assess career prospects. Contact a school today using the inquiry forms on their websites to take the next step in your educational journey.