Art History Programs in Tempe, Arizona

Pursuing an Art History Degree in Tempe, Arizona

Earning an Art History degree in Tempe, Arizona opens doors to an expansive exploration of creative heritage and cultural analysis. Prospective students can choose from various education paths, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral studies. Whether through a comprehensive Bachelor’s program, a Master’s concentration, or a PhD focusing on design, theory, and cultural criticism, an Art History degree provides the academic rigor and interdisciplinary approaches needed for advanced study in the arts. For career guidance and market trends, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Art History job outlook page.

About Tempe, Arizona

Tempe is a bustling city in Maricopa County with a rich cultural scene, historic landmarks, and diverse art institutions. Home to major higher education institutions and local cultural centers such as the Tempe Center for the Arts, the city offers a creative environment for those pursuing an Art History degree. To learn more about the city’s vibrant community and local events, please visit the official Tempe city website.

Art History Programs in Tempe, Arizona

The Tempe area is a hub for higher education with several institutions offering courses and degree programs in Art History. Detailed below are three key institutions:

  1. Arizona State University (ASU) – Tempe Campus

    • Location & Neighborhood: Located in downtown Tempe, ASU is nestled in a central urban setting.
    • Program Details: ASU offers robust programs through its Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts. These include a PhD in Design, Environment, and the Arts, as well as Bachelor’s and Master’s programs that incorporate interdisciplinary studies in art history, design theory, and cultural criticism.
    • Program Page: For comprehensive details, visit Herberger Institute.
    • Address: Tempe Campus, Tempe, AZ 85281.

  2. Mesa Community College – Mesa, Arizona (Approximately 10 miles from Tempe)

    • Location & Neighborhood: Situated in Mesa, this college provides accessible courses in art history and related subjects for students based in Tempe.
    • Program Details: While primarily a community college, Mesa Community College offers courses that serve as excellent stepping stones into further Art History studies.
    • Program Page: Visit Mesa Community College for course listings and enrollment details.
    • Address: 2100 S. Center Street, Mesa, AZ 85202.

  3. Scottsdale Community College – Scottsdale, Arizona (Approximately 16 miles from Tempe)

    • Location & Neighborhood: Located in Scottsdale’s vibrant arts district, the college provides art history courses that complement local museum and gallery resources.
    • Program Details: Scottsdale Community College offers a curriculum focused on art history fundamentals, making it a solid option for students seeking a liberal arts foundation.
    • Program Page: More information is available at Scottsdale Community College.
    • Address: 7151 E. Indian School Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85251.

Art History Career Opportunities in Tempe, Arizona

Tempe and its surrounding areas boast several cultural institutions and galleries that not only enrich local art education but also offer career opportunities:

  • Tempe Center for the Arts

    • Description: A central venue for exhibitions, community workshops, and arts education programs located in downtown Tempe.
    • Opportunities: The center frequently offers roles in exhibition curation and arts management.
    • Website: Visit Tempe Center for the Arts for employment opportunities and event schedules.

  • Heard Museum – Phoenix, Arizona (Approximately 15 miles from Tempe)

    • Description: Recognized for its focus on Native American art and culture, the Heard Museum offers diverse roles from curatorial positions to educational outreach.
    • Neighborhood: Located in a prominent part of Phoenix, the museum serves as a prestigious cultural landmark within Maricopa County.
    • Website: For more details, check out the Heard Museum.

These institutions, along with various galleries and local cultural programs, contribute to promising career paths for art historians and related professionals.

Prerequisites for Art History Programs

Prospective students should be mindful of the following typical prerequisites:

  • Undergraduate/Graduate Admissions: Applicants usually require a high school diploma, official transcripts, and standardized test scores (SAT/ACT). A minimum GPA of 3.0 is common, along with portfolio submissions for studio-based programs.
  • PhD Programs: Applicants are expected to hold a master’s degree and submit a statement of purpose, official transcripts, and letters of recommendation. GRE scores may also be required.

These requirements ensure candidates are well-prepared to undertake rigorous academic and research-intensive studies in Art History.

Art History Degree Requirements in Arizona

In Arizona, degree requirements for Art History programs emphasize both theoretical knowledge and practical application. Key elements include:

  • Core Courses: Fundamental subjects such as art history, design theory, environmental studies, and interdisciplinary research methodologies are integral to the curriculum.
  • Specializations: Students may focus on niches like urban design, sustainability, and cultural criticism.
  • Advanced Requirements:
    • PhD candidates are required to complete a comprehensive dissertation or engage in public practice projects.
    • All programs maintain standards verified through accreditation by bodies like the NASAD Accreditation Directory.
  • Regulatory Oversight:
    • City Level: Tempe Department of Education (31 E. 5th St., Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 350-8000) oversees local educational initiatives.
    • County Level: Maricopa County Education Service Agency (4041 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85012 | (602) 506-3866) supports broader educational programs.
    • State Level: The Arizona Board of Regents (contact: (602) 229-2500) governs public universities, including ASU, while the Arizona Commission on the Arts promotes statewide arts education.
    • Federal Level: The U.S. Department of Education provides overarching policy and funding support. Visit the U.S. Department of Education for additional information.

Get Started Today

Embarking on an Art History degree in Tempe, Arizona is both a challenging and rewarding journey. With a strong network of educational institutions, cultural organizations, and professional resources, prospective students have ample support to succeed in their academic and career endeavors. Contact your chosen school today through their official forms to begin your exploration in Art History.