Art History Programs in Aurora, Colorado

Pursuing an Art History Degree in Aurora, Colorado

An Art History Degree provides students with the skills to analyze visual culture, conduct critical research, and interpret historical art trends. In Aurora, Colorado, prospective students can choose from a variety of education paths—from a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Art History that emphasizes a broad understanding of artistic movements to an Associate of Arts (A.A.) in Art History designed for transfer to four-year programs via Colorado’s statewide articulation agreement. This guide outlines the steps to earning an Art History Degree and the local options that are available.

About Aurora, Colorado

Aurora, Colorado offers a rich blend of cultural diversity and artistic heritage. Residents and students alike benefit from the city’s thriving arts scene, which includes notable cultural institutions and historical landmarks. For more detailed information about the city’s services and community events, visit the official Aurora website. Local museums and public art installations contribute to the educational ambiance, making Aurora a compelling place to begin an art history journey.

Art History Programs in Aurora, Colorado

While Aurora may not host a wide range of dedicated Art History programs within its borders, several nearby institutions offer comprehensive courses and degree programs.

  1. Front Range Community College – Aurora Campus

    • Address: 1801 S. Kalamath St, Aurora, CO 80012 (located in central Aurora)
    • Overview: The Aurora Campus of Front Range Community College offers liberal arts programs that include art-related courses. These courses provide a foundational understanding for students interested in transferring to a dedicated Art History Degree program.
    • Website: Front Range Community College – Aurora Campus

  2. University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver)

    • Address: 1080 17th St, Denver, CO 80202 (Downtown Denver, approximately 15 miles from Aurora)
    • Program: CU Denver offers a B.A. in Art History that integrates a built-in studio component and culminates in a thesis project or research seminar.
    • Program Details: Students benefit from comprehensive courses covering Ancient to Modern Art and specialized modules such as Art History: 1900 to Present.
    • Program Page: CU Denver Art History B.A.

  3. Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver)

    • Address: 1201 17th St, Denver, CO 80202 (Downtown Denver, approximately 15 miles from Aurora)
    • Overview: MSU Denver provides a range of liberal arts courses, including subjects related to art history. The program is designed to foster cultural understanding and critical analysis through its arts curriculum.
    • Website: MSU Denver

Art History Career Opportunities in Aurora, Colorado

Aurora and its neighboring communities are home to various cultural institutions that offer career opportunities for Art History graduates:

  • Aurora History Museum

    • Address: Located in central Aurora (exact address available on the city’s site)
    • Overview: This museum hosts a variety of exhibitions and provides internship opportunities, helping students gain practical experience in the field of art history.
    • Website: Aurora History Museum

  • Denver Art Museum

    • Address: 100 W 14th Ave Pkwy, Denver, CO 80204 (situated in the Golden Triangle neighborhood, approximately 15 miles from Aurora)
    • Overview: As one of the region’s largest art institutions, the Denver Art Museum offers a dynamic environment for professionals interested in curatorial work, education, or administration.
    • Website: Denver Art Museum

  • Denver Museum of Contemporary Art

    • Address: Located in downtown Denver (approximately 15 miles from Aurora)
    • Overview: This museum focuses on contemporary art and offers innovative platforms for emerging artists and art historians.
    • Website: Denver Museum of Contemporary Art

For insights on job prospects in related professions—such as museum curators and technicians—please refer to the Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook page.

Prerequisites for Art History Programs

Prospective students should meet several general prerequisites before enrolling in an Art History program:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent.
  • A minimum GPA of 2.5 is required for programs like CU Denver’s B.A. in Art History.
  • There is generally no requirement for a portfolio, and standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are not specified in the available sources.
  • Applicants should be prepared to engage in a curriculum that emphasizes critical analysis and detailed research.

Art History Degree Requirements in Colorado

Earning an Art History degree in Colorado involves meeting both institutional and state-specific educational criteria:

  • Core Courses:

    • Art History: Ancient to Medieval (e.g., ART 111)
    • Art History: Renaissance to Modern (e.g., ART 112)
    • Art History: 1900 to Present (e.g., ART 207)
      These courses are designed to provide a broad chronological understanding of art movements. A capstone project or research seminar is typically required to complete the degree.

  • Degree Types and Specializations:

    • Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Art History: Focused on critical thinking, research, and visual culture analysis with specializations like Ancient to Modern Art, 20th-Century Art, and interdisciplinary studies.
    • Associate of Arts (A.A.) in Art History: Offers coursework suitable for transfer to a four-year program under Colorado’s statewide articulation agreement.

  • Accreditation:

    • Programs are typically accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), ensuring program quality and transferability.

  • Regulatory and Oversight Information:

    • Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE): Oversees higher education policies in the state, including statewide transfer agreements.
    • U.S. Department of Education: Federal policies and funding information are available on the Department of Education website.

  • Additional Resources and Professional Organizations:

    • CU Denver Visual Arts Department: Offers in-depth programs with practical studio components. Visit the CU Denver Art History page.
    • Colorado Arts & Culture: Provides resources for funding and grants via Colorado Arts & Culture.
    • College Art Association (CAA): Supports art history scholarship and professional development. Visit CAA for more information.

Get Started Today

The comprehensive educational and career opportunities available in Aurora, Colorado, provide an encouraging pathway for aspiring art historians. With access to programs that emphasize analytical skills, rich cultural experiences, and professional growth, now is the ideal time to explore your potential. Reach out to your chosen institution using the contact forms on their official pages and take the first step toward a rewarding career in art history.