Art History Programs in Des Moines, Iowa

Pursuing an Art History Degree in Des Moines, Iowa

An Art History Degree offers a rigorous study of artistic movements, visual culture, and historical context. Prospective art educators and creative professionals can choose from various pathways, including thematic curricula that integrate studio experience, non-studio programs that emphasize critical analysis, and interdisciplinary studies. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the process to earn an Art History Degree in Des Moines, Iowa, and explores the range of available Art History programs.

About Des Moines, Iowa

Des Moines is a thriving metropolitan center that combines Midwestern charm with cultural sophistication. The city is home to numerous museums, galleries, and public art initiatives. For an official overview of the city’s services and events, visit the City of Des Moines official website. With iconic cultural institutions and a strong commitment to the arts, Des Moines offers a solid foundation for students pursuing studies in Art History.

Art History Programs in Des Moines, Iowa

A selection of local and nearby schools offers Art History programs and courses to students in Des Moines and the surrounding areas:

  • Drake University

    • Program: Bachelor of Arts in Art History
    • Description: Drake University’s program adopts a thematic approach by integrating studio experience with critical historical analysis. Students complete 26 credits in Art History alongside 38 total credits that include studio courses, culminating in a senior capstone research paper.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 2507 University Ave, in the University District of Des Moines, Iowa
    • Website: Drake University Art History Program

  • Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC)

    • Program: Liberal Arts courses with Art History concentration
    • Description: DMACC provides a variety of courses in Art History as part of its liberal arts curriculum. These courses support foundational art historical knowledge and prepare students for transfer to four-year programs.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 900 Seventh St, located in downtown Des Moines, Iowa
    • Website: DMACC Official Site

  • Iowa State University (Located in Ames, approximately 30 miles from Des Moines)

    • Program: Bachelor of Arts in Art History
    • Description: Iowa State University offers a non-studio-based curriculum that requires students to pursue a secondary major or minor (such as journalism or history). The program includes Core Design Program exposure and a requirement to complete two foreign language classes.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 215 Hutchinson Rd, Ames, IA 50010 (University Campus)
    • Website: Iowa State University Art History Page

Art History Career Opportunities in Des Moines, Iowa

Des Moines offers a wealth of opportunities in museums, galleries, and cultural institutions where graduates can apply their Art History expertise:

  • Des Moines Art Center

    • Description: The Des Moines Art Center is renowned for its innovative exhibitions and robust internship programs that facilitate professional growth. Its dynamic programming attracts local and national visitors, and the center often serves as a top employer in the cultural sector.
    • Neighborhood: Located in the downtown area of Des Moines
    • Website: Des Moines Art Center

  • Salisbury House & Gardens

    • Description: Salisbury House & Gardens provides valuable internship and historical preservation opportunities. It functions as a cultural hub offering exhibitions and educational programs within a historic setting.
    • Neighborhood: Situated in the suburban region surrounding Des Moines
    • Website: Salisbury House & Gardens

For further insight into job prospects for careers similar to art historians—such as museum curators and art educators—visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook page for archivists, curators, and conservators.

Prerequisites for Art History Programs

Applicants to Art History programs typically must meet several academic prerequisites:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent with a competitive GPA.
  • Standardized test scores in some instances.
  • For Drake University, no portfolio is required for admission, though scholarships may request a two-page writing sample.
  • Prospective students are encouraged to study a foreign language (often French or German) to complement their art historical research skills.
  • At Iowa State University, applicants must also choose a complementary secondary major or minor.

Art History Degree Requirements in Iowa

Art History degree programs in Iowa are designed with specific academic and curricular requirements tailored to provide well-rounded education:

  • Drake University requires 26 credits specifically in Art History, integrated within 38 total credits. The program emphasizes a thematic approach enriched by studio experience, culminating in a senior capstone independent research paper.
  • Iowa State University offers a non-studio-based Bachelor of Arts in Art History. Its curriculum mandates completion of a secondary program of study (such as journalism or history), exposure to a Core Design Program, and fulfillment of a two-class foreign language requirement.
  • Additional guidelines are informed by state agencies, such as the Iowa Early Learning Standards, which provide foundational education standards in art and social studies.

Get Started Today

The comprehensive opportunities found in Des Moines, Iowa, create an excellent environment for pursuing an Art History Degree. Whether you are drawn to the immersive thematic approach at Drake University or the interdisciplinary curriculum at Iowa State University, there is a pathway to fulfill your passion for art history. Consider reaching out to schools and fill out the available contact forms to begin your journey in art education today.