Art History Programs in Chicago, Illinois

Pursuing an Art History Degree in Chicago, Illinois

Earning an Art History Degree in Chicago, Illinois offers a comprehensive pathway for those wishing to explore the study of art, its historical context, and critical theory. An Art History degree can lead to various career opportunities, including roles as museum curators, art critics, and gallery managers. Educational paths vary from undergraduate studies such as Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) programs to graduate degrees like Master of Arts (MA) and Dual Degree options combining Art History with Arts Administration.

In Chicago, individuals may choose programs that emphasize classical methodologies as well as modern and contemporary approaches. Prospective students should explore local course offerings to gain practical experience through internships at renowned institutions like the Art Institute of Chicago.

About Chicago

Chicago is a major cultural hub with a rich history in the arts. The city offers abundant opportunities for art enthusiasts, with iconic museums, galleries, and public art installations. For more detailed local information, visit the City of Chicago’s official website. Local landmarks such as Millennium Park and the Chicago Riverwalk enhance the educational experience by providing real-world contexts to classroom theory.

Art History Programs in Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is home to several institutions that offer robust Art History programs. Below are three key schools, complete with addresses, neighborhoods, and links to their program pages:

  1. School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC)

    • Program Details: Offers MA programs including a Dual Degree (MAAH + MAAP) with a global art focus.
    • Address: 800 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605
    • Neighborhood: Loop
    • Website: SAIC

  2. University of Chicago

    • Program Details: Provides BA, MA, and PhD options in Art History with interdisciplinary research opportunities.
    • Address: 5801 S Ellis Ave, Chicago, IL 60637
    • Neighborhood: Hyde Park
    • Program Page: UChicago Art History Department

  3. University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC)

    • Program Details: Offers BA and MA degrees in Art History, emphasizing public art initiatives and scholarly research.
    • Address: 1200 W Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60607
    • Neighborhood: West Side
    • Website: UIC

Art History Career Opportunities in Chicago, Illinois

Chicago’s flourishing art scene provides numerous career opportunities through its world-class museums, galleries, and cultural institutions. Some prominent organizations include:

  • Art Institute of Chicago

    • Description: A leading art museum known for its extensive collections and research initiatives.
    • Neighborhood: Loop
    • Website: Art Institute of Chicago (visit the site for current employment opportunities)

  • Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago

  • The Field Museum

    • Description: A major natural history museum that also hosts art and cultural exhibits.
    • Neighborhood: Near South Loop
    • Website: The Field Museum

For career outlook and job prospects in the field of art history and museum work, refer to the Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook page.

Prerequisites for Art History Programs

Prospective students should be prepared to meet program prerequisites that typically include:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent.
  • A minimum GPA requirement as determined by each institution.
  • Standardized test scores or entrance exams in some cases.
  • For BFA programs, a portfolio submission is often required.

Art History Degree Requirements in Illinois

Learning in Illinois is supported by multiple educational and regulatory bodies at the city, county, and state levels. Notable organizations include:

  • City Educational Regulatory Bodies:

    • City of Chicago Department of Education – Oversees public education and arts initiatives. Contact: (312) 744-4000; Website
    • Chicago Higher Education Commission – Coordinates postsecondary education initiatives. Contact: (312) 746-7000; Website

  • County Educational Regulatory Body:

    • Cook County Department of Education – Manages educational programs and services in Cook County. Contact: (312) 603-6600; Website

  • State and Federal Oversight:

    • Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) – Oversees higher education policies. Contact: (217) 557-7359; Website
    • Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) – Manages K-12 and postsecondary standards. Contact: (217) 782-4321; Website
    • U.S. Department of Education – Website
    • National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) – Website

Types of Art History Degrees in Illinois:

  • Bachelor of Arts (BA): Focuses on art history, theory, and criticism.
  • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA): Combines studio practice with art history coursework; requires a portfolio.
  • Master of Arts (MA): Specializes in modern and contemporary art history.
  • Dual Degree (MAAH + MAAP): Merges art history with arts administration.

Admission and Curriculum Requirements:

  • Undergraduate Programs:
    • Typical application deadline is February 1 for merit scholarships.
    • BFA programs require an art portfolio.
  • Graduate Programs:
    • Application deadlines are usually around March 1 with no GRE requirement.
  • Core Courses:
    • Art historical methodologies, global art studies.
  • Specializations:
    • Focus on modern/contemporary art as well as Asian, African, Latin American, and European art.
  • Practical Experience:
    • Internships at institutions like the Art Institute of Chicago are encouraged.
  • Accreditation:
    • Programs are verified through the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).

Professional Organizations:

  • College Art Association (CAA) – Promotes art history and studio practice; Website
  • American Alliance of Museums (AAM) – Supports museum professionals; Website

Institution-Specific Highlights:

  • School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC): Offers advanced and dual degree programs with a global focus.
  • University of Chicago: Provides interdisciplinary research opportunities in Art History.
  • University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC): Emphasizes public art initiatives within its BA and MA programs.

Additional resources, including state-level support, can be found through the Illinois Arts Council, Chicago Cultural Affairs and Special Events, and Cook County Arts and Culture.

Get Started Today

Aspiring art historians in Chicago are encouraged to explore these opportunities and take the first step toward a rewarding career in the arts. With diverse programs and a robust local cultural scene, now is the time to reach out and learn more about your educational future. Contact your preferred school today via the forms on their website pages.