Art History Programs in Louisiana

Getting an Art History Degree in Louisiana

Earning an Art History Degree in Louisiana opens up a world of academic inquiry and cultural exploration. An Art History Degree equips graduates with a comprehensive understanding of artistic developments, critical analysis of artworks, and the ability to interpret cultural narratives. Students may choose from various education paths such as a Bachelor of Arts, a combined 4+1 BA/MA program, or a minor that supplements other majors.

Why Study Art History in Louisiana

Louisiana offers a rich cultural landscape that is ideal for art history studies. For more detailed state information, visit the official Louisiana website. The state boasts a thriving arts scene with numerous museums, galleries, and cultural institutions. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, museum curators—which include many art history professionals—earn an average salary in the low-to-mid $60,000 range, with a job growth projection detailed on the BLS career outlook page. Such statistics illustrate promising career opportunities for those passionate about art history.

Prerequisites for Art History Programs

Typically, applicants to Art History programs are expected to have completed secondary education with a strong academic record. For instance, Tulane University requires a minimum GPA of 3.25 in the major for its BA in Art History program. In addition, the 4+1 BA/MA track at Tulane calls for an overall GPA of 3.0, a statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation, a writing sample, and adherence to the January 10 application deadline (junior year). Louisiana State University welcomes undergraduates into its Art History minor provided they meet course prerequisites—with no additional GPA requirement or formal application process.

Typical Program Curriculum

Art History programs generally cover a range of subjects that include visual culture, art criticism, museum studies, and the interpretation of art in social and historical contexts. At Tulane University, the BA in Art History requires 126 credits, including three advanced seminars (6000 level) and a thesis project. Specializations such as Ancient/Early Modern and Modern/Contemporary are available in the MA in Art History program. Meanwhile, LSU’s Art History minor comprises 15 credits with courses like ARTH 1440 (Survey of Western Art) and ARTH 1441, supplemented by 12 advanced credit hours that deepen students’ analytical skills.

Art History Programs in Louisiana

Tulane University

  • Programs Offered: BA in Art History and a 4+1 BA/MA Program
  • Program Details: The BA program requires 126 credits with an emphasis on advanced seminars and a thesis. The accelerated 4+1 track reduces tuition in the fifth year and requires a thesis defense. Admission for the 4+1 program requires a 3.0 overall GPA (3.25 in the major), a statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation, and a writing sample; the application deadline is January 10 of the junior year.
  • Local Benefits: Located in New Orleans, Tulane enjoys partnerships with local institutions like the New Orleans Museum of Art, Contemporary Arts Center, and Latin American Library.
  • Contact & More Information: For further details, visit the Tulane University homepage.

Louisiana State University (LSU)

  • Programs Offered: Art History Minor
  • Program Details: The minor consists of 15 credits and includes foundational courses such as ARTH 1440 (Survey of Western Art) and ARTH 1441, as well as 12 advanced credit hours. There are no specific GPA requirements or additional admissions processes beyond meeting course prerequisites.
  • Local Benefits: LSU is situated in Baton Rouge, a city that blends academic rigor with rich cultural experiences.
  • Contact & More Information: Additional information is available on the LSU official website.

Art History Career Opportunities in Louisiana

Louisiana is home to several prestigious museums, galleries, and cultural institutions that serve as excellent career launching pads for Art History graduates.

  • New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA):

    • Overview: NOMA hosts temporary and permanent exhibitions and collaborates closely with local academic programs.
    • Employment Opportunities: Interested candidates can explore job openings at the NOMA careers page.
    • Location: Based in New Orleans, NOMA is a cornerstone of the region’s art scene.

  • Contemporary Arts Center:

    • Overview: This institution supports contemporary art exhibitions and programs that foster innovative visual arts practices.
    • Employment Opportunities: For potential career opportunities, visit the Contemporary Arts Center website.
    • Location: Located in New Orleans, it adds modern appeal to the cultural fabric of the city.

  • Additional Local Institutions: Local galleries and cultural centers frequently host exhibitions and residencies, offering positions in curation, education, and administration.

Professional Organizations and Resources

Art History professionals in Louisiana benefit from various organizations and resources:

  • National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD):

    • Purpose: Accredits institutions offering art and design programs to ensure quality standards.
    • Website: NASAD
    • Contact: (703) 437-0700, [email protected]

  • Louisiana Board of Regents:

    • Purpose: Oversees higher education in Louisiana, including program approvals and academic resources.
    • Website: Louisiana Board of Regents

  • College Art Association (CAA):

    • Purpose: Promotes art history and studio art education with resources like job listings and annual conferences.
    • Website: College Art Association

  • Tulane Career Center:

    • Purpose: Provides resume reviews, internship placements, and alumni networking to support career advancement.
    • Website: Tulane Career Center

  • National Endowment for the Arts (NEA):

    • Purpose: Funds arts initiatives, including academic programs.
    • Website: NEA

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of Art History programs in Louisiana can vary widely based on the institution and program level. Undergraduate tuition and fees, especially at private institutions like Tulane University, tend to be higher compared to public universities such as LSU. Prospective students can explore a variety of financial aid options including scholarships, grants, and student loans. Resources like the Federal Student Aid website provide comprehensive guidance on managing tuition costs. Additionally, both Tulane University and LSU offer on-campus financial aid counseling to assist with scholarships and grants.

Career Advancement Opportunities

Graduates with an Art History degree can pursue various career paths in academic curation, museum education, archival work, and cultural management. In Louisiana, career advancement may also involve pursuing additional certifications or advanced degrees such as a Master’s in Art History from Tulane University. These specialized credentials often enhance job prospects in competitive fields. For professional development, candidates can rely on state-specific resources and organizations like the Tulane Career Center and the Louisiana Board of Regents.

Get Started Today

Louisiana provides exceptional opportunities for those looking to immerse themselves in art history studies while enjoying a dynamic cultural environment. With comprehensive programs at Tulane University and LSU, abundant career opportunities, and robust support from organizations and state agencies, there has never been a better time to embark on your Art History education journey. Explore your options, reach out to schools through their contact forms, and take the first step toward a fulfilling career in art history.