Art History Programs in Worcester, Massachusetts
Pursuing an Art History Degree in Worcester, Massachusetts
An Art History degree offers a comprehensive exploration of art, culture, and critical analysis. This field provides diverse educational paths such as a Bachelor of Arts in Art History, minors, and specialized graduate programs. Prospective students can choose from courses, internships, and capstone projects that emphasize theoretical knowledge alongside practical museum experience.
About Worcester, Massachusetts
Worcester is a historic city with a rich cultural landscape in central Massachusetts. The city hosts several arts organizations and notable landmarks, including the Worcester Art Museum and the Shovel Town Cultural District. For more information about the city, visit the official Worcester website.
Art History Programs in Worcester, Massachusetts
Worcester offers robust options for local Art History studies. Below is a list of three programs available in or near the city:
Holy Cross College
- Program: Bachelor of Arts in Art History
- Features: Offers courses like VAHI 100: Introduction to Visual Arts, a Studio Art Requirement (VAST 101: Fundamentals of Drawing), and a Capstone Seminar (VAHI 400). Students also enjoy internship opportunities in collaboration with the Worcester Art Museum.
- Address & Neighborhood: Holy Cross College is located in downtown Worcester (approx. 200 Main Street, Worcester, MA).
- More Information: Art History Major Program
Assumption University
- Program: Art History Minor
- Features: Provides internship opportunities with local galleries and museums along with a senior seminar emphasizing global art movements.
- Address & Neighborhood: Situated in downtown Worcester at 80 North Main Street, Worcester, MA 01610.
- More Information: Assumption University Art History
University of Massachusetts Amherst (Approx. 45 miles from Worcester)
- Program: Offers specialized courses and a Museum Studies Certificate with a focus on art history.
- Features: Emphasizes interdisciplinary studies and practical museum work alongside a strong academic curriculum.
- Address & Neighborhood: Located at 160 Governors Drive, Amherst, MA 01003 in the heart of Amherst.
- More Information: Visit the UMass Amherst website for program details.
Art History Career Opportunities in Worcester, Massachusetts
Worcester serves as a hub for art and cultural institutions that offer excellent career opportunities for Art History graduates. Consider these institutions for internships and employment:
Worcester Art Museum
- A major museum offering access to diverse collections and educational programs. It is centrally located at 55 Salisbury Street in downtown Worcester.
- Visit the Worcester Art Museum
Shovel Town Cultural District
- Promotes arts and cultural activities throughout Worcester. This initiative fosters community engagement and supports local creative businesses.
- Learn about the Shovel Town Cultural District
Worcester County Arts & Culture Alliance
- Focuses on promoting county-wide arts programs and cultural initiatives.
- Visit Worcester County Arts & Culture Alliance
For additional career insight and salary ranges for Art Historians, check the Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook page.
Prerequisites for Art History Programs
Prospective students should meet the following prerequisites before enrolling:
- A high school diploma or equivalent qualification.
- A minimum GPA as required by the admissions committee.
- Entrance exams may be required for certain graduate programs.
- A portfolio is recommended for studio art courses.
- Some advanced programs may require GRE scores.
Art History Degree Requirements in Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, Art History degree programs adhere to rigorous academic standards. The regulatory bodies ensuring quality education include:
- Worcester Public Schools
Oversees K-12 education and arts programs in Worcester.
Worcester Public Schools | Contact: (508) 799-3000 - Worcester County Superintendent of Schools
Coordinates education services across Worcester County.
Worcester County Superintendent | Contact: (508) 792-7871 - Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE)
Sets statewide standards, including those for art education.
Massachusetts DESE | Contact: (781) 338-3000 - U.S. Department of Education
Oversees federal education policies and funding.
U.S. Department of Education | Office of Postsecondary Education
State-Specific Degree Information
- Types of Degrees Offered:
- Bachelor of Arts in Art History (Holy Cross College)
- Art History Minor (Assumption University)
- Specializations:
- Islamic Art, Art of Africa and the Americas, Arts of Asia
- Modern Architecture, Museum Studies
- Admission Requirements:
- Undergraduate: Holy Cross College requires no standardized tests; a portfolio is recommended for studio art courses.
- Graduate: Advanced programs may require GRE scores.
- Curriculum Requirements:
- Core courses include VAHI 100, VAST 101, and VAHI 400.
- Internship opportunities, such as partnerships with the Worcester Art Museum, provide practical experience.
- Accreditation:
- Programs are accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
Professional Organizations and Resources
- College Art Association (CAA):
College Art Association offers networking, job listings, and conference access. - Worcester Art Museum (WAM):
Provides internships, exhibitions, and community engagement opportunities.
Worcester Art Museum - Shovel Town Cultural District:
Supports arts and cultural activities in Worcester.
Shovel Town Cultural District - Massachusetts Cultural Council:
Massachusetts Cultural Council funds arts initiatives and offers grants. - Worcester Cultural District:
Worcester Cultural District supports local arts and cultural businesses. - Worcester County Arts & Culture Alliance:
Promotes county-wide arts programs.
Worcester County Arts & Culture Alliance
Get Started Today
The path toward earning an Art History degree in Worcester, Massachusetts is filled with enriching learning experiences and professional opportunities. With robust academic programs, supportive local institutions, and state-level resources, now is an ideal time to take the next step. Contact a school today using the forms provided on their websites to begin your academic journey.