Art History Programs in Kansas City, Missouri

Pursuing an Art History Degree in Kansas City, Missouri

An Art History Degree opens doors to a world of cultural analysis, museum curation, and academic research. This guide outlines the paths available in Kansas City, Missouri, by exploring different educational options, degree types, and requirements. Prospective students can choose between Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Bachelor of Arts (BA), and certificate programs, each offering a unique focus on artistic traditions and critical inquiry.

About Kansas City

Kansas City, Missouri, is known for its rich cultural tapestry and numerous art institutions. The city is home to landmark cultural sites such as the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. For more information about the city, visit the official website of Kansas City. This vibrant art scene creates an ideal setting for art historians and creative professionals looking to engage in the study of art history.

Art History Programs in Kansas City, Missouri

Local schools offer a range of Art History programs that provide comprehensive curricula and real-world connections. Below is a list of three institutions:

  1. Kansas City Art Institute (KCAI)

    • Degree Programs: BFA in Art History with an integrated studio practice component.
    • Admission Requirements: Requires a portfolio review consisting of 15-20 pieces of artwork; SAT/ACT scores are optional for 2024 applicants.
    • Curriculum Highlights: Core courses include Art Historical Studies I-II and Global/Comparative Art; students benefit from internships at local museums such as the Nelson-Atkins.
    • Accreditation: Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
    • Address & Neighborhood: 5341 Oak Street, Kansas City, MO 64110 – located near the Museum District.
    • Website: https://kcai.edu/

  2. University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC)

    • Degree Programs: BA in Art History with integrated foreign language requirements.
    • Admission Requirements: A minimum 2.5 GPA is required for transfer students; there is no portfolio submission required.
    • Curriculum Highlights: Students must achieve foreign language proficiency by the third semester and complete six upper-level electives focusing on non-Western art.
    • Accreditation: Regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
    • Address & Neighborhood: 5100 Rockhill Road, Kansas City, MO 64110 – situated in a central urban area.
    • Website: https://catalog.umkc.edu/

  3. Rockhurst University

    • Degree Programs: Although primarily known for its comprehensive liberal arts education, Rockhurst University offers courses in art history that complement their arts curriculum.
    • Admission Requirements: Standard university admissions apply with an emphasis on academic performance.
    • Distance & Location: Located in Kansas City, MO at 4001 Troost Avenue, which is approximately 3 miles from downtown, in the Brookside neighborhood.
    • Website: https://www.rockhurst.edu/

Art History Career Opportunities in Kansas City

Kansas City offers abundant career opportunities for Art History graduates. Major institutions that contribute to the local art ecosystem include:

  • Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

    • A world-class museum located in the heart of the city, known for its extensive collection and educational programs.
    • For employment opportunities and internships, visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art official website.
    • Neighborhood: Museum District

  • Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art

    • Offers students and professionals a dynamic setting to explore contemporary art with free admission events designed for community engagement.
    • Visit the Kemper Museum’s official website for more details.
    • Neighborhood: Located within the city’s cultural corridor

  • Kansas City Art Institute Gallery

    • Serves as a showcase for both student and professional exhibitions and offers insights into the practical aspect of art history careers.
    • Check out the KC Art Institute Gallery for current exhibitions and potential career events.
    • Neighborhood: Near the downtown arts district

Additionally, interested individuals can review the job outlook for Art Historians and related professions on the Bureau of Labor Statistics page.

Prerequisites for Art History Programs

Enrollment in Art History programs typically requires:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Maintaining a minimum GPA; for instance, UMKC requires at least a 2.5 GPA for transfer students.
  • A portfolio review, particularly for the BFA program at KCAI, where 15-20 pieces must be submitted.
  • Some programs may also require standardized test scores, although these are optional for certain applicants (as in the case of KCAI for 2024).

Art History Degree Requirements in Missouri

Earning an Art History Degree in Missouri involves meeting both general academic requirements and specific program components:

  • Degree Types:

    • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA): Focuses on studio practice alongside rigorous art historical coursework. (Example: KCAI BFA)
    • Bachelor of Arts (BA): Involves comprehensive art historical studies, including a foreign language requirement and advanced electives (Example: UMKC BA).
    • Certificate Programs: Offer specialized courses such as Asian Studies, available through KCAI.

  • Curriculum & Core Courses:

    • KCAI’s BFA includes core courses like Art Historical Studies I-II and Global/Comparative Art, coupled with hands-on internships at institutions like the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.
    • UMKC’s BA demands proficiency in a foreign language by the third semester, complemented by six upper-level electives focusing on non-Western art.

  • Regulatory Requirements & Accreditation:

    • The Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development oversees state-level education policies that apply to higher education programs. Additional local oversight is provided by the Kansas City Board of Education and Jackson County Government, although these bodies do not directly regulate higher education.
    • At the federal level, the U.S. Department of Education (see https://www.ed.gov/) sets national education standards including financial aid policies.

  • Professional Organizations & Resources:

Get Started Today

Pursuing an Art History Degree in Kansas City, Missouri, is a promising step toward a fulfilling career in art and cultural institutions. With a range of programs, well-defined prerequisites, and extensive local opportunities, candidates are encouraged to explore all options. Contact a school today through the forms on their website and take the first step toward an engaging future in art history.