Art History Programs in St. Louis, Missouri

Pursuing an Art History Degree in St. Louis, Missouri

Pursuing an Art History degree in St. Louis, Missouri opens a pathway to explore the rich legacy of art and culture while developing critical analytical skills. An Art History degree can lead to diverse career opportunities in museums, galleries, and academic institutions. Aspirants can choose from various educational paths, including Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Master of Arts (M.A.) programs that emphasize research, critical analysis, and practical experience in museum studies.

About St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis is a city known for its deep-rooted cultural heritage and art institutions. The area offers numerous landmarks, a flourishing museum scene, and vibrant cultural districts that attract art enthusiasts nationwide. Learn more about the city by visiting the official St. Louis website. The city’s impressive array of courses, local art history programs, and nearby museums create an ideal environment for aspiring art historians.

Art History Programs in St. Louis, Missouri

Several institutions provide comprehensive Art History programs and courses in the St. Louis area. Here are three key schools:

  • Saint Louis University (SLU) – St. Louis, MO

    • Program: B.A. in Art History
    • Address & Neighborhood: 3600 Laclede Ave, St. Louis, MO 63103 (near the Central West End)
    • Details: The SLU program offers 37 credits covering art historical methodologies, global art traditions, and hands-on learning through on-campus museums and galleries. For more information, visit the Saint Louis University Art History Program page.

  • Lindenwood University – St. Charles, MO (Approx. 25 miles from St. Louis)

    • Programs: B.A. in Art History and Visual Culture; M.A. in Art History and Visual Culture
    • Address & Neighborhood: 1401 North Kirkwood, St. Charles, MO 63301 (located in the historic downtown area of St. Charles)
    • Details: Lindenwood University integrates digital technologies like AI and VR into its curriculum. The undergraduate fast-track option requires a minimum 3.3 GPA along with a rigorous course load, while the graduate track focuses on immersive research projects. Visit the Lindenwood University website for further details.

  • University of Missouri – St. Louis (UMSL) – St. Louis, MO

    • Program: B.A. in Art History (and related interdisciplinary courses)
    • Address & Neighborhood: 1 University Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63121 (situated in the Midtown district)
    • Details: UMSL offers a broad range of art-related courses that combine traditional art history with contemporary cultural discussions. Prospective students can explore their offerings on the UMSL official website.

Art History Career Opportunities in St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis is home to several leading cultural institutions that offer career opportunities for art historians:

  • Saint Louis Art Museum

    • Address & Neighborhood: 1 Fine Arts Dr, St. Louis, MO 63112 (located within the expansive Forest Park)
    • Details: One of the city’s premier museums, it hosts exhibitions, lectures, and workshops. Visit the Saint Louis Art Museum website for employment opportunities and more information.

  • Citygarden

    • Address & Neighborhood: 813 Olive St, St. Louis, MO 63101 (in the downtown area)
    • Details: A unique urban sculpture park that bridges art and landscape, Citygarden supports various creative projects and offers job opportunities. For details on current openings, explore the official Citygarden website.

  • Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis

    • Address & Neighborhood: 3200 Forest Park Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108 (nestled in the vibrant Central West End)
    • Details: Dedicated to showcasing progressive art, this museum often collaborates with local universities and professional organizations. Check out the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis website for career prospects and program updates.

For further career outlook data, refer to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Art Historians job outlook page.

Prerequisites for Art History Programs

Generally, admission to Art History programs requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Specific prerequisites include:

  • A competitive GPA, with Lindenwood University requiring a minimum of 3.3 GPA for its fast-track undergraduate program.
  • A strong portfolio of critical analysis and written communication, although not all programs require a formal portfolio submission.
  • Some programs may request standardized test scores, while SLU emphasizes applicants’ research and analytical abilities rather than specific scores.

Art History Degree Requirements in Missouri

Art History degree requirements in Missouri vary by institution but generally include:

  • Core Courses:
    • SLU’s B.A. program requires 37 credits covering courses in art historical methodologies, critical analysis, and social history.
    • Lindenwood University requires 36 credits for the undergraduate degree and 30 credits for the graduate degree, integrating digital technologies and immersive research projects.
  • Practical Experience: Institutions like SLU emphasize on-campus learning experiences via access to museums and galleries.
  • Regulatory Oversight:

Get Started Today

Embarking on an Art History degree in St. Louis, Missouri is an opportunity to connect with rich cultural resources and contribute to the evolving conversation around art and history. With extensive programs, dedicated cultural institutions, and clear career pathways, prospective students are encouraged to explore these options and take the next step. Research the programs that best fit your aspirations and reach out through the contact forms provided on each institution’s page.