Art History Programs in Lincoln, Nebraska

Pursuing an Art History Degree in Lincoln, Nebraska

Individuals interested in an Art History degree in Lincoln, Nebraska can explore a variety of educational paths. An Art History Degree typically encompasses the study of visual culture, historical art movements, and the evolution of artistic expression. Programs may vary from Bachelor of Arts degrees that include comprehensive coursework and capstone projects to more specialized tracks that prepare graduates for advanced studies or direct entry into the museum and cultural sectors. This guide explains the options available locally, career opportunities, prerequisites, and state-specific degree requirements.

About Lincoln, Nebraska

Lincoln is the capital of Nebraska and offers a rich cultural landscape with significant historic landmarks, museums, and arts organizations. The city is home to institutions that support the growth of creative professionals and art educators. For more information on local initiatives and community resources, please visit the City of Lincoln’s official website. Local landmarks such as the state capitol and numerous public art installations bring history to life, enhancing the academic study of Art History.

Art History Programs in Lincoln, Nebraska

Lincoln and its surroundings host several institutions offering Art History programs and courses:

  1. University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL)

    • Program Information: UNL offers Bachelor’s (BA), Master’s (MA), and PhD programs in Art History. The curriculum features core courses such as AHIS 101, AHIS 102, and a capstone experience (AHIS 400). UNL also provides minors in Art History with options for an 18-credit (Plan A) or a 12-credit (Plan B) curriculum.
    • Address & Neighborhood: Located on the southeast edge of Lincoln’s central district, UNL’s main campus is accessible and steeped in academic tradition.
    • Learn More: UNL School of Art, Art History & Design

  2. Nebraska Wesleyan University

    • Program Information: As a liberal arts institution located in Lincoln, Nebraska Wesleyan University offers courses in the liberal arts curriculum that include art historical studies. Although specific Art History program pages are not always separately listed, prospective students may explore interdisciplinary arts courses that are integral to a well-rounded education in Art History.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 1600 Sheridan Blvd, Lincoln, NE 68503 – situated in a vibrant area of North Lincoln.
    • Learn More: Nebraska Wesleyan University

  3. University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO)

    • Program Information: UNO provides a BA in Art History with two concentrations: Academic Art History (geared toward graduate preparation) and Arts Management (focusing on career-specific skills). The program includes core courses like ART 2050 (Survey of Western Art History I) and ART 2060 (Survey of Western Art History II), as well as an internship course (ART 4530) for students pursuing Arts Management.
    • Location & Distance: Located in Omaha, Nebraska, UNO is approximately 60 miles from Lincoln. It is positioned in the Midtown neighborhood of Omaha.
    • Learn More: University of Nebraska Omaha – Art History Catalog

Art History Career Opportunities in Lincoln, Nebraska

Lincoln offers a range of opportunities for graduates looking to apply their Art History expertise:

  • Sheldon Museum of Art

    • Overview: The Sheldon Museum of Art, located within the University of Nebraska–Lincoln campus in the University District, hosts exhibitions, educational programs, and research opportunities ideal for art historians.
    • Learn More: Sheldon Museum of Art

  • Lancaster County Historical Society Museum

    • Overview: Situated in downtown Lincoln, this museum offers insights into the region’s history and cultural heritage, providing employment opportunities in curation and museum management.
    • Learn More: Lancaster County Historical Society Museum

For additional career outlook information for art historians and related professions, please review the BLS job outlook page.

Prerequisites for Art History Programs

Applicants to Art History programs typically must meet basic education requirements, which generally include:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent.
  • A minimum GPA of 2.0 for programs at institutions like UNL.
  • For some programs, no standardized test scores are required (as seen with UNO).
  • While portfolios are not usually a prerequisite for Art History, some schools may ask for supplemental materials if there is an interdisciplinary focus, especially in courses related to arts management.

Art History Degree Requirements in Nebraska

The requirements for earning an Art History Degree in Nebraska encompass both general academic and specialized art history components:

  • Undergraduate Coursework:

    • Core courses at UNL, such as AHIS 101, AHIS 102, and AHIS 400 (capstone).
    • Courses at UNO like ART 2050 and ART 2060, with an internship course (ART 4530) for those pursuing Arts Management.
    • Options for a minor in Art History through structured credit plans.

  • Graduate and Professional Requirements:

    • Advanced degrees (MA, PhD) are available, including interdisciplinary collaborations such as those with the Sheldon Museum of Art.
    • Accreditation is maintained through the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) for both UNL and UNO. Verification can be done via the HLC Website.

  • State and Regulatory Bodies:

  • Federal Oversight:

  • Additional Resources and Professional Organizations:

Get Started Today

Embarking on an Art History Degree in Lincoln, Nebraska is a gateway to a career immersed in the study and preservation of visual culture. With local and nearby educational options, robust support from regulatory bodies, and vibrant career opportunities in cultural institutions, now is the time to explore your educational and professional future. Prospective students are encouraged to reach out to the admissions offices at these institutions to learn more and take the next step toward a rewarding career in art history.