Art History Programs in New Hampshire

Getting an Art History Degree in New Hampshire

An Art History Degree offers extensive insight into the evolution, context, and impact of art across cultures and eras. This guide explains the various education paths, including bachelor’s degrees, available for individuals interested in pursuing such a career. Prospective students can choose from interdisciplinary programs that combine theoretical coursework, practical museum experiences, and research projects.

Why Study Art History in New Hampshire

New Hampshire offers a unique setting for art history education, framed by a rich cultural backdrop and an active arts community. For more information about the state, visit the official New Hampshire website. The local art scene thrives with dynamic museum programs and community galleries, fostering artistic and historical inquiry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for art historians is around $63,910 as of 2024, with steady projected job growth. These favorable statistics, combined with excellent educational institutions, make New Hampshire an attractive destination for those pursuing an Art History Degree.

Prerequisites for Art History Programs

Admission into Art History programs typically requires completion of secondary education or equivalent credentials. For instance, Dartmouth College expects high academic performance with an average SAT score of 1540 and ACT score of 34, along with a competitive application submitted by January 1 for Regular Decision. Meanwhile, the University of New Hampshire (UNH) requires a minimum GPA of 2.0 in major coursework and operates a test-optional policy since 2020. Some programs may also request entrance exams or portfolio submissions to assess the applicant’s background in art and humanities.

Typical Program Curriculum

Art History curricula generally cover key areas such as art theory, comparative analyses, and visual culture studies. Core courses might include introductory topics like ARTH 480 (Introduction to Art History) and advanced seminars such as ARTH 799. Students can expect interdisciplinary studies that may integrate studio art practices, museum studies, and digital humanities. Most bachelor’s programs are designed to be completed within four years, offering specializations in Renaissance art, contemporary art theory, feminist art, architectural history, and more.

Art History Programs in New Hampshire

Several local institutions have earned a reputation for their strong Art History programs:

• Dartmouth College (Hanover, NH)

  • Degree Offered: BA in Art History with a focus on global perspectives and interdisciplinary studies.
  • Program Highlights: Students benefit from core courses on art history theory, studio art integration, and capstone projects. Unique access to the Hood Museum of Art’s extensive collection enriches the academic experience. Admission statistics include an acceptance rate of 10% and average standardized test scores of SAT 1540 or ACT 34.
  • Additional Info: Learn more about Dartmouth’s offerings on their official website and explore the Hood Museum of Art.

• University of New Hampshire (Durham, NH)

  • Degree Offered: BA in Art History with tracks emphasizing both Western and non-Western traditions.
  • Program Highlights: The curriculum requires completion of 10 courses (40 credits), including ARTH 480 and ARTH 799. Internships with local institutions like the Currier Museum of Art further complement classroom learning. The program operates with an acceptance rate of 87% and a minimum major GPA requirement of 2.0.
  • Additional Info: Further details are available through the official University of New Hampshire website.

• Plymouth State University (Plymouth, NH)

  • Degree Offered: BA in Art History with a strong emphasis on experiential learning.
  • Program Highlights: Students engage in community-based projects, partnering with regional galleries and museums. With an acceptance rate of 78% and rolling application deadlines, the program offers flexibility without compromising on academic quality.
  • Additional Info: Visit the Plymouth State University website for more detailed program information.

Art History Career Opportunities in New Hampshire

Graduates with an Art History Degree in New Hampshire have access to a variety of career opportunities in museums, galleries, and cultural institutions. Prominent establishments in the state include:

• Hood Museum of Art (Hanover, NH)

  • Located at Dartmouth College, the museum features rotating exhibitions and public programs. Explore potential employment and internship opportunities via their official website.

• Currier Museum of Art (Manchester, NH)

  • Known for its diverse exhibitions and community outreach, the Currier Museum offers numerous roles for art history professionals. Interested candidates should review employment opportunities on the museum’s official site.

These institutions, along with smaller galleries across the state, provide platforms for careers in curation, education, and art conservation. For updated labor market information, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Professional Organizations and Resources

Art History professionals in New Hampshire have access to a broad network of resources and organizations:

• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

  • Ensures academic quality and standards through regional accreditation. More information is available on the NECHE website.

• New Hampshire Department of Education

  • Oversees K-12 and higher education standards in the state. Visit their official website for program approvals and guidelines.

• New Hampshire Higher Education Commission

  • Coordinates state policies for higher education. Information can be found by searching their details on the New Hampshire government website.

• College Art Association (CAA)

  • Advocates for art history education and offers annual conferences, job listings, and scholarly publications. More details are available on the CAA website.

• American Alliance of Museums (AAM)

  • Promotes museum standards and career advancement opportunities. Additional resources can be found on the AAM website.

• New Hampshire State Council on the Arts

  • Provides funding and grants for arts initiatives across the state. Visit the Council’s website for more information.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of Art History programs in New Hampshire varies by institution. While tuition fees differ between schools, students can expect a wide range in expenses. Financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and state-specific funding, are available. Prospective students are encouraged to explore financial assistance opportunities through the New Hampshire Department of Education and the New Hampshire State Council on the Arts. Additionally, individual institutions such as Dartmouth College, UNH, and Plymouth State University offer tailored scholarship programs and financial aid packages to help manage tuition costs.

Career Advancement Opportunities

Graduates with an Art History Degree in New Hampshire can pursue various career paths such as curatorship, art conservation, museum education, and arts administration. Further certifications, internships, and advanced degrees can enhance career prospects. Organizations like UNH Career Services provide workshops, alumni mentorship, and job fairs to support professional growth. Additionally, pursuing certifications through professional bodies like the College Art Association or engaging with state-specific networks can be vital for career advancement.

Get Started Today

This comprehensive guide demonstrates that New Hampshire offers a robust framework for pursuing an Art History Degree. With esteemed institutions, rich cultural opportunities, and extensive career resources, the state provides an ideal environment for aspiring art historians. Interested individuals are encouraged to contact a school today through their provided inquiry forms and take the next exciting step toward a rewarding art history career.