Art History Programs in Reno, Nevada

Pursuing an Art History Degree in Reno, Nevada

A degree in Art History offers a comprehensive study of artistic movements, cultural contexts, and critical analyses of visual works. Individuals can choose from various educational paths, including an Associate of Arts (AA) for foundational studies, or a Bachelor of Arts (BA) concentrating on in-depth exploration from the Medieval period to contemporary art. These programs combine theory with practical insights through courses, museum internships, and specialized seminars.

About Reno

Reno, Nevada, known as “The Biggest Little City in the World,” is celebrated for its rich cultural tapestry and thriving arts scene. The city is home to unique museums and galleries, including the Nevada Museum of Art and the National Automobile Museum. Residents and visitors alike can explore the downtown district and nearby neighborhoods that offer an engaging environment perfectly suited for art enthusiasts. For additional information, please visit the official city website.

Art History Programs in Reno, Nevada

Three notable educational institutions offer Art History programs or related courses for aspiring art historians:

  1. University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) – BA in Art History

    • Address: 550 N Virginia St, Reno, NV 89557 (Downtown Reno)
    • Program Information: The BA program at UNR encompasses 39 credits in Art History, covering topics from Renaissance to Modern and Contemporary art, with opportunities to specialize in areas such as propaganda and decorative arts. Visit the UNR Art History program page for further details.
    • Neighborhood: Downtown Reno

  2. Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC) – AA in Fine Art History

    • Address: 1100 W 12th St, Reno, NV 89503 (Central Reno)
    • Program Information: TMCC’s AA program prepares students with a curriculum that includes core courses such as ART 100 (Visual Foundations), ART 260/261 (Survey of Art History I/II), and ART 209 (Introduction to Gallery Practices). Electives such as ART 270 (Women in Art) and ART 263 (African/Oceanic/Native American Art) enhance the learning experience. More details are available on the TMCC catalog page.
    • Neighborhood: Central Reno

  3. Sierra Nevada College – Art Courses and Related Programs

    • Address: 3535 US-50, Incline Village, NV 89451
    • Program Information: Although Sierra Nevada College is located approximately 40 miles from Reno in Incline Village, it offers art courses that may complement an Art History education. Prospective students interested in a focused Art History degree are encouraged to inquire directly regarding program specifics.
    • Distance: Approximately 40 miles from Reno

Art History Career Opportunities in Reno

Reno offers numerous career opportunities for graduates in Art History. Notable cultural institutions include:

  • Nevada Museum of Art

    • Address: 101 S Virginia St, Reno, NV 89501 (Downtown)
    • Overview: This institution hosts diverse exhibitions and provides internship opportunities for emerging art historians. Visit the Nevada Museum of Art’s official website for more details and current career opportunities.

  • National Automobile Museum

    • Address: 100 Sparks Ave, Reno, NV 89502 (Midtown Reno)
    • Overview: Besides showcasing automotive history, this museum offers positions such as gallery assistants and curators, ideal for those interested in museum management. For employment information, visit the museum’s official website.

  • UNR Art Gallery

    • Location: Located within the University of Nevada, Reno campus in Downtown
    • Overview: The gallery hosts exhibitions and community programs that offer practical experience relevant to art historians. Additional opportunities may be available through UNR’s career services.

Prospective graduates may also review the Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook page for curators to better understand career prospects in the field.

Prerequisites for Art History Programs

Admission requirements vary by program. For the AA program at TMCC, applicants should have a minimum GPA of 2.0 along with placement in ENG 101/102 and MATH 120. The BA program at UNR benefits from established transfer agreements with TMCC, simplifying the transition from an AA degree. It is advisable for prospective students to review each institution’s admissions criteria to ensure they meet all prerequisites.

Art History Degree Requirements in Nevada

In Nevada, degree requirements for an Art History qualification are tailored according to the chosen program:

  • TMCC AA Program:
    • Core Courses: ART 100 (Visual Foundations), ART 260/261 (Survey of Art History I/II), ART 209 (Introduction to Gallery Practices)
    • Electives: Options include ART 270 (Women in Art) and ART 263 (African/Oceanic/Native American Art)
  • UNR BA Program:
    • Credit Requirements: A total of 39 credits in art history that include comprehensive courses on Renaissance, Modern, and Contemporary art, alongside opportunities for specialized study in propaganda, decorative arts, and paleontology illustration
  • Accreditation: Both TMCC and UNR maintain accreditation through the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) and adhere to guidelines set by the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE). Programs may also align with standards recommended by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).

Additional Degree Requirements and Resources for Reno, Washoe County, Nevada

The state provides robust support and detailed criteria for Art History degrees:

  • Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE): Oversees public higher education institutions including UNR and TMCC. For more details, visit the NSHE website or contact them at (702) 889-8426 or nshe@nshe.nevada.edu.
  • State-Level Degree Types:
    • Associate of Arts (AA) in Fine Art History (TMCC): Focuses on enhancing critical analysis, visual literacy, and gallery practices.
    • Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art History (UNR): Encompasses Western art history with in-depth specialization.
  • Professional Organizations: The College Art Association (CAA) offers resources including job listings and career development workshops.
  • Career Insights: Typical roles include museum curator, gallery manager, and arts administrator. Salaries range from $30,000–$45,000 for entry-level positions to $60,000–$80,000 for experienced curators, as reported by BLS.

Get Started Today

The pathway to an Art History degree in Reno, Nevada, is filled with opportunities ranging from foundational courses at TMCC to advanced studies at UNR. With dedicated art institutions, active cultural sites, and professional support from local museums, aspiring art historians can build a rewarding career in the arts. Prospective students are encouraged to reach out to the educational institutions directly using the contact forms on their websites and to take the first step towards a fulfilling academic journey.