Art History Programs in New York, New York

Pursuing an Art History Degree in New York, New York

Pursuing an Art History degree in New York, New York offers a comprehensive path into the study of visual culture, aesthetics, and artistic movements. An Art History degree typically encompasses a Bachelor of Arts (BA) program with specializations in areas such as Western Art, Latin American Art, African Art, Asian Art, Conservation, and Museology. Students may choose traditional lecture-based courses, seminar discussions, internships, and study abroad programs to enhance their understanding of art history and museum studies.

About New York, New York

New York, New York is a global center for art, culture, and education. With renowned institutions, bustling cultural districts, and countless exhibitions, the city offers endless opportunities for art enthusiasts and future art educators. Visit the New York City Official website for local updates and government resources. Local landmarks include world-class museums and galleries that showcase art from diverse historical and cultural perspectives.

Art History Programs in New York, New York

Below are three key local schools offering Art History programs and courses in New York, New York:

  1. New York University (NYU)

    • Program: BA in Art History; BA in Classics and Art History
    • Address: 70 Washington Square South, New York, NY 10012 (Greenwich Village)
    • Description: NYU’s program emphasizes a rich curriculum that includes study abroad opportunities in seven global cities and a senior honors thesis program requiring an extensive research paper and oral defense. Admission requirements include competitive SAT/ACT scores and a minimum GPA of 3.65 for honors tracks.
    • More Information: NYU Art History Program

  2. Pace University

    • Program: BA in Art History
    • Address: 1 Pace Plaza, New York, NY 10038 (Lower Manhattan)
    • Description: Pace University offers a robust curriculum with core courses in Renaissance, African, and Latin American art, complemented by mandatory internships at renowned local institutions such as the Guggenheim Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
    • More Information: Pace University Art History Program

  3. Columbia University

    • Program: Art History Department (Offered as electives within broader liberal arts programs)
    • Address: 116th Street & Broadway, New York, NY 10027 (Morningside Heights)
    • Description: Although known primarily for its broad range of liberal arts programs, Columbia University provides a strong art history curriculum that encourages interdisciplinary studies and critical analysis.
    • More Information: Columbia University Art History

Art History Career Opportunities in New York, New York

New York is a prime location for careers in art history with numerous museums, galleries, and cultural institutions:

  • The Metropolitan Museum of Art

    • Address: 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028 (Upper East Side)
    • Description: This iconic museum offers a range of internships and research opportunities for art history students. Employment opportunities and additional information are available on its website.
    • Website: The Metropolitan Museum of Art

  • Guggenheim Museum

    • Address: 1071 5th Ave, New York, NY 10128 (Upper East Side)
    • Description: Known for its innovative exhibitions and architecture, the Guggenheim Museum is a hub for professionals in art conservation and museum studies.
    • Website: Guggenheim Museum

  • Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

    • Address: 11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019 (Midtown Manhattan)
    • Description: MoMA features modern and contemporary art collections and offers various employment and internship opportunities for emerging art historians.
    • Website: MoMA

For further insight into career prospects, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Job Outlook for Curators.

Prerequisites for Art History Programs

Prospective students typically need a high school diploma with competitive SAT/ACT scores. Admission requirements may include a minimum GPA of 3.0 for most undergraduate programs, although honors programs (e.g., NYU) may require a GPA of 3.65. A portfolio is generally not required for BA programs, but strong academic performance and interest in art preservation and analysis are key.

Art History Degree Requirements in New York State

Earning an Art History degree in New York State involves a multi-faceted curriculum:

  • Core Courses: Students study art history surveys covering movements such as Renaissance, African, and Latin American art.
  • Internships: Programs, such as those at Pace University, often require students to complete internships at institutions like The Metropolitan Museum of Art or the Guggenheim Museum.
  • Study Abroad: Opportunities are available at institutions like NYU, which offer programs in numerous global cities including Berlin, Florence, and Paris.
  • Accreditation: Programs are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Verification can be found at NASAD.

Art History Degree Requirements and Resources for New York, New York

  • Official City Educational Regulatory Bodies

    • New York City Department of Education oversees public education, including arts programs. Visit NYC DOE or call (718) 935-3000.

  • Official County Educational Regulatory Bodies

    • New York County (Manhattan) Higher Education Commission coordinates higher education initiatives in Manhattan. (Contact via NYC DOE: (718) 935-3000.)

  • Official State Educational Regulatory Bodies

    • New York State Education Department (NYSED) regulates all educational institutions in New York. More details at NYSED or call (518) 474-3852.

  • Federal Education Oversight Agencies

State-Specific Degree Information

  • Types of Degrees Available:

    • The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art History is prevalent at institutions like Pace University and NYU, offering specializations such as Western, Latin American, African, and Asian Art.
    • NYU features an honors thesis program that requires a detailed 30-40 page research paper and an oral defense.

  • Admission Requirements:

    • Undergraduate programs require SAT/ACT scores and typically a minimum GPA of 3.0 (Pace University) or 3.65 for honors (NYU). Portfolios are not required for BA programs.

  • Curriculum Requirements:

    • Core courses include comprehensive art history surveys, internships (often at top museums), and study abroad opportunities.

  • Professional Organizations:

    • College Art Association (CAA): Promotes art history education and professional development. More at CAA.
    • Art Dealers Association of America (ADAA): Supports local galleries and art professionals in NYC. Learn more at ADAA.
    • Lower Manhattan Cultural Council (LMCC): Provides funding for arts initiatives. Visit LMCC.

  • Educational Resources:

    • The Metropolitan Museum of Art offers internships and research opportunities, with free admission for students presenting a valid ID.

  • Additional Resources:

    • New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA): Provides funding for arts education and career development. See NYSCA.
    • New York City Cultural Affairs: Offers grants and resources for arts professionals. Visit NYC Cultural Affairs.
    • Manhattan Arts Alliance: Supports local artists and cultural organizations. More at Manhattan Arts Alliance.

Get Started Today

The pathway to an Art History degree in New York, New York is filled with dynamic opportunities and educational resources. With prestigious programs, comprehensive curricula, and direct links to world-class museums and professional organizations, aspiring art historians have the support and information they need. Prospective students are encouraged to contact their chosen schools through the available forms and begin their journey into art education and the dynamic career opportunities it offers.