Art History Programs in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Pursuing an Art History Degree in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Earning an Art History Degree opens pathways in museum curation, art education, research, and other creative fields. An Art History degree typically covers various educational paths, including Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Master of Arts (MA), and Associate in Fine Arts (AFA) programs. These programs combine rigorous study of art theory, history, and critical analysis with practical skills applicable to careers in museums, galleries, and cultural institutions. For prospective art educators and creative professionals, understanding the degree structure, admission requirements, and available tracks is essential to making an informed decision.

About Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City is a dynamic metropolitan area with a rich cultural heritage and flourishing art scene. The city is home to several landmark cultural institutions and museums that serve as both educational resources and community hubs. For more information, visit the official Oklahoma City website. With a mix of historic districts and modern developments, Oklahoma City offers an inspiring environment for students pursuing Art History programs.

Art History Programs in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

While Oklahoma City may not host an abundance of dedicated Art History programs, several nearby institutions provide robust options:

  1. Rose State College – AFA in Art

    • Address: 1301 S Santa Fe Ave, Midwest City, OK 73110
    • Neighborhood: Midwest City
    • Description: Offering an Associate in Fine Arts degree, Rose State College features a transfer-oriented curriculum that includes studio courses and art history electives. Its program is designed for students aiming to transition to bachelor’s programs in art education and cultural studies.
    • Website: https://www.rose.edu

  2. University of Oklahoma – MA in Art History

    • Address: 660 Parrington Oval, Norman, OK 73019
    • Distance: Approximately 20 miles from Oklahoma City
    • Neighborhood: Norman (a vibrant college town with a rich heritage)
    • Description: The University of Oklahoma offers a thesis-based Master of Arts in Art History. The program emphasizes critical methodologies, theoretical frameworks, and language proficiency in French, German, or alternative languages.
    • Website: https://www.ou.edu/

  3. University of Central Oklahoma – Art History Courses

    • Address: 1101 N Robinson, Edmond, OK 73013
    • Distance: Approximately 15 miles from downtown Oklahoma City
    • Neighborhood: Edmond
    • Description: Although primarily known for its broader liberal arts programs, the University of Central Oklahoma provides comprehensive courses in Art History that prepare students for both advanced studies and practical careers in art education and cultural management.
    • Website: https://www.uco.edu/

Art History Career Opportunities in Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City boasts several cultural institutions that serve as promising employers for Art History graduates:

  • Oklahoma City Museum of Art
    • Address: 900 Norton Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73102
    • Neighborhood: Downtown Oklahoma City
    • Description: The museum offers exhibitions, educational workshops, and specialized programs for aspiring museum curators and art educators. Explore career opportunities and more details on their official website.
  • Oklahoma County Historical Society Museum
    • Address: [Location details available on inquiry]
    • Description: Focused on preserving local heritage, this institution provides opportunities in archival research, exhibit design, and cultural programming. Find more information on their official website.
  • Oklahoma City Arts Commission
    • Description: The commission supports public art initiatives and cultural projects throughout the city, offering potential roles in community engagement and art program management. Additional details can be found on the city’s official site.

For a glimpse into the job outlook for art historians and related professions, please refer to the BLS job outlook page for historians.

Prerequisites for Art History Programs

Prospective students should be aware of the common prerequisites for enrolling in an Art History program:

  • Undergraduate Requirements: A high school diploma or equivalent is needed for AFA programs.
  • MA in Art History Specifics: Applicants typically need 18 or more undergraduate art history credits or demonstrate special proficiency, along with GRE scores. A portfolio review is often part of the application process, especially for studio-based components.
  • General Admissions: A minimum GPA requirement is customary, along with strong recommendations and academic records.

Art History Degree Requirements in Oklahoma

Oklahoma offers a comprehensive framework for Art History education through various degree paths:

Types of Degrees Offered

  • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA): Studio-focused programs that integrate theoretical and practical learning.
  • Master of Arts (MA): Research-intensive programs such as the MA in Art History at the University of Oklahoma. Students complete core courses like Methodologies and Theories in Art History (3 credits) and fulfill a thesis requirement (4 credits) along with language proficiency in French, German, or an approved alternative.
  • Associate in Fine Arts (AFA): Programs like that at Rose State College emphasize transfer readiness, studio courses (drawing, painting, ceramics), and art history electives.

Accreditation and Regulatory Bodies

  • National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD): Accredits leading art programs, including those at the University of Oklahoma.
  • Higher Learning Commission (HLC): Provides regional accreditation for Oklahoma institutions.

Educational Regulatory Agencies and Resources

  • Oklahoma City Public Schools
  • Oklahoma County Superintendent of Schools
  • Oklahoma State Department of Education
  • Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education
  • U.S. Department of Education
  • National Center for Education Statistics

Professional Organizations

  • College Art Association (CAA): Advocates for comprehensive art history education. Visit their website.
  • American Alliance of Museums (AAM): Supports museum professionals. Visit their website.
  • Oklahoma City Museum of Art: In addition to exhibitions, the institution offers lectures and workshops related to art history. Visit their website.
  • Oklahoma County Historical Society: Preserves local history and cultural heritage. Visit their website.

State-Level and Local Resources

  • Oklahoma Arts Council: Funds arts education and cultural initiatives. Visit their website.
  • Oklahoma City Arts Commission: Supports public art and cultural programming through the city government. Visit their website.

Get Started Today

Exploring an Art History Degree in Oklahoma City is an opportunity to blend academic study with hands-on cultural experience. Whether you are interested in curatorial practice, art education, or research, the range of local schools and museums provides a solid foundation for your creative career. Evaluate your program options, review admission prerequisites, and plan your path forward. Contact a school today through the provided forms to take the next step toward a fulfilling career in the art world.