Art History Programs in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Pursuing an Art History Degree in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

An Art History degree offers a detailed exploration of artistic traditions, visual culture, and museum studies. In Sioux Falls, South Dakota, prospective students can engage with diverse educational paths through dedicated courses or integrated curriculum options. Art History programs typically include foundational courses such as Art History I (Prehistory–1945) and Art History II (20th Century–Present), complemented by studio courses in Drawing, Design, and Media. These programs prepare students for careers in museums, galleries, and cultural institutions while emphasizing critical thinking and research skills. For further perspective on employment prospects, refer to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook page.

About Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls is the largest city in South Dakota and a hub for cultural and educational innovation. With multiple arts initiatives, historic landmarks, and museums, the community supports vibrant art education and local cultural engagement. For more information about Sioux Falls, visit the official Sioux Falls website.

Art History Programs in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Although Sioux Falls does not offer a dedicated Art History degree, there are exceptional local and nearby institutions where students can pursue art education with integrated art history coursework:

  1. University of Sioux Falls (USF)

    • Program: BA in Art with concentrations in Fine Arts, Graphic Design, and Pre-art Therapy
    • Key Features: Includes core curriculum components, such as Art History I and II, studio courses, and internship opportunities for the Graphic Design concentration.
    • Address: 1000 E Lincoln Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57103 (Downtown Sioux Falls)
    • Website: University of Sioux Falls

  2. University of South Dakota (USD) – Vermillion Campus

    • Program: BFA in Art featuring specializations like Ceramics, Sculpture, Painting, and Printmaking
    • Key Features: Incorporates studio spaces, exhibitions (notably at the John A. Day Gallery), and comprehensive art coursework.
    • Address: 1300 S Ridge Ave, Vermillion, SD 57069 (Downtown Vermillion)
    • Distance: Approximately 85 miles from Sioux Falls
    • Website: University of South Dakota

  3. Mount Marty College (Additional Option)

    • Program: Offers art courses with opportunities for art historical study within a liberal arts context.
    • Address: 400 E 1st Ave, Yankton, SD 57078 (Downtown Yankton)
    • Distance: Roughly 75 miles from Sioux Falls
    • Website: Mount Marty College

Art History Career Opportunities in Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls is home to several cultural institutions that offer promising career opportunities for Art Historians and other art professionals:

  • Sioux Falls Arts Council

    • Description: An organization that supports local arts initiatives, exhibitions, and community art events. It plays a pivotal role in promoting the arts and facilitating career opportunities within the region.
    • Neighborhood: Located within Downtown Sioux Falls
    • Website: Sioux Falls Arts Council

  • South Dakota State Historical Society

    • Description: A key institution for historical preservation and art curation in South Dakota, offering potential roles such as museum curators and art educators.
    • Website: South Dakota State Historical Society

  • Additional Career Resource:

Prerequisites for Art History Programs

Students interested in pursuing art history or integrated art programs typically must meet certain prerequisites:

  • Submission of a high school transcript and ACT/SAT scores (note that some programs may consider these scores optional).
  • For programs with a graphic design focus, a portfolio review is often required.
  • Adherence to application deadlines, such as the rolling deadlines at the University of Sioux Falls.

These requirements ensure that students are prepared for both theoretical and practical components of their studies.

Art History Degree Requirements in South Dakota

While Sioux Falls does not offer a dedicated Art History major, the integrated art programs available across South Dakota provide rigorous preparation in the field:

  • Core Curriculum: Programs generally include foundational courses such as Art History I (covering Prehistory–1945) and Art History II (focusing on the 20th Century to Present), alongside studio courses in Drawing, Design, and Media.

  • Internship Opportunities: Especially significant in programs with a Graphic Design concentration, internships allow students to gain real-world experience.

  • Regulatory Oversight: Educational quality is maintained through oversight by several bodies:

  • Degrees Offered:

    • Bachelor of Art in Art (University of Sioux Falls) with concentrations that include Fine Arts, Graphic Design, and Pre-art Therapy. The program requires around 29 credits in art courses, inclusive of art history sequence.
    • Bachelor of Fine Arts (University of South Dakota, Vermillion) with specializations in Ceramics, Sculpture, Painting, and Printmaking.

  • Accreditation: Programs are accredited by respected bodies such as the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).

  • Professional Organizations & Certification:

    • College Art Association (CAA) advocates for art education and research: CAA Website
    • American Alliance of Museums (AAM) supports museum professionals: AAM Website
    • Professional development opportunities include Art Therapy Certification (ATR) and continuing education workshops.

  • Career Information:

    • Job Titles: Museum Curator, Art Educator, Graphic Designer.
    • Salary Ranges: Entry-level positions generally pay between $35,000–$50,000, while experienced professionals earn approximately $60,000–$80,000.
    • Top Employers: Notable institutions include the South Dakota State Historical Society and the Sioux Falls Arts Council.
    • Additional Resources: For more details on job prospects, refer to the BLS job outlook.

Get Started Today

Choosing to pursue art education in Sioux Falls, South Dakota is a step toward a fulfilling career that blends academic rigor with creative expression. Prospective students are encouraged to explore their options and contact their chosen institution using the forms provided on each school’s website. Begin your journey into art history by reaching out to a school near you today.