Art History Programs in Knoxville, Tennessee

Pursuing an Art History Degree in Knoxville, Tennessee

An Art History Degree offers a comprehensive study of art’s evolution, cultural contexts, and critical inquiry. Prospective students can choose from various education paths—ranging from Bachelor of Arts (BA) programs to minors in Art History. Whether you are interested in traditional academic coursework, internships, or study abroad opportunities, pursuing an Art History Degree in Knoxville provides a strong foundation for a career in museum curation, art criticism, or academia. For further career insights, view the job outlook for art historians on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.

About Knoxville

Knoxville, Tennessee is a dynamic city known for its rich history and flourishing cultural scene. The city boasts several museums, galleries, and art institutions that celebrate both local heritage and international art trends. For city-wide updates and resources, visit the official Knoxville city website. Local landmarks include the Knoxville Museum of Art and various cultural festivals that enhance the educational and artistic experience.

Art History Programs in Knoxville, Tennessee

Knoxville offers several options for those interested in pursuing Art History programs. Below are three schools providing courses and degree programs in this field:

  • University of Tennessee – Knoxville
    Address: 100 Volunteer Blvd, Knoxville, TN 37996 (University District)
    Program Details: Offers a BA in Art History and a Minor in Art History. The curriculum includes core courses such as ARTH 451: Art of Italy, 1250–1450; ARTH 452: Art of Italy, 1450–1575; ARTH 470: African American Art; and ARTH 483: History of Museums and Collections. Internships are mandatory to gain professional experience, and study abroad opportunities are encouraged.
    Learn More: Visit the University of Tennessee – Art Department.

  • Knoxville College
    Address: 1303 West Magnolia Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37917 (Downtown Knoxville)
    Program Details: Knoxville College integrates liberal arts with art courses, encouraging students to appreciate art history within a broader cultural and intellectual context. Although primarily a liberal arts institution, it offers courses that provide foundational knowledge in art history.
    Learn More: Visit the Knoxville College official website.

  • Pellissippi State Community College
    Address: 2307 Middlebrook Pike, Knoxville, TN 37914 (East Knoxville)
    Program Details: While primarily known for its associate degree programs, Pellissippi offers courses in the visual arts and humanities that can serve as a stepping stone for students aiming to transfer into four-year Art History programs.
    Learn More: Visit the Pellissippi State Community College website.

Art History Career Opportunities in Knoxville, Tennessee

Knoxville’s cultural institutions provide many opportunities for graduates in art history. Key institutions include:

  • Knoxville Museum of Art
    Address: 1050 World’s Fair Park, Knoxville, TN 37916 (Downtown Knoxville)
    Overview: The museum offers exhibitions, lectures, and internship programs designed to enhance practical experience for art history students.
    Learn More: Visit the Knoxville Museum of Art official website.

  • Tennessee State Museum
    Address: 1000 Capitol Ave, Nashville, TN (Approximately 180 miles from Knoxville)
    Overview: While located outside Knoxville, the Tennessee State Museum is a top employer for art historians interested in historical research and museum curation. It offers extensive collections and educational programs.
    Learn More: Visit the Tennessee State Museum official website.

  • Knoxville Arts & Culture Alliance
    Address: Located in the downtown cultural district, Knoxville Arts & Culture Alliance supports local arts initiatives and professional networking among art professionals.
    Learn More: Visit the Knoxville Arts & Culture Alliance website.

Prerequisites for Art History Programs

Prospective students should be prepared with the following prerequisites:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent.
  • A minimum GPA of 3.0, although specific requirements vary by institution.
  • Standardized test scores, such as an SAT average of 1250 and an ACT average of 28 for programs like the BA at the University of Tennessee – Knoxville.
  • A portfolio is typically not required for BA programs but is necessary for Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) studies.

Art History Degree Requirements in Tennessee

In Knoxville and across Tennessee, Art History degree requirements include a blend of core coursework, internships, and experiential learning opportunities. Specific details include:

  • Types of Degrees Available:

    • Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art History, focusing on global art history, cultural contexts, and interdisciplinary studies.
    • Minor in Art History, designed for non-art majors.
    • Specializations such as African American Art, 20th-Century American Art, and Transatlantic Modernism.

  • Curriculum Requirements:

    • Core Courses: Examples include ARTH 451, ARTH 452, ARTH 470, and ARTH 483.
    • Mandatory internships to provide professional experience.
    • Study Abroad programs available through partnerships like UT Programs Abroad.

  • Accreditation and Quality Assurance:

    • Programs are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
    • Prospective students should verify accreditation status on NASAD’s official list.

  • Supporting Regulatory Bodies:

    • Knoxville City Education Department oversees K-12 education and fosters post-secondary partnerships. Visit Website | Phone: (865) 594-1800
    • Knox County Schools manages county-wide educational initiatives. Visit Website | Phone: (865) 594-1800
    • Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) coordinates state policies for higher education. Visit Website | Phone: (615) 741-3606
    • U.S. Department of Education governs federal education policies, including Title IV funding. Visit Website

  • Professional Organizations and Resources:

    • College Art Association (CAA): Supports art history education, conferences, and job listings. Visit Website
    • Knoxville Museums and Cultural Institutions: Such as the Knoxville Museum of Art and the Knoxville Arts & Culture Alliance which offer exhibitions, lectures, and internships.
    • State-Level Support: The Tennessee Arts Commission (Visit Website) funds arts education and initiatives, while the Knox County Public Library (Visit Website) provides workshops and art history resources.

Get Started Today

Embarking on an Art History Degree in Knoxville, Tennessee is a promising step towards a fulfilling career in the arts. With robust academic programs, diverse cultural institutions, and a supportive community of educators, now is the time to take your passion for art to the next stage. To begin the journey, consider contacting one of the local schools to learn more about their application process and program details.