Art History Programs in Memphis, Tennessee

Pursuing an Art History Degree in Memphis, Tennessee

An Art History Degree offers a comprehensive exploration of visual culture, emphasizing historical context, critical analysis, and curatorial practices. Prospective students can pursue various educational paths including Bachelor of Arts programs, specializations in museum studies, and integrated cultural studies. This guide provides detailed information on navigating local Art History courses and programs in Memphis, Tennessee.

About Memphis

Memphis is a culturally rich city known for its distinctive musical heritage, culinary traditions, and significant art institutions. With landmarks such as the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art and strong community support for the arts, Memphis offers an inspiring environment for those pursuing an Art History Degree. For more official information about the city, visit the City of Memphis Official Website.

Art History Programs in Memphis, Tennessee

Local educational opportunities in Memphis cater to students interested in deepening their understanding of art history. Below are three schools offering Art History programs or related coursework:

  1. University of Memphis

    • Program: Bachelor of Arts in Art History with a museum studies track
    • Address: 2000 East Parkway, Memphis, TN 38152 (Midtown)
    • Description: The University of Memphis offers a robust curriculum focusing on global art history, curatorial practices, and cultural institution partnerships. Prospective students benefit from opportunities such as internships at leading local museums.
    • Website: University of Memphis

  2. Rhodes College

    • Program: Liberal arts program with strong art history course offerings
    • Address: 2000 North Parkway, Memphis, TN 38111 (Midtown)
    • Description: Rhodes College integrates art historical analysis with a comprehensive liberal arts education. Its curriculum encourages critical thinking and interdisciplinary coursework, preparing students for various art-related careers.
    • Website: Rhodes College

  3. Christian Brothers University

    • Program: Undergraduate courses in arts and humanities, including art history
    • Address: 2010 Austin Peay Hwy, Memphis, TN 38133 (Memphis)
    • Description: Known for its commitment to academic excellence, Christian Brothers University offers courses that explore the evolution of art across cultures. Students gain access to hands-on learning experiences and community cultural projects.
    • Website: Christian Brothers University

Art History Career Opportunities in Memphis

Memphis is home to several esteemed cultural institutions providing rewarding career opportunities for Art History graduates:

  • Memphis Brooks Museum of Art

    • Description: This museum supports a range of exhibitions, educational programs, and internship opportunities that emphasize both historical and contemporary art practices.
    • Location: Midtown, Memphis
    • Website: Memphis Brooks Museum of Art

  • Dixon Gallery and Gardens

    • Description: Located just a short drive from central Memphis, this institution features a collection of fine art and beautifully landscaped gardens, offering roles in curation and exhibit management.
    • Location: Approximately 10 miles from downtown Memphis
    • Website: Dixon Gallery and Gardens

  • Memphis Art Museum Association

    • Description: Focused on supporting local arts education, this organization collaborates with museums and galleries in the region to promote art initiatives and career development.
    • Location: Central Memphis
    • Website: Memphis Art Museum Association

Additional career insights, including employment prospects for art historians, can be found on the Bureau of Labor Statistics Art Historian Job Outlook page.

Prerequisites for Art History Programs

Applicants aiming to enroll in Art History programs typically need:

  • A high school diploma with coursework in art, humanities, or related areas
  • A minimum GPA requirement, commonly around 3.0
  • Standardized test scores, such as an average SAT score of 1080 or ACT score of 21
  • In some cases, portfolio submissions or evidence of prior artistic experience may strengthen an application

Art History Degree Requirements in Tennessee

Earning an Art History Degree in Tennessee involves fulfilling several academic and institutional criteria:

  • Educational Pathways:

    • Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art History at the University of Memphis is a prominent option.
    • Degree tracks often include specializations like global art history and museum studies, emphasizing cultural institution partnerships and curatorial practices.

  • Admission Requirements:

    • Standardized Tests: Average SAT score of 1080 or ACT score of 21
    • GPA: A minimum of 3.0
    • Prerequisites: Completion of high school art or humanities courses with rolling application deadlines for fall, spring, and summer terms

  • Curriculum Components:

    • Core courses cover art history surveys spanning ancient to modern periods, alongside critical thinking and research methodology.
    • Internships are typically required for museum and curatorial tracks, with study abroad opportunities extending learning beyond local boundaries.

  • Regulatory and Accreditation Bodies:

    • Local: Memphis City Schools (Memphis City Schools) and Shelby County Board of Education
    • State: Tennessee Higher Education Commission (Tennessee Higher Education Commission)
    • Federal: U.S. Department of Education and National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
    • Accreditation is overseen by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), and prospective students should verify program status via official NASAD directories.

  • Professional Organizations and Career Resources:

    • College Art Association (CAA) provides networking and career resources (College Art Association).
    • City-specific organizations like the Memphis Art Museum Association and resources from the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art enhance professional development.

Get Started Today

Embarking on an Art History Degree in Memphis means joining a community where education and cultural heritage are inextricably linked. With a variety of programs, career opportunities at local museums and galleries, and robust academic support from state and federal bodies, prospective students are encouraged to take the next step. Contact a school today through the provided forms on their websites to begin your journey in art history.