Art History Programs in Arlington, Texas

Pursuing an Art History Degree in Arlington, Texas

Earning an Art History Degree opens a pathway to understanding visual culture, heritage, and critical analysis while providing a foundation for careers in museums, galleries, and academia. An Art History Degree can be pursued at both undergraduate and graduate levels, offering students varied education paths—from Bachelor of Arts programs emphasizing broad historical surveys and theory to specialized Master of Arts tracks that include digital art history and museum studies. In Arlington, Texas, prospective students have access to comprehensive Art History programs, engaging courses, and invaluable opportunities to connect with local museums and cultural institutions.

About Arlington, Texas

Arlington, Texas is a dynamic community located in Tarrant County with strong support for arts and education. The city’s official website, Arlington, TX, provides further details about local government services and cultural initiatives. Home to the Arlington Museum of Art and several city-funded cultural programs, Arlington offers a creative landscape enriched by diverse landmarks and engaging arts experiences.

Art History Programs in Arlington, Texas

Local schools and nearby institutions offer reputable Art History programs and courses:

  1. University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) – Art History Program

    • Address: 701 E Matador Blvd, Arlington, TX 76010 (Located centrally in Arlington)
    • Program Details: UTA offers both Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees in Art History. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary research, digital humanities, and museum studies. For more information, visit the UTA Art History Program.

  2. Tarrant County College District (TCCD) – Art & Design Programs

    • Address: 2952 Pioneer Parkway, Arlington, TX 76015 (Situated within Arlington)
    • Program Details: TCCD provides affordable Art & Design programs that include art history courses, offering a blend of theoretical and practical learning experiences. Additional information can be found at the TCCD Art & Design Programs.

  3. Southern Methodist University (SMU) – Art History Department

    • Address: 8400 Bishop Blvd, Dallas, TX 75205, University Park (Approximately 20 miles from Arlington)
    • Program Details: SMU offers a Master of Arts in Art History with opportunities for specialization. The program is housed within a vibrant academic environment in Dallas. Visit the SMU Art History Department for program details.

Art History Career Opportunities in Arlington, Texas

Arlington’s thriving cultural scene provides numerous career opportunities in art history and related fields:

  • Arlington Museum of Art (AMA)

    • Address: 1500 West Main Street, Arlington, TX 76011 (Located in Downtown Arlington)
    • Details: AMA hosts exhibitions, educational programs, and special events, making it an ideal venue for emerging art historians and museum professionals. More details are available on the Arlington Museum of Art website.

  • City of Arlington Cultural Arts Program

    • Website: Arlington Cultural Arts Program
    • Details: This city initiative supports local arts projects and partnerships with educational institutions, enhancing opportunities for internships and employment in arts education.

  • Tarrant County Arts Council

    • Website: Tarrant County Arts Council
    • Details: Operating at the county level, this organization funds local arts projects and fosters networking opportunities among arts professionals.

For insights into job prospects for art historians and related professions, consult the Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook page.

Prerequisites for Art History Programs

Prospective students should be prepared to meet several prerequisites:

  • General Education Requirements: A high school diploma or equivalent is mandatory.
  • Undergraduate Admissions:
    • Minimum SAT score of 1120 or ACT score of 22 (specific to UTA).
    • A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, although exact requirements may vary across institutions.
  • Graduate Admissions:
    • Submission of GRE scores is common for competitive programs.
    • A portfolio of academic writing or research may be required for Master’s programs.

Art History Degree Requirements in Texas

Earning an Art History degree in Texas encompasses a comprehensive curriculum, rigorous admissions criteria, and coordination with several regulatory and professional bodies:

Degree Types and Curriculum

  • Bachelor of Arts in Art History:
    • Offered by institutions such as UTA, this degree covers core art history surveys, theory, and methodology.
  • Master of Arts in Art History:
    • Available at institutions like UTA and SMU, with specializations in Modern Art, Art of the Americas, and Digital Art History.
  • Curriculum Requirements:
    • Core courses include art history surveys, critical theory, and research methodologies.
    • Specializations may require electives in areas like Art Conservation or Museum Studies, and internships are often integral to Museum Studies tracks.
    • A thesis is mandatory for Master’s programs.

Regulatory and Supportive Bodies

  • Local and County Agencies:

    • Arlington Independent School District (AISD): Oversees K-12 public education and arts programs. AISD Website | Contact: (682) 867-1111
    • City of Arlington’s Cultural Arts Program: Supports local arts initiatives. Arlington Cultural Arts Program
    • Tarrant County College District (TCCD): Manages community college education in Tarrant County. TCCD Website | Contact: (817) 515-8223

  • State and Federal Regulatory Bodies:

    • Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB): Oversees higher education standards in Texas. THECB Website | Contact: (512) 427-6100
    • Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA): Promotes statewide arts education. TCA Website
    • U.S. Department of Education (ED): Manages federal education policies, including Title IV funding. ED Website and ED Arts Programs
    • National Endowment for the Arts (NEA): Provides grants and funding for arts education. NEA Website

Accreditation and Professional Organizations

  • Accreditation:
  • Professional Organizations:
    • College Art Association (CAA): Offers conference access, job listings, and publication opportunities. CAA Website
    • American Alliance of Museums (AAM): Provides certifications and professional resources. AAM Website
    • Arlington Museum of Art (AMA): Engages art history students through exhibitions and educational programs. AMA Website
    • Tarrant County Arts Council: Enhances networking opportunities and funds local arts projects. Tarrant County Arts Council

State-Specific Degree Information and Resources

  • Types of Degrees Available:
    • Bachelor of Arts in Art History: Offered at UTA.
    • Master of Arts in Art History: Offered at UTA and SMU, with specializations in Modern Art, Art of the Americas, and Digital Art History.
  • Admission Requirements:
    • Bachelor’s Programs: Minimum SAT of 1120 and ACT of 22 (UTA), with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
    • Master’s Programs: Requirement of GRE scores and an academic portfolio.
  • Curriculum and Specializations:
    • Core courses include art history surveys, theory, and research methods.
    • Electives in Art Conservation or Museum Studies, along with mandatory internships and thesis projects, provide hands-on experience.
  • Additional Resources:

Salary ranges for art historians typically vary from $40,000 to $55,000 for entry-level positions, with experienced professionals earning between $60,000 and $80,000. Top employers in Texas include the Dallas Museum of Art, the Kimbell Art Museum (Fort Worth), and the UTA Art Gallery.

Get Started Today

Individuals interested in pursuing an Art History Degree in Arlington, Texas, are encouraged to explore the diverse educational opportunities available through local institutions and nearby universities. Whether you are beginning your academic journey or pursuing advanced studies, contact your chosen school today through the inquiry forms provided on their official pages to take the first step toward a rewarding career in art history.