Art History Programs in Chesapeake, Virginia

Pursuing an Art History Degree in Chesapeake, Virginia

An Art History Degree explores the evolution of art and cultural movements while developing critical research and analytical skills. Prospective students can choose from a range of education paths, including undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs. This guide covers art history programs, courses, and career opportunities in Chesapeake, Virginia, and discusses various options available to students interested in the field.

About Chesapeake, Virginia

Chesapeake, Virginia, is an independent city known for its rich heritage and diverse cultural scene. The city’s official website, the City of Chesapeake, offers additional insight into local events and civic resources. Art enthusiasts will appreciate nearby cultural institutions, local lectures at the Chesapeake Public Library, and community exhibits at the Chesapeake Historical Museum.

Art History Programs in Chesapeake, Virginia

Chesapeake does not host dedicated Art History programs within city limits. However, several reputable schools in the region offer comprehensive Art History courses and degree programs. Below are the nearest options:

  1. Old Dominion University (ODU) – Norfolk, VA

    • Address & Neighborhood: 600 University Ave, Norfolk, VA 23529; located in the heart of Norfolk’s academic district.
    • Distance: Approximately 20 miles from Chesapeake.
    • Programs Offered: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Art History, featuring courses from Ancient to Contemporary Art, with an emphasis on research and critical theory. Unique program features include internships at the Chrysler Museum of Art.
    • More Information: ODU Art History Program

  2. Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) – Richmond, VA

    • Address & Neighborhood: 1700 Forbes Blvd, Richmond, VA 23220; situated in Richmond’s cultural corridor near several art galleries and museums.
    • Distance: Approximately 100 miles from Chesapeake.
    • Programs Offered: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Master of Arts (M.A.) in Art History with specializations in global art and museum studies. The program is renowned for its strong museum partnerships and portfolio-based admission for studio-related courses.
    • More Information: VCU Art History Program

  3. University of Virginia (UVA) – Charlottesville, VA

    • Address & Neighborhood: Charlottesville, VA 22904; located in a historic university town with a vibrant academic community.
    • Distance: Approximately 120 miles from Chesapeake.
    • Programs Offered: Offers a comprehensive array of degrees – Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Master of Arts (M.A.), and Ph.D. in Art History. The curriculum includes diverse courses covering modern and contemporary art, supported by initiatives like the MESDA Summer Institute.
    • More Information: UVA School of Arts

Art History Career Opportunities in Chesapeake, Virginia

Chesapeake and its surrounding regions provide access to numerous cultural institutions and career opportunities for art historians. Key local and regional organizations include:

  • Chesapeake Public Library: Often hosts art history lectures and workshops, providing a community space for continuing education.
  • Chesapeake Historical Museum: Offers local art history exhibits and serves as a hub for cultural heritage in the area.
  • Chesapeake Arts Alliance: Promotes local arts initiatives and offers networking opportunities with regional art professionals.
  • Hampton Roads Art History Network: Connects professionals throughout the region, aiding in career development and industry insights.

In addition to these, major employers in the region include renowned institutions like the Chrysler Museum of Art and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA), renowned for their internship programs and employment opportunities. For further career data and job outlook resources, visit the BLS Art Historians Job Outlook.

Prerequisites for Art History Programs

Typical prerequisites for enrolling in Art History programs include:

  • Undergraduate Admission:
    • A minimum GPA of 2.5 (as seen at ODU).
    • Portfolio submission is required for studio-based programs, notably at VCU.
    • SAT/ACT scores are optional for the 2024 admission cycle.
  • Graduate Admission:
    • GRE scores (requirements vary by institution).
    • Submission of letters of recommendation and writing samples.

These prerequisites ensure that applicants have a foundational understanding of art and its historical context.

Art History Degree Requirements in Virginia

Degree Types and Curriculum

Virginia institutions offer several degree types in Art History:

  • Bachelor of Arts (B.A.): Focuses on art history surveys, research methods, and core courses covering ancient to contemporary art.
  • Master of Arts (M.A.): Provides specializations in areas such as global art, museum studies, and curatorial practices; includes mandatory internships, such as the one offered at VCU.
  • Doctoral Programs: Highly competitive and less common, with UVA offering comprehensive Ph.D. tracks.

Core Courses and Specializations

Students typically complete courses in:

  • Art history surveys spanning various historical periods.
  • Research methodologies and critical theory.
  • Specialized topics, such as Ancient to Medieval, Early Modern, and Modern/Contemporary art (ODU), and global art practices (VCU).

Accreditation and Admission Details

These programs adhere to rigorous academic standards, accredited by bodies such as the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC).

Regulatory and Resource Bodies

Students in Chesapeake, Virginia, can also consult official educational resources:

Additional Resources and Professional Organizations

Students and professionals can further enhance their education and career prospects through:

  • Professional Organizations: College Art Association (CAA), American Alliance of Museums (AAM), Association of Art Museum Curators (AAMC), and Virginia Art Education Association (VAEA).
  • City-Specific Networks: Chesapeake Arts Alliance and the Hampton Roads Art History Network.
  • Educational Institutes & Internship Opportunities: MESDA Summer Institute, partnerships with the Chrysler Museum of Art, and fellowship opportunities at the VMFA.

Tuition details, fees, scholarship opportunities, and financial aid information can be obtained directly from the individual school’s admissions office.

Get Started Today

The journey toward a successful career in art history begins with a single step. Aspiring art historians are encouraged to connect with regional schools and cultural institutions to gain further insight into their programs and opportunities. Explore your educational options and contact a school today using the inquiry forms on their websites to begin your academic and professional adventure.