Art History Programs in Washington

Getting an Art History Degree in Washington

An Art History Degree offers students an in-depth understanding of art, its history, and its cultural impact. In Washington, students can choose from various educational paths including Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral programs. These art history programs provide comprehensive coursework in art theory, critical analysis, and museum studies, preparing graduates for careers in academia, museums, galleries, and beyond.

Why Study Art History in Washington

Washington is known for its dynamic art scene, with a rich blend of modern exhibitions, local galleries, and renowned museums. For more information about the state, visit the official Washington state website. The state boasts an active cultural sector marked by collaborations between schools and local museums such as the Seattle Art Museum. Careers in art history-related fields in Washington offer competitive average salaries and steady job growth. For detailed employment outlooks and salary data, see the Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook page.

Prerequisites for Art History Programs

Before applying to art history programs in Washington, prospective students should have:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent.
  • A minimum GPA requirement; for example, Seattle University requires a minimum GPA of 2.0, while Western Washington University expects a B average in prerequisite courses.
  • Some programs, such as the BA in Art History at Western Washington University, may require a portfolio submission for studio majors.
  • Entrance exams or additional documentation may be required based on the institution’s guidelines.

Typical Program Curriculum

Art History programs in Washington typically include a mix of foundational courses and specialized studies. Undergraduate coursework covers topics from modern and contemporary art to global art traditions and museum studies. Programs generally require around 180 total credits with specific levels such as 200-, 300-, and 400-level courses. Specializations might include themes like Modern/Contemporary Art, Asian Art, or Digital Media, and may culminate with capstone projects or theses in graduate and doctoral programs.

Art History Programs in Washington

Several top schools in Washington offer accredited and comprehensive Art History programs, all of which verify their accreditation status through the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).

  • University of Washington (Seattle, WA)

    • Program Offered: BA, MA, and PhD in Art History
    • Program Details: The BA in Art History requires 60 credits of 200-, 300-, and 400-level courses plus 180 total credits. The MA and PhD programs further develop specialized knowledge with coursework, thesis or capstone projects, and comprehensive exams.
    • Program Features: Partnerships with local museums like the Seattle Art Museum provide students access to rare collections and digital archives.
    • Address: Seattle, WA
    • More Information: Visit the University of Washington’s official website.

  • Seattle University (Seattle, WA)

    • Program Offered: BA in Art History
    • Program Details: This program requires 180 credits including a foreign language proficiency component that can be fulfilled up to the 1350 level.
    • Program Features: Emphasizes global art history, art theory, and fosters museum partnerships, as well as study abroad opportunities in Europe and Asia.
    • Address: Seattle, WA
    • More Information: Visit the Seattle University official website.

  • Western Washington University (Bellingham, WA)

    • Program Offered: BA in Art History
    • Program Details: Applicants should have completed prerequisites such as A/HI 275 plus two 200-level surveys and maintain a B average in those prerequisites. Deadlines are typically October 15 and January 31, and studio majors are required to undergo a portfolio review.
    • Program Features: The program offers specializations in modern art, digital media, and art education, along with scholarship opportunities like the Bennerstrom Prize and various career workshops.
    • Address: Bellingham, WA
    • More Information: Visit the Western Washington University official website.

Art History Career Opportunities in Washington

Washington’s cultural institutions provide a wealth of career opportunities for art history graduates. Major museums and galleries include:

  • Seattle Art Museum

    • Overview: A leading museum showcasing a diverse collection of art from around the world.
    • Opportunities: Employment information and career opportunities can be explored on the museum’s official careers page.
    • Location: Seattle, WA
    • More Information: Visit the Seattle Art Museum official website.

  • Tacoma Art Museum

    • Overview: Recognized for its unique exhibitions and regional focus on Northwest art.
    • Opportunities: Job openings and employment details are available on the museum’s official employment page.
    • Location: Tacoma, WA
    • More Information: Visit the Tacoma Art Museum official website.

  • Frye Art Museum

    • Overview: A contemporary institution with an emphasis on modern art and innovative exhibitions.
    • Opportunities: For career opportunities, refer to the institution’s employment information available on its official site.
    • Location: Seattle, WA
    • More Information: Visit the Frye Art Museum official website.

Professional Organizations and Resources

Art history professionals in Washington benefit from numerous resources:

  • College Art Association (CAA): Offers conferences, job listings, and publication opportunities. Visit CAA.
  • American Alliance of Museums (AAM): Provides a strong professional network and resources for museum professionals. Visit AAM.
  • Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC): Oversees higher education policies and degree authorization. For further details, visit the WSAC Degree Authorization page.
  • Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI): Aligns K-12 and higher education standards; visit OSPI.

Cost and Financial Aid

Tuition for Art History programs in Washington can vary widely depending on the institution and residency status. Costs can range from approximately $5,000 to over $20,000 per year for in-state students. Prospective students should explore financial aid options including scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. Additional financial support is available through organizations like the Washington State Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA).

Career Advancement Opportunities

Graduates with an Art History Degree in Washington have a variety of career paths. Potential roles include museum curator, art educator, art consultant, and exhibition coordinator. To further enhance their qualifications, graduates may pursue additional certifications or advanced degrees. Interested professionals can access further career development resources through state agencies and art-specific professional organizations.

Get Started Today

Washington offers diverse and accredited Art History programs that can pave the way for a fulfilling career in the arts. With strong local museum partnerships, specialized coursework, and comprehensive career resources, students are encouraged to contact their preferred school today through the available inquiry forms on each institution’s website. Take the next step in your art history education journey and unlock a world of opportunities in Washington.