Art History Programs in Bellevue, Washington

Pursuing an Art History Degree in Bellevue, Washington

An Art History degree provides a comprehensive study of visual culture and artistic movements, enabling individuals to analyze and appreciate art from various historical periods. In Bellevue, Washington, prospective students can choose from various education paths—from certificate courses and undergraduate programs to graduate studies leading to a BA, MA, or PhD. These programs combine classroom learning with hands-on experiences to prepare students for careers in museums, galleries, and cultural institutions.

About Bellevue

Bellevue is a dynamic city in King County, Washington, known for its modern urban planning and commitment to the arts. The city offers a rich cultural scene with public installations and local art exhibitions. For more information about the city’s resources and events, visit the official Bellevue website. Local landmarks and museums, including the Bellevue Arts Museum, contribute significantly to the region’s creative landscape.

Art History Programs in Bellevue, Washington

While Bellevue itself offers art and liberal arts courses at local colleges, students can also explore highly regarded Art History programs in nearby institutions. Below are three prominent options:

  1. Bellevue College

    • Program Details: Bellevue College features a robust liberal arts curriculum that includes art history courses integrated within its arts programs.
    • Address: 300 116th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98004 (Crossroads neighborhood)
    • Website: Bellevue College

  2. University of Washington – Art History Program

    • Program Details: The University of Washington offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs in Art History, emphasizing research methods and critical theory. The program benefits from close partnerships with local museums such as the Seattle Art Museum and the Burke Museum.
    • Address: 1500 N University St, Seattle, WA 98195 (University District)
    • Distance from Bellevue: Approximately 10 miles
    • Program Page: UW Art History

  3. Seattle University – BA in Art History

    • Program Details: Seattle University emphasizes global art history and interdisciplinary studies, requiring language proficiency for certain specializations.
    • Address: 901 12th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122 (First Hill neighborhood)
    • Distance from Bellevue: Approximately 10 miles
    • Website: Seattle University

Art History Career Opportunities in Bellevue, Washington

Bellevue offers promising career pathways for Art History graduates through a number of local cultural institutions and galleries. Key opportunities include:

  • Bellevue Arts Museum (BAM)

    • Overview: BAM supports local arts education and hosts a variety of exhibitions and community programs, providing internships and employment opportunities for graduates.
    • Address: 510 Bellevue Way NE, Bellevue, WA 98004 (Downtown Bellevue)
    • Website: Bellevue Arts Museum

  • Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture

    • Overview: Located in Seattle’s University District, the Burke Museum offers art history-related exhibits and educational programs that can serve as valuable career stepping stones.
    • Address: 4300 Burke Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98105 (Approximately 12 miles from Bellevue)
    • Website: Burke Museum

In addition, professionals can benefit from resources provided by organizations such as the King County Arts Commission, and explore job outlook information for related careers on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.

Prerequisites for Art History Programs

Admission requirements for Art History programs generally include:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent for undergraduate admission.
  • A minimum GPA of 2.75 for BA programs.
  • SAT/ACT scores, which may be optional at some institutions.
  • For graduate studies (MA/PhD), submission of GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and writing samples is common.
  • Some programs, such as the one at Seattle University, require proficiency in a non-English language.
  • Portfolio submissions may be necessary for programs with a studio component.

Art History Degree Requirements in Washington

Earning an Art History degree in Washington involves meeting both general and state-specific academic criteria. Below are key elements:

  • Official Educational Regulatory Bodies:

    • Bellevue School District oversees local K-12 education, including arts education. Website | Contact: (425) 456-4000
    • King County Office of Education coordinates county-wide arts initiatives. Website | Contact: (206) 477-4000
    • Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) manages higher education policies in the state. Website | Contact: (360) 753-7800
    • U.S. Department of Education provides national standards and support, including Title IV funding. Website

  • Degree Types and Curriculum:

    • Bachelor of Arts (BA): Typically requires a minimum GPA of 2.75, introductory art history surveys, research methods, and a capstone project.
    • Master of Arts (MA): Includes advanced coursework, thesis or practicum tracks, and may require GRE scores along with letters of recommendation.
    • Doctor of Philosophy (PhD): Emphasizes interdisciplinary research and original scholarship.
    • Core Courses: Cover art history surveys, critical theory, and specialized research methodologies.
    • Internships: Programs often require practical internships with institutions like the Seattle Art Museum.

  • Accreditation:

    • Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD); candidates are encouraged to verify program accreditation via the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) database.

  • Specializations:

    • Programs offer specializations in global art history, medieval art, modern/contemporary art, among others, providing tailored academic and career pathways.

Get Started Today

Embarking on an Art History degree journey can open numerous doors within the creative and cultural industries. Prospective students in Bellevue are encouraged to explore these educational options, understand the admission prerequisites, and review program requirements to identify the best fit. Contact your chosen institution through the forms on their websites to get more information and begin your path toward a rewarding career in art education and cultural heritage management.