Online Art History Programs 2021

Art history majors study works within the social, political, cultural, and intellectual contexts to which they belong and both represent and define. Well-designed online art history degrees develop a student’s imagination, powers of observation and expression, and the ability to assess and organize visual information.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports a median annual salary of $49,850 for archivists, curators, and museum workers, jobs well-suited for an art history graduate. Additionally, the BLS projects an 11% growth rate for jobs in this sector, which is much faster than the projected 4% growth rate for all other occupations. Art history majors can look forward to entering a professional arena with high income potential and opportunities for career growth.

Top Online Art History Degree Programs

Why Get a Degree in Art History?

For many students, pursuing a degree in art history gives them the opportunity to turn their passion into an occupation. Whether a student decides to pursue an on-campus or online art history degree, they can reap benefits similar to the five listed below.

Calculating the Cost of a College Degree

The calculation tool below helps students compare program costs among several institutions. Applicants can usually find the required information on a school’s website. Keep in mind that some on-campus expenses may not apply to online enrollees and schools can charge these students an added technology fee.

Courses in Art History School

Art history majors typically enroll in classes focusing on defining eras in the ancient and modern art world. They also study distinctive artistic styles of expression and conception throughout history and worldwide. Art history majors also study critiquing and authentication techniques and pedagogy.

Specialization areas in art history usually focus on a particular genre or period such as Baroque art or the Renaissance. Many art history programs include onsite visits to local museums and art centers. The courses described below represent a small sample of classes typically offered in an art history program online.

• Introduction to European Art
• Modern Art and Spiritual Thought
• Art Historical Methods
• Modern and Contemporary Art and Design
• Women in the Visual Arts

Introduction to European Art

This course gives students the chance to examine the works, philosophies, and contributions of various renowned European artists like Michelangelo, Boticelli, Caravaggio, and Rembrandt. The course focuses mainly on the development, growth, and modern-day influence of European art and architecture. However, students also explore contemporary topics such as fashion, urban space, and performance art in various European cultural centers.

Modern Art and Spiritual Thought

Students examine the aesthetics of modern art from a spiritual perspective. The course covers topics such as surrealism, abstract expressionism, and theosophy. Learners study the works of Kandinsky and Mondrian, the pioneering artists of this genre and era. The course guides students in developing the critical tools needed to evaluate and enhance the modern art experience.

Art Historical Methods

The class introduces students to research methods specifically relating to art history. Students learn how to frame an authentic art history research question, which will form the basis of a scholarly inquiry. The course also provides learners with the tools to develop, research, write, and present their findings.

Modern and Contemporary Art and Design

The course familiarizes students with the modern art movement from the mid-1800s to the present. Students explore various aspects of modernism through original films and audio works, photographs, fiber sculptures, and other contemporary art forms. Topics include motivations and methods of modern artists, fashion as art and design, and nontraditional art materials and mediums.

Women in the Visual Arts

In this course, students examine the different representations of women in art throughout history. Degree-seekers also study the work of influential female artists such as Frida Kahlo, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Eva Hesse. They examine how women artists viewed and represented various female-centered themes such as motherhood, female sexuality, and prostitution.

Scholarships for Art History Students

Prospective art history majors can find various scholarship opportunities within the field. Several professional organizations and private nonprofits also maintain financial aid programs for students pursuing a degree in art history or museum studies. The three scholarships below provide a starting point for art history majors seeking financial assistance.

Online Art History Programs 2021