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Art History is the discipline of Fine Art that focuses on the in-depth study of the visual arts for the purpose of understanding artists and traditions. Art Historians use their knowledge of art, both past and present, to teach others how to interpret, understand, and enjoy various forms of art. Colorado Mesa University offers a BFA with a concentration in Art History.

The Bachelor of Art (BA) degree in Art History combines strong curriculum requirements in both studio art and art history courses. Students in this major will develop skills in studio techniques and will engage in the in-depth study of historic and contemporary artists, art movements, and styles. CMU’s Art Department offers students opportunities to expand their art knowledge through internship and exhibition opportunities, national and international travel, and clubs.

Upon completion graduates are ready to enter into professional employment at art museums and galleries, art publishing houses, and other areas of art services. Graduates are also well prepared to continue into graduate level art history programs.

Learn more about CMU's Art History program

  • Antiquarian book trade
  • Antiques dealer
  • Architectural conservation
  • Archivist
  • Art advisor
  • Art appraiser
  • Art buyer
  • Art collection manager
  • Art conservator
  • Art consultant
  • Art database manager
  • Art handler
  • Art history fellow
  • Art investment
  • Art investor
  • Art librarian
  • Art marketing
  • Art teacher
  • Art writer
  • Auction house
  • Collection management
  • Gallery director
  • Grant writer
  • Heritage officer
  • Journalist
  • Museum curator
  • Picture editor
  • Preservation and conservation
  • Professor
  • Project coordinator

Note: Some of the occupations listed above may require additional education, experience, or training beyond a Bachelor’s Degree. To research these occupations use the Career Research Resources links below.

  • Identify when an art object was created and by whom.
  • Research artists to determine the social/cultural implications of the work they created.
  • Teach Art History at a university or college.
  • Write exhibits that provide compelling interpretations of objects.
  • Keep detailed records of inventory for a museum.
  • Attend conferences that give presentations about art.
  • Write for scholarly publications.
  • Place value on art for a government, museum, or private collector.
  • Assist police agency/FBI with art theft crimes.
  • Repair/restore works of art.
  • Purchase art for museums or art galleries.
  • Assist artists with art gallery sales/displays.
  • Plan and/or set up exhibits for museums or art galleries.
  • Provide art consultation for film or print.  
  • Edit and/or publish art books.
  • Write grants for local city or art associations.
  • Museums
  • Professional publications
  • Government agencies
  • Magazines
  • Universities/colleges
  • Public/private schools
  • Police/FBI
  • Libraries
  • Private collectors
  • Auction houses
  • Lawyers
  • Insurance agencies
  • Art galleries

Skills Needed by Art History majors:

  • Good communication skills; both speech and writing.
  • Flexible schedule
  • Good organization skills
  • Good memory
  • CreativityComputer literacy
  • Web production skills
  • Interpersonal relations
  • Work independently or in a team
  • Self-motivated

Other Art History resources