Art History concentration students work to understand artworks as part of a rich cultural tapestry and to relate that to others.
Art History concentration students engage with actual artworks as well as research and writing.
Traveling to museums and galleries is an exciting part of the Art History concentration.
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Quick Facts
- Delivery: On Campus
- Credits:45
- Accreditation: Our programs are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. Learn more.
The School of Art offers a four-year liberal arts degree program leading to a Bachelor of Arts in Art (BA) with a concentration in Art History.
Art History explores objects, images, and spaces across time and around the globe. Students learn to analyze their significance in cultural, historical, political, religious, and social contexts.
Comprehensive surveys of global art introduce students to artistic production from ancient times to the contemporary era. Through intermediate courses in each of three areas encompassing ancient to early modern Europe; Asia, Africa, and Latin America; and modern and contemporary art, students gain broad historical and cultural knowledge. Advanced courses foster students’ ability to understand and apply different art historical approaches, develop a deeper understanding and knowledge of particular cultures and eras as well as collaborate on presentations and discussions.
In all Art History courses, students develop skills in visual analysis, critical thinking, research, and writing. Students engage with scholarship and learn to communicate effectively orally and in writing, using clear and concise prose to advance logical arguments supported by authoritative and appropriately cited research materials. In advanced seminars, students work collaboratively with faculty to learn how to develop their own research questions, carry out research to answer their questions, and explain why their research matters. Students complete an independent thesis-driven research project that includes an extended written paper and public presentation.
Students have opportunities to work with objects in the David Owsley Museum of Art on campus and travel to visit other regional and national museums on field trips. Study abroad programs offer students chances to gain firsthand experience with other languages and cultures and study major artworks in person.
Career Paths
Graduates of the Art History program pursue fulfilling careers in:
- Museums, galleries, auction houses, and archives
- Arts nonprofits and cultural organizations
- Publishing, film, and television
- Art conservation and historic preservation
- Consulting, finance, law, teaching, and medicine
Major in Art with a Concentration in Art History
This concentration is part of the art major and provides students with focused study in the specific area of art history.
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Take the Next Step
If you’d like to learn more about our Art History Concentration, complete our online form. Or one of the best ways to get a true feel for Ball State is to see it for yourself, so schedule a visit today! And if you’re ready to apply, review our admission requirements and complete our online application.