American University United States

Art History

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 2 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Master of Arts in Art History at American University offers you an advanced exploration of European and American art from the early Renaissance to the present, alongside significant engagement with Asian and other non-Western artistic traditions. This postgraduate degree is ideal if you aspire to doctoral studies or a career in curatorial work, museum management, or related fields. You will cultivate a deep understanding of art historical methodologies and research practices, honing your skills in critical analysis, visual interpretation, and effective communication about art. The program encourages innovative approaches to art history, fostering a broad comprehension of the discipline and its diverse applications.

This full-time, on-campus Masters Degree is completed over two years, providing a structured yet flexible academic journey. You will engage with core subjects like Approaches to Art History and Seminar in Art History, alongside elective options spanning Renaissance, Modern European, and American art, as well as photography and museum studies. Your studies will culminate in a capstone project, offering a choice between a digital project seminar or a thesis, allowing you to delve deeply into a chosen area. You will graduate prepared for roles in galleries, museums, and academic institutions, equipped with specialized knowledge and advanced research capabilities.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This course explores diverse approaches to art history, delving into periods such as the Northern Renaissance and Italian Renaissance, as well as modern European art movements from Rococo to Surrealism. Students will examine American art from conquest to social justice, alongside topics in East-West photography and contemporary Asian art. The curriculum also covers museum management and the role of women in the avant-garde, culminating in research seminars and thesis work.

1 Required (3 Credit Hours)

Approaches to art history

2 Additional (21 Credit Hours)

Museum management
Museum management
Northern renaissance art: texts and contexts
Northern renaissance art: sex and gender
Seminar in art history
Italian art: early renaissance
Italian art: high renaissance
Italian art: late renaissance and early baroque
Modern European art: rococo to realism
Modern European art: impressionism and post-impressionism
Modern European art: expressionism to surrealism
Women and the avant-garde
Museums and society
East-west photography
Envisioning the nation: modern and contemporary art in asia
American art: European conquest to civil war
American art: civil war to civil rights
American art: civil rights to social justice
Selected topics: non-recurring
Selected topics: non-recurring

3 Capstone (6 Credit Hours)

Research seminar
Master's digital projects seminar
Thesis research seminar
Master's thesis research

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,270.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,270.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 120,540.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,000.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on Washington Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

91%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Adult & Continuing EducationCorporate Training & DevelopmentCurriculum & Instructional DesignCybersecurity & Digital ForensicsDefense & Military SecurityEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEmergency Services & Disaster ResponsePolice & Public SafetySecondary & High School EducationSpecial & Inclusive Education

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Montgomery Police Department (Alabama)

Smithsonian Institution

Why Study Art History at American University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

American University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at American University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Art History at American University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during the term and full-time during breaks. On-campus work does not require a separate permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

Applicants must meet specific English test requirements, including minimum scores for tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE. These scores ensure students are prepared for the language demands of the program.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include curator, art historian, museum educator, gallery manager, and researcher.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program focuses on advanced historical studies in European and American art, as well as Asian and other non-Western art. Students will develop critical thinking, visual analysis, and research skills essential for museum-related careers.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MA in Art History accepts students in January and August each year. Make sure to apply before the deadlines for these intake months.
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