Study art history abroad

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Find your perfect art history programs abroad

Find art history programs you love that match your needs and aspirations, where you stand a high chance of acceptance.

Art History degrees abroad

Art history is the academic study of visual images over time. It analyzes how art has both influenced, and been influenced by, social, cultural, and historical contexts.

You’ll study key artists, movements, themes, and techniques as you explore the role that art has played in societies throughout history. You’ll also learn how to interpret, analyze, and write about a variety of art forms. The skills you’ll develop on an art history program will prepare you for a successful career in the art sector and beyond.

By studying abroad, you’ll have the opportunity to visit and examine influential artwork in its original environment. Immersing yourself in a country’s art culture will help you grasp a clearer understanding of an artist’s intentions and purpose and enrich your education. You’ll meet inspiring people, visit beautiful destinations, and have a great deal of fun too.

Art History program structure

You can study art history as an undergraduate or postgraduate degree. A BA will last three or four years, depending on where you decide to study. Many universities also offer combined honors courses so that you can study art history alongside another related subject. Typical pairings include foreign languages and social sciences.

If you’ve always dreamt of studying in the US, you’ll likely choose art history as your undergraduate major. In the American liberal arts system, students improve their general education, as well as pursuing a specific interest. As such, you’ll complete liberal arts modules in the first half of your degree, before focusing entirely on art history for the latter half.

Art history is a popular choice when it comes to master’s programs. An MA usually requires one year of full-time study, or two years of part-time learning. If you’re still keen to learn more, you can enroll in a PhD program which takes an average of five years to complete.

You’ll be taught through a mixture of lectures, workshops, seminars, and one-to-one tutorials. Some universities also arrange field trips to art galleries and museums so that students can take learning beyond the textbook.

Methods of assessment vary between modules, but exams, essays, written assignments, presentations, and practical projects usually feature.

The content covered in art history programs is heavily influenced by universities’ national and cultural settings. However, most courses around the world will include these core modules:

  • Historical concepts in art
  • Art theories and approaches
  • Aesthetics and philosophy of art
  • Art methods, form, and function
  • Principles of visual culture
  • Research techniques in art history
  • Medieval to contemporary art
  • Renaissance art
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Best countries to study art history

Art History study abroad programs

What are the top art history undergraduate programs abroad?

See all undergraduate degrees in art history abroad

What are the top art history postgraduate programs abroad?

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Future art history careers

An art history degree will arm you with a number of specific and transferable skills, including critical analysis, observation, and communication. Several career paths will open up for you, and many art history graduates go on to secure interesting roles, including:

  • Museum or gallery manager
  • Museum or gallery curator
  • Exhibitions officer
  • Conservator
  • Archivist
  • Arts administrator
  • Teacher
  • Art critic

Undertaking voluntary placements and internships is a great way of gaining experience and boosting your employability. Your university’s career service can support you with contacting local galleries and museums.

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Alternative humanities & law degrees