student with glasses and floral sweater examining artwork mounted to wall

School of Visual ArtsArt History Bachelor's Degree

  • BA

About the Art History BA

Ready to dive into the world of art? Columbia College Chicago’s Art History bachelor’s degree program equips you with the skills to interpret and analyze art. Our unique approach emphasizes diverse and socially engaged fields of study. Under the guidance of accomplished art historians and artists, you'll explore modern and contemporary art, design, photography, and architecture from a global perspective. Develop your research skills and gain a critical understanding of art's impact on society while collaborating with peers and faculty mentors.

Examples of Art History Careers

  • Art appraiser
  • Art consultant
  • Art conservationist
  • Art educator
  • Art historian
  • Art writer/critic
  • Cultural resource manager
  • Exhibition designer
  • Gallery manager
  • Museum curator

The Student Experience

Explore the social function of art—what it means, why it’s important, and how it changes our perceptions of society. Our supportive faculty of professional art historians will foster your unique viewpoint and critical thinking skills. You’ll graduate prepared to publish your work and pursue graduate school or a career in galleries, museums, teaching, or curating.

  • Take exciting courses Immerse yourself in courses that cover the breadth of art history while gaining the vocabulary to describe and critique various visual cultures. Participate in exciting field trips to museums, galleries, and pop-up events to enhance your learning.
  • Enjoy living in a cultural hubLive near some of the world's leading museums, including the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Art Institute of Chicago, and enjoy free access as a Columbia student. Your faculty mentors will help you find internships and professional experiences in the city’s dynamic art scene.
  • Gain hands-on experienceIntern at local galleries, museums, and nonprofits. Work alongside faculty on original research projects that prepare you for graduate studies and future careers in the arts.
  • Join a communityJoin the Columbia Art History Alliance, a student group dedicated to exploring modern and contemporary art topics. Connect with fellow students who share your passion and expand your network within the arts community.

Georgia O'Keeffe Sky Above Clouds

Career Readiness

Columbia College Chicago integrates academic training with professional opportunities to ensure you’re career-ready.

  • Real-world experience

    Attend seminars and critiques featuring nationally acclaimed artists as part of the Art Now! lecture series. Join a network of successful alumni who work as gallerists, curators, and critics, providing a supportive community for current students.

  • Explore related programs

    If you’re interested in studio practice, explore our Fine Arts BA and BFA programs. Popular minors among Art History majors include Arts Management and Black World Studies.

Alumni Spotlight

Tempestt Hazel artist

Tempestt Hazel ’10

Curator, writer, artist advocate, and founding editor of Sixty Inches from Center, a Chicago-based online arts publication and archiving initiative.

98%

of 2023 grads are employed, enrolled in continued education, or pursuing their creative practice.

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