Explore the history of art.
Over the centuries, visual artists have depicted the world in styles ranging from primitive to realistic to abstract. As an Art History student, you learn how these developments reflect the times in which the artists lived.
Art class sizes at PC are smaller, so your instructors are able to give you individualized attention. Outside the classroom, experiences like studying abroad and volunteering in the community expand your learning opportunities.
The Power of Your Degree
- Expand your perspective.
Explore history’s influence on art, and art’s influence on history. - Broaden your knowledge.
Pair your studies with other disciplines like English, international studies, and history. - Solidify your skill set.
Conduct effective research and develop reasoned, well-documented findings. - Become a critical thinker.
Analyze visual material in historical, cultural, and social contexts.
42 Hours
Required for Art History major coursework
Senior Capstone
To demonstrate your skills in Art History research, writing, and presentation
12:1 Student-To-Faculty Ratio
In discussion-based classroom settings
Cecilia Santiago ’25
“You’ll love majoring in art at PC if you’re passionate about art like I am. You’ll develop technical skills, push beyond your limits, and get a deeper understanding of historical and contemporary art practices. It’s a fulfilling and rewarding experience!”
What You’ll Study
The Art History program enhances the liberal arts curriculum by intersecting Art with other disciplines. Your courses connect a variety of subjects – from chemistry and international studies to business and general humanities.
They also satisfy your general education requirements in the Fine Arts. Meanwhile, you develop skills like analyzing ideas, researching primary and secondary sources, and writing evidence-based papers in your own voice.
If eligible, you may also conduct an honors project, which earns you marks of distinction on your transcript and diploma. You can minor in Art History by successfully completing 18 hours of courses in Art History.
Get Involved
At Presbyterian College, you can actively pursue your passion for Art History through programs and opportunities that take you of the classroom and into the real world—all while expanding your experience, perspective, and skillsets.
Careers in Art History
Art Majors and Minors have attended notable graduate schools like New York University and Savannah College of Art and Design. Art alumni now work in related fields like Graphic Design, Teaching, and Art Auctioning. Graduates have gone on to work at the Jewish Museum in New York City and the Boulder Art Museum. Other alumni work in other disciplines like historic preservation, medicine, and law.
Career Professions
Gallery Director
Archivist
Restoration Technician
Art Education Director
Digital Collections Manager
Collections Manager
Museum Development Officer
Antiquities Specialist
Historical Preservation Specialist
Art Dealer
Conservator
Corporate Art Curator
Authentication Specialist
Insurance Specialist
Museum Curator
Appraiser
Art Critic
Auction House Specialist
Exhibition Designer
Public Art Coordinator
Art Historical Researcher
Acquired Skills
Visual Literacy
Critical Thinking
Collection Management
Exhibition Design
Digital Image Management
Communication Skills
Art Period Identification
Cultural Sensitivity
Narrative Construction
Problem Solving
Cross-Cultural Appreciation
Analytical Reasoning
Global Perspective
Visual Analysis
Ethical Awareness
Historical Perspective
Aesthetic Judgment
Interpretive Skills
Quick Stats
$58,000
Average Median Salary
Art History graduates typically earn a median salary of $36,702 early in their careers, with the average wage in the workforce reaching approximately $58,000. Top earners can make over $83,000 annually, especially in roles such as postsecondary educators or museum directors. However, many graduates face challenges in securing high-paying positions, leading to underemployment in fields unrelated to their degree.
9% Growth
Projected Employment Rate
Employment for museum workers, curators, and archivists is projected to grow by about 9 percent from 2018 to 2028, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to result in approximately 4,700 job openings annually, primarily due to the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force.
Moderate Versatility
Career Diversity Index
Art History majors possess a moderate degree of career versatility, with opportunities spanning education, museums, galleries, and cultural institutions. While some roles may require additional skills or certifications, the analytical and research skills developed in an Art History program are applicable to a variety of professions. Graduates often pursue advanced degrees in related fields to enhance their career prospects.
Source(s): Research.com
