Majors at the University of Connecticut
Art History
Art History majors study both the history and the aesthetic ideology that goes into a work of visual art. Art Historians are responsible for defining a work of art by placing it in its proper historical context. In doing so, the student must learn how to examine the layers of influence that go into making a piece of art, which include the social, political and personal forces underlying an artist's development. The program combines art historical theory, style, and methodology, all of which encompass the various different time periods throughout history. Through this major, the student is given the opportunity to explore their own artistic inclination through the basic studio art courses that are required. Students are also given the option to specialize in a particular geographic area, country, or time period.
Academic Department
Nature of Work
When going into the field of art history individuals must be prepared to research and discover the influence behind artists' works. The careers that an art history major can enter are varied; therefore, so is the type of work associated with art history careers. For example, a curator at a museum performs different tasks than an art historian working in media, or one focuses on art therapy. Major characteristics of the work of an art historian will include research and presentation regardless of the type of work. Also, art historians may be required to travel internationally in order to gain a first-hand understanding the local culture of origin.
Sample Job Titles
- Art Historian
- Estate Appraiser
- Collections Manager
- Antiques Dealer
- Fund Raiser
- Art Critic
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- Art Librarian
- Tour Guide
- Arts Administrator
- Art Advisor
- Visual Resource Curator
- Artist Representative
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- Antiquarian Book Trader
- Corporate Curator
- Curatorial Consultant
- Art Investment Consultant
- Independent Film and TV Producer
- Preservation and Conservation Specialist
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Potential Employers
Potential employers include museums that hire art historians for exhibition installations, administration, reproduction, and retailing. Publishing and law firms, art galleries and auction houses are all potential employers of art history majors. Art libraries, governmental agencies, institutions of education and even film production companies may also hire art history graduates.
Useful Skills
Art history students should have good verbal and written communication skills because the sharing of information in this field is essential. They should also possess skills in critical thinking as well as the ability to thoroughly conduct research. Other useful skills include the ability to communicate effectively with colleagues, and the ability to work alone or as part of a team.
Getting Experience
At UConn there is a University sponsored study abroad program that students are highly encouraged to become a part of. It allows the students to immerse themselves in a foreign culture and is useful in gaining a reading knowledge of a foreign language (French or German are encouraged and a reading knowledge is required for grad school). One may also gain experience through internships with local museums, co-ops or a work study program.
Employment Opportunities
There are a wide range of possibilities for employment in areas such as education, communication, entertainment, marketing, and research and development. The growing use of visual images in these fields will continue the demand for innovative works of art. Although there is vast employment in this area, it is a highly competitive field, so one may need an alternative form of income in order to pursue a career within this industry.
Internet Links
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