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Speaker at the opening of the Baguss Art Opening

Bachelor of Arts in Art History

We are surrounded by a diverse array of images every day. A degree in art history from the University of St. Thomas provides the necessary training for understanding how art forms reveal ideas about history, ethics, creativity, religion and so much more. A major or minor in art history gives you the tools to critically analyze the role visuals have played over time and across cultures.

Why Study Art History at St. Thomas?

We explore many dimensions of art across a vast range of periods and cultures. We challenge our students to become investigators as they ask and answer questions about art and design and its role in cultural expression. Our program pairs well with other programs at the university, ranging from business to history, all the way to theology. Recent graduates are pursuing careers in education, art conservation, architecture, historic preservation, curatorial work, interior design and publishing.

We Study Art in Its Cultural Context

  • Course Requirements
  • Four-Year Plan
  • Degrees Awarded
  • Scholarships
  • Internship Opportunities
  • Course Requirements

    Art history majors complete three core classes focusing on developing their foundational knowledge about art history and its methods, eventually culminating in a capstone project, a thesis and presentation in their senior year. Additional coursework examines art from the beginning of time to the present in classes on the art of Asia, Mesoamerica, Pacific, Africa and the Diaspora, type design, museums and architecture.

    Four-Year Plan

    You will explore the many dimensions of art throughout your undergraduate career. Our program embodies the liberal arts by considering art within its broader and social contexts. We recommend connecting with a faculty member to plan your time at St. Thomas.

    Degrees Awarded

    • Bachelor of Arts in Art History
    • Minor in Art History

    Scholarships

    As an art history major at St. Thomas, you have access to a variety of scholarships. Students are eligible to apply or be nominated for the following opportunities:

    • Stanley Ryan Scholarship for the Arts
    • Art History Department Research Travel Grant
    • Luann Dummer Center for Women Research Grant
    • Jaffray Research Scholarship for the Study of Asmat Art

    Internship Opportunities

    We encourage our students to pursue internships throughout their time at St. Thomas. Students have interned with organizations including the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Minnesota Historical Society, the Walker Art Center, the Minnesota Museum of American Art and the Whitney Museum of Art in New York City.

    Course Requirements

    Course Requirements

    Art history majors complete three core classes focusing on developing their foundational knowledge about art history and its methods, eventually culminating in a capstone project, a thesis and presentation in their senior year. Additional coursework examines art from the beginning of time to the present in classes on the art of Asia, Mesoamerica, Pacific, Africa and the Diaspora, type design, museums and architecture.

    Four-Year Plan

    Four-Year Plan

    You will explore the many dimensions of art throughout your undergraduate career. Our program embodies the liberal arts by considering art within its broader and social contexts. We recommend connecting with a faculty member to plan your time at St. Thomas.

    Degrees Awarded

    Degrees Awarded

    • Bachelor of Arts in Art History
    • Minor in Art History

    Scholarships

    Scholarships

    As an art history major at St. Thomas, you have access to a variety of scholarships. Students are eligible to apply or be nominated for the following opportunities:

    • Stanley Ryan Scholarship for the Arts
    • Art History Department Research Travel Grant
    • Luann Dummer Center for Women Research Grant
    • Jaffray Research Scholarship for the Study of Asmat Art

    Internship Opportunities

    Internship Opportunities

    We encourage our students to pursue internships throughout their time at St. Thomas. Students have interned with organizations including the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Minnesota Historical Society, the Walker Art Center, the Minnesota Museum of American Art and the Whitney Museum of Art in New York City.

    Three individuals analyze a piece of artwork displayed on a wall.

    The Opportunities are Endless

    Art history students are well-rounded and knowledgeable, finding work in a variety of different industries after graduation.

    • Architecture
    • Law
    • Museums and Galleries
    • Design
    • Academia

    Top of the Class

    #2

    Our program was recently ranked by as the second-best art history program of any size in the Midwest.

    $1,500

    We award a $1,500 research travel grant to qualified students in preparation for their capstone course.

    2,500

    There are 2,500 objects in our American Museum of Asmat Art collection, one of the largest collections of its kind.

    Oh, the Places You'll Go

    Our program prides itself on providing regular study abroad opportunities, collaborative research with faculty and professional development workshops that prepare you for life after St. Thomas.

    Students in London jumping in photo.

    Study Abroad

    The J-term study abroad course "ARTH 150 - Exploration in Art History in London" takes you to London, where you immerse yourself in the rich history of art and architecture in the city.
    Items from an exhibit featuring the Voorsanger Architects Archive are shown.

    Resources

    You have the opportunity to explore various galleries on campus, including the American Museum of Asmat Art, the University Art Collection and the Department of Art History Gallery. In addition, St. Thomas and Bartholomew Voorsanger entered an agreement in 2015 to open the Voorsanger Architects Archive, which holds select projects in digital, oral and physical media.
    A group of students observe an art conservationist examine a mask

    Professional Development

    Majors and minors are eligible to apply for employment as paid student assistants in the Visual Resource Center. We also host professional development workshops that allow you to network and prepare yourself for positions in the field after graduation.

    Art History video

    Ready for the Real World

    Art history students gain a unique perspective on the world and society through our curriculum. Art history majors graduate with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in multiple industries as well as navigate the complexities of our modern society.

    Take the Next Step

    best-value-logo-2022-transparent.pngThere is more to learn about St. Thomas; including our ranking as a Best Value School by U.S. News & World Report, the many classroom and extracurricular activities that will be part of your student experience and so much more. Schedule a visit to see our beautiful campus or start your application today.