The academic approach to art history suggests, that a culture’s nature is best revealed by its art. Art historians apply that principle when comparing past eras in western history or when relating western forms of thought and feeling with those of other cultures. Art history programs offer students the means of immersing themselves in cultural and aesthetic issues.

Some students want to pursue careers as curators, historic preservationists, archivists at the many museums and galleries across the country and internationally. Others, knowing they have an eye for art and design, but lacking the interest in pursuing a career as an artist, use art history to hone their intellectual abilities in art for careers in media, advertising, publishing, fashion or design. Another path for historians is art therapy, working with handicapped or disabled people.

Many careers do not require a specific major but rather a wide range of demonstrated skills and accomplishments. Most art history graduates continue their education and get Masters Degrees and Doctorates in more focused areas such as restoration or art therapy. Regardless of career choices, increasing one’s marketability to employers through internships, responsible work experience, good grades and involvement in college activities is important. A bachelor’s degree is sufficient for many entry-level positions, but for advancement in an area of specialization, an advanced degree may be required.

What can you do with an Art History degree.

• Advertising/Sales/Marketing Rep
• Archivist
• Publishing
• Arts Administrator
• Art Therapist
• Curator
• Visual Resource Curator
• Editor
• Educator
• Artist Representative
• Estate and Art Appraiser
• Photographer
• TV or Film producer
• Public Relations Assistant
• Retail Buyer
• Researcher
• Store Manager
• Textile Designer

Private and Non-profit Organizations

• Advertising Agencies
• Media Organizations
• Antique Dealers
• Museums
• Archives
• Performing Arts Centers
• Fashion Design Companies
• Photographic Studios
• Galleries
• Public Relations Firms
• Historic Preservation & Firms
• Publishing Firms
• Historical Societies
• Non-Profit Organizations
• Interior Design Firms
• Restored Communities/Estates
• Libraries
• Universities
• Magazines/Newspapers

Where Art History Graduates Work.

Government Agencies

• Arthur M. Sackler Gallery
• National Archives & Records Administration
• Department of Education
• National Endowment for the Arts
• Department of Veterans Affairs
• National Endowment for the Humanities
• Freer Gallery of Art
• National Gallery of Art
• Government Printing Office
• National Museum of African Art
• Hirshhorn Museum
• National Museum of American Art
• Institute of Museum Services
• National Museum of American History

Kendall Art History Graduates are Employed:

• A greater diversity of positions and options for Art History graduates are located in larger metro areas such asNew York, Boston, LA, Chicago
• College Professor â?? GRCC
• Executive Director â?? Michigan Youth Festival
• Gallery Director â?? Basille Center in Indianapolis
• Architectural Historian â?? Farewell Mills Gatsch Architects

Resources:

• Career Alternatives for Art Historians
• Career Guide for Art History Majors
• Art History Newsletter â?? register to have this free newsletter sent to your email.
• www.historians.org/PUBS/careers/chapter5.htm
• www.artstaffing.com â?? Placement agency in New York and Chicago, Job Listings.