Art History
When pursuing an Art History degree at Minnesota State University Moorhead, you’re not simply learning isolated, arcane facts. Instead, you’ll actively integrate diverse bodies of knowledge into cohesive projects, by studying textual documents and material artifacts, researching and interpreting original sources, and gaining a broad understanding of historical, cultural and social frameworks. In addition, you’ll develop the skills necessary to prepare you for graduate school or careers in a growing field, including knowledge of foreign language and project management.
All Art History faculty have earned doctorates in art history from highly regarded institutions. They have the perfect combination of teaching and research experience, and are eager to share their insights with you.
MSUM Art History alumni are highly successful in their careers and are making an impact with what they do. Some enter graduate programs following graduation, while others enter the workforce straightaway. Our alumni hold positions in museums, galleries, corporate art collections, archives, schools and historical societies, among others.
Our students have access to various museum collections, archives and prestigious internships, all which give you a leg up in your search for a career following graduation.
The Art History degree will prepare you exceptionally well for the career of your choosing. Mandatory studio art courses will provide you with deeper insight to materials and methods in art, while the thesis requirement provides intensive research, project management and public speaking experience; skills essential for employers.
Art Student Success Stories
Painting to Freedom
Ellen and Paul Diederich's support of the arts is celebrated with a newly named art gallery at MSUM.
Franklin Ugochukwu's Journey Through Art and Teaching
Franklin Ugochukwu is a local artist who also happens to be an MSUM alum. Franklin is a well-known character in the Fargo/Moorhead art world. Franklin balances his art career, running a YouTube channel, and staying involved with MSUM.
Artistic roots shape BFA graduate’s career in global security
MSU Moorhead BFA alum Tom Weis uses his unique background to make an impact in the world of global security. He stays connected to campus, occasionally returning to share advice with current MSUM School of Art students.
Enhance your education outside of the classroom by exploring the world of art in regional, national and international art galleries, museums and more. Study abroad, take a day trip to a museum, or land an internship with a respected visual arts organization.
You might also be interested in…
Anthropology | Art Education | History | English | Studio Art | Graphic & Interactive Design
MSUM’s art history program covers major fields in art history ensuring you receive a broad and diverse education, which is important for understanding the evolution across different cultures and time periods. This diversity allows you to find a niche that aligns with your interests, skills and career goals. Here is just a sample of art history careers that are predicted to have job growth through this decade.
What Are Some Common Art History Related Careers?
| Career | Job Growth (2021-2031) | Median Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Historian | 4% | $64,000 |
| Archivists/Curators | 12% | $50,000 |
| Professor | 12% | $80,000 |