M.A. in Art History, Pathway - 1 Semester

Washington, D.C.

INTAKE: Jan, May & Aug

Program Overview

The M.A. in Art History program at American University in Washington D.C. provides students with a rich and immersive academic experience in the study of visual culture, art theory, and historical context. The M.A. in Art History program at American University Washington D.C. offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education in the study of art and visual culture. With its diverse curriculum, hands-on experiences, and emphasis on critical thinking and research skills, the program prepares students for careers in museums, galleries, academia, cultural institutions, publishing, arts administration, and other fields related to the arts and humanities.

Curriculum:

Foundational Courses: The program begins with foundational courses that introduce students to key concepts, methodologies, and approaches in art history. Students explore topics such as art theory, research methods, and critical analysis, gaining a solid theoretical framework for the study of art across different periods, regions, and cultures.
Survey of Art History: Students engage in a comprehensive survey of art history, covering major movements, styles, and artists from antiquity to the present day. They study the evolution of art forms, techniques, and themes, examining how art reflects and shapes cultural, social, and political contexts. The survey courses provide students with a broad understanding of the global history of art and its significance in human civilization.
Specialized Coursework: The program offers specialized coursework in various areas of art history, allowing students to focus on specific periods, regions, or themes of interest. Courses may cover topics such as Renaissance art, modern and contemporary art, Asian art, Islamic art, African art, Latin American art, or gender and sexuality in art. Students have the flexibility to tailor their curriculum to their academic and career goals.
Seminar Courses: Seminar courses provide students with opportunities for in-depth exploration and discussion of specific topics or research areas within art history. Students engage in critical analysis of primary sources, scholarly literature, and art objects, developing advanced research and writing skills. Seminars foster intellectual exchange and collaboration among students and faculty, enriching the academic experience.
Museum Studies and Curatorial Practices: The program may include coursework in museum studies and curatorial practices, offering students insights into museum operations, exhibition design, collection management, and cultural heritage preservation. Students learn about the role of museums in society, ethical considerations in museum practices, and strategies for engaging diverse audiences with art and cultural artifacts.
Interdisciplinary Approaches: American University encourages interdisciplinary approaches to the study of art history, integrating perspectives from fields such as anthropology, sociology, literature, philosophy, and cultural studies. Students explore connections between art and other disciplines, gaining a holistic understanding of art as a cultural and social phenomenon.
Fieldwork and Internship Opportunities: The program provides fieldwork and internship opportunities that allow students to gain practical experience in the art world. Students may intern at museums, galleries, cultural institutions, or art organizations, gaining hands-on experience in curatorial work, education programming, archival research, or arts administration. Fieldwork and internships provide valuable professional development and networking opportunities.
Research and Thesis: As a culminating experience, students may undertake a research project or thesis under the guidance of faculty mentors. They conduct original research, analyze primary sources, and contribute new insights to the field of art history. The thesis allows students to demonstrate their research skills, critical thinking abilities, and mastery of subject matter, preparing them for further academic study or professional advancement.
Study Abroad Programs: American University offers study abroad programs that allow students to immerse themselves in different cultural and artistic contexts around the world. Study abroad experiences provide students with opportunities to study art in its original cultural and historical settings, broaden their perspectives, and deepen their understanding of global art practices and traditions.
Professional Development and Career Support: The program provides professional development resources and career support to help students prepare for careers in art history and related fields. Career services, workshops, and networking events assist students in exploring career options, developing job search strategies, and building professional connections in the art world. Alumni networks and mentorship programs offer ongoing support and guidance to students as they transition into their careers.

Location

Washington, D.C.

Score

IELTS: 6.5

Tuition Fee

USD 23064

Entry requirements for Postgraduate programs

Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate students applying to American University are expected to demonstrate strong academic qualifications in their previous studies. While specific requirements may vary depending on the program, applicants typically need to hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution. The academic qualifications requirement generally falls within the range of 83% to 86%, depending on the program and the competitiveness of the applicant pool.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall band score of 6.5 is required with no band less than 6.
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): The minimum TOEFL iBT (internet-based test) score 80 with no band less than 17 is required.
- PTE (Pearson Test of English): The minimum PTE Academic score required is 55 with no band less than 50.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): The minimum DET score of 115 is required with no sub-score below 105.

American University (AU) in Washington D.C., USA, is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion by providing financial assistance to international students through various scholarship programs. These scholarships are designed to attract top talent from around the world and make an American University education more accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.

Global Leader Scholarship: The Global Leader Scholarship at American University is a merit-based award offered to international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. This prestigious scholarship covers full tuition, room, and board for the duration of the student's undergraduate studies at AU.

International Peace Scholarship: The International Peace Scholarship is awarded to international students who have a strong academic record and a demonstrated commitment to promoting peace, justice, and social change. This scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible students enrolled in undergraduate programs at American University.

AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship: The AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is awarded to outstanding international students who have overcome significant obstacles and challenges to pursue their education and demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to serving their communities. This scholarship covers full tuition, room, and board for the duration of the student's undergraduate studies at AU.

AU International Merit Scholarship: The AU International Merit Scholarship is awarded to international students with exceptional academic achievements and strong leadership qualities. This merit-based scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible undergraduate students enrolled at American University.

AU Dean's Scholarship for International Students: The AU Dean's Scholarship for International Students is awarded to academically talented international students who demonstrate financial need and have a strong commitment to academic excellence. This scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible undergraduate students at AU.

AU Transfer Merit Scholarship for International Students: The AU Transfer Merit Scholarship for International Students is awarded to outstanding transfer students from international institutions who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and leadership potential. This merit-based scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible undergraduate transfer students at American University.

AU Presidential Scholarship for International Students: The AU Presidential Scholarship for International Students is awarded to top-performing international students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievements, leadership abilities, and a commitment to service. This prestigious scholarship covers full tuition for eligible undergraduate students at AU.

These scholarships for international students at American University reflect the university's commitment to academic excellence, diversity, and global engagement. By providing financial assistance and support to talented and deserving students from around the world, American University seeks to foster a diverse and inclusive campus community and prepare students to become global leaders and change-makers in their respective fields. International students interested in applying for scholarships at American University should review the eligibility criteria and application requirements on the university's official website and contact the Office of Admissions for further assistance.

Graduating from the M.A. in Art History program at American University in Washington D.C. opens up a wide range of career opportunities in the fields of art, culture, education, and beyond. The M.A. in Art History program at American University Washington D.C. prepares graduates for diverse and rewarding careers in the fields of art, culture, education, and beyond. With its interdisciplinary curriculum, hands-on experiences, and emphasis on critical thinking and research skills, the program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and professional network needed to succeed in the dynamic and evolving world of art and cultural heritage.

Museum Curator: Graduates may pursue careers as museum curators, working in art museums, galleries, or cultural institutions. They are responsible for acquiring, preserving, and interpreting artworks, planning exhibitions, conducting research, and engaging with the public. Museum curators play a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage, promoting artistic expression, and educating audiences about art history.
Art Gallery Director: Graduates may work as art gallery directors, managing commercial galleries, nonprofit art spaces, or university galleries. They oversee gallery operations, curate exhibitions, promote artists and artworks, and cultivate relationships with collectors, artists, and patrons. Gallery directors play a key role in promoting contemporary art, supporting emerging artists, and fostering artistic dialogue within the community.
Art Historian/Researcher: Graduates may pursue careers as art historians or researchers, conducting scholarly research, publishing academic articles, and contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the field of art history. They may work in academia, research institutions, museums, or publishing houses, specializing in specific periods, regions, or themes in art history.
Arts Educator: Graduates may work as arts educators, teaching art history courses at colleges, universities, secondary schools, or community organizations. They design curriculum, lead classroom discussions, organize educational programs, and mentor students in their academic and professional development. Arts educators inspire future generations of art enthusiasts, fostering appreciation for art and critical thinking skills.
Cultural Heritage Manager: Graduates may pursue careers in cultural heritage management, working for government agencies, nonprofit organizations, or international institutions. They are involved in the preservation, conservation, and interpretation of cultural artifacts, monuments, and historic sites. Cultural heritage managers promote cultural diversity, heritage tourism, and sustainable development while safeguarding cultural resources for future generations.
Art Appraiser/Conservator: Graduates may specialize in art appraisal or conservation, assessing the value of artworks or preserving them for posterity. Art appraisers evaluate artworks for insurance, estate planning, or sales purposes, using their expertise in art history and market trends. Art conservators employ scientific techniques to repair and preserve artworks, ensuring their longevity and integrity.
Arts Administrator: Graduates may work in arts administration roles, managing arts organizations, foundations, or government arts agencies. They oversee budgets, fundraising, marketing, and program development, ensuring the smooth operation of cultural institutions and the promotion of artistic initiatives. Arts administrators play a vital role in supporting artists, fostering creativity, and enriching communities through the arts.
Art Critic/Journalist: Graduates may pursue careers as art critics or journalists, writing reviews, articles, or essays on art exhibitions, artists, and art trends. They contribute to newspapers, magazines, websites, or blogs, providing insightful commentary and analysis on the contemporary art scene. Art critics and journalists shape public discourse, inform audiences, and advocate for the arts in society.
Arts Entrepreneur: Graduates may explore entrepreneurial ventures in the arts, launching startups, galleries, or creative businesses. They may specialize in art consultancy, art publishing, art marketing, or art sales, leveraging their knowledge of art history and their passion for the arts to create innovative and sustainable business models.
Public Relations/Marketing Specialist: Graduates may work in public relations or marketing roles for arts organizations, promoting exhibitions, events, and cultural initiatives to the public. They develop marketing strategies, manage media relations, and engage with stakeholders to increase awareness and support for the arts. Public relations and marketing specialists play a vital role in cultivating audiences and fostering community engagement with the arts.

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