B.A. in Art History

The Bachelor of Arts in Art History at the University of Nebraska provides students with a comprehensive understanding of art from various historical periods and cultural contexts. This program is designed to cultivate a deep appreciation for artistic expression and the role of art in society. Students engage in the study of significant artworks, artists, and art movements, and are encouraged to develop critical thinking and analytical skills essential for interpreting visual culture.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the B.A. in Art History encompasses a broad range of courses that cover Western and non-Western art traditions. Core courses typically include Introduction to Art History, Art of the Ancient World, Renaissance Art, Modern Art, and various thematic or regional studies. Additionally, students have the opportunity to take electives that align with their interests, such as contemporary art, museum studies, and digital art history. The program also emphasizes research methods, visual analysis, and writing skills, preparing students for graduate studies or careers in the arts.

Research Focus: Research in the B.A. in Art History program at the University of Nebraska is centered on understanding and interpreting art across different eras and cultures. Students engage in scholarly research projects that explore diverse topics, from classical antiquity to contemporary art movements. Faculty members are involved in cutting-edge research, contributing to the academic discourse on art history and providing mentorship to students pursuing their own research interests.

Industry Engagement: The University of Nebraska's Art History program actively collaborates with museums, galleries, and cultural institutions, providing students with practical experience and professional networking opportunities. Internships and partnerships with local and national art organizations enable students to gain hands-on experience in curatorial work, gallery management, and arts administration. These industry connections are instrumental in helping students transition into careers in the art world.

Global Perspective: The program emphasizes a global perspective by incorporating art from various cultures and regions into its curriculum. Students explore artistic traditions from around the world, gaining an understanding of how different societies express their values and histories through art. This international approach fosters a broader appreciation for global art practices and prepares students to engage with diverse artistic and cultural contexts.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Application Fee: $45

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 61 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 44 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 95.

The University of Nebraska - Kearney (UNK) offers various scholarships and financial aid options to international students to help them pursue their education. Scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden of studying abroad. 

UNK International Merit Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to academically talented international students. Awards are based on academic performance, including GPA and standardized test scores.

UNK World Citizen Scholarship: This scholarship is designed to recognize international students who have demonstrated a promoting cultural diversity and global awareness. Applicants must submit an essay detailing their contributions to cultural diversity and their future goals related to global understanding.

Athletic Scholarships: UNK offers athletic scholarships for students who excel in sports. International students who are talented athletes may be eligible for these scholarships.

External Scholarships: International students can explore external scholarship opportunities, such as government scholarships, private foundations, and international organizations. UNK's International Student Services office may provide guidance on external scholarship opportunities.

Financial Aid and On-Campus Employment: International students may also explore part-time on-campus employment opportunities to help cover living expenses. UNK's Financial Aid office can provide information on work-study programs and financial aid options.

Exchange Programs: UNK participates in various exchange programs with partner universities. These programs may offer financial benefits and unique cultural experiences.

Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at UNK offer scholarships to students majoring in specific fields of study. Students should inquire with their respective departments about available scholarships.

It's important to note that scholarship eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and award amounts can vary.

Graduates with a B.A. in Art History from the University of Nebraska have a diverse array of career paths available to them. The program's emphasis on analytical and research skills, combined with a comprehensive understanding of art and its historical contexts, prepares students for various roles in the art and cultural sectors.

Museum and Gallery Curator: Many graduates pursue careers as curators, managing and organizing art collections in museums and galleries. They are responsible for selecting and exhibiting artworks, conducting research, and providing educational programs to the public.

Art Conservator/Restorer: Some students choose to specialize in the preservation and restoration of artworks. This role involves working to maintain and repair art pieces, ensuring their longevity for future generations.

Art Historian: Graduates may become art historians, engaging in academic research, writing, and teaching about art history. This career often involves working at universities, research institutions, or publishing scholarly articles and books.

Cultural Resource Manager: This role involves managing and protecting cultural heritage sites and artifacts. Cultural resource managers work with organizations to ensure the preservation of historical and cultural assets.

Gallery Manager: A gallery manager oversees the day-to-day operations of art galleries, including managing exhibitions, coordinating events, and engaging with artists and clients.

Art Auction Specialist: Graduates can work in art auction houses, where they assist in appraising, auctioning, and selling artworks. This role requires a strong understanding of art valuation and market trends.

Art Consultant: Art consultants advise individuals or organizations on art purchases, collections management, and investment. They use their expertise to help clients build and maintain valuable art collections.

Art Educator: Those interested in teaching can pursue careers as art educators, teaching art history at various educational levels, from K-12 schools to higher education institutions.

Arts Administration: Graduates may work in arts administration, managing arts organizations, coordinating events, and handling administrative tasks related to arts programming and funding.

Art Critic/Journalist: Some graduates become art critics or journalists, writing reviews and articles about art exhibitions, trends, and artists for publications and media outlets.