As art historians in-training, students explore why culturally significant objects came to exist, what purpose they served, and how they continue to captivate us. By studying human expression through an engagement with culturally significant objects, images, and ideas, artists and historians document the changing world.

Beyond the Classroom

Art students have unique opportunities to gain hands-on, practical experience for a future career in the art world. Faculty assist students in handling and installing artworks, learning and expanding research skills, or improving critical analysis and essay-writing abilities.  

Western Art Galleries

Students play an active role in the operations of Western’s three galleries, including the Western Gallery and two student run galleries — the Viking Union and B galleries. 

Research

Art Faculty encourage students to explore the academic world through research assistantships — an invaluable experience for students interested in pursuing a graduate degree in the field.

Internships

While in the department, students have a chance to do internships with local businesses, learning about how to employ their burgeoning skills in various art-related fields.

Study Abroad

The Department of Art offers many opportunities to travel abroad and domestically. Students participate in unique, life-changing encounters with art and art history.

Careers and Graduate Studies

A degree in Art History from Western Washington University prepares students for a future as a teacher, museum educator, gallery curator, visual resource librarian, art critic, scholar, and other careers that require creative problem solving and knowledge of visual language.

Western Art alumni have gone on to pursue their passions, including: 

• Robert McCauley: National Endowment for the Arts fellowship recipient and professional painter
• Eugenie Tung: head teacher for the Joan Mitchell Foundation Education Program
• Jim Goldberg: author of seven books, National Endowment for the Arts and Guggenheim Fellowship recipient, and professional photographer
• Virginia Troy: Associate professor of Art History at Berry College

Sample Careers

• Art Consultant
• Curator
• Gallery or Museum Director
• Art Critic
• Architectural Conservator
• Art Dealer
• Art Historian
• Researcher
• Visual Resource Librarian
• Arts Administrator
• Museum Educator