Students?will become familiar with art history theory, methods of analysis and art criticism. In addition, they will gain valuable experience in writing and researching in the field of art history. It is also the mission of the art history program to educate students with a global perspective.

Art History majors and minors are encouraged to participate in summer internship experiences in museums, historic houses, and galleries, and to take advantage of the year-round JMU Studies Abroad programs. The art history program advocates interdisciplinary study in other humanistic disciplines and actively supports students who double major with other related fields. JMU art history faculty possess expertise in a wide variety of historical areas and enjoy working with students on independent studies, honors theses or exhibition projects.

Goals

The Bachelor of Arts in Art History offered by James Madison University is intended for students who wish to study the history of the visual arts, including the cultural and social context in which they were created. It is the mission of the Art History program to educate students with a global perspective on the arts. European and American art history is emphasized, coupled with opportunities to study selected areas of African, Asian and Meso- American Arts. Students majoring in art history develop a general knowledge of the principal monuments and artists of all major art periods.

What can I do with an Art History degree?

A degree in art history provides you with a diverse range of career opportunities.

Recent alumni have taken jobs at outstanding national museums including the National Gallery of Art, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Smithsonian Institution, and the Yale University Art Gallery.

Other graduates work in private galleries, historic homes, and auction houses.?Some teach at universities, both here and abroad, or act as corporate art consultants.

Alumni have pursued graduate study in art history at high-ranking programs including Bard Institute of Decorative Arts, Cambridge University (England), Emory University, Georgetown University, Goldsmith's College (Univ. of London), Syracuse University, University of California Los Angeles, University of Texas at Austin, University of South Carolina, University of Virginia, University of Florida, and Yale University.