The Academy’s art history school provides specialized academic study that pairs art historical theory and criticism with the study of the fine and applied arts. This unique pairing presented in a single-study academic environment ensures that our graduates develop and acquire skills necessary for employment in the arts sector and elsewhere. The Art History programs are designed around the study of art, the artist and their techniques, building a well-rounded education of the art historical narrative through the material presented in art history, studio, and foreign language courses.
Explore and discuss art and artistic methods at Academy of Art University’s School of Art History, becoming part of the academic art historical narrative with your contribution to the field.
As a graduate of our Art History school, you will be a passionate and determined thinker. You will challenge people’s understanding of past cultures and discuss art and architecture through their place in our own historical narrative. We will train you to marry the historical and material study of art through an understanding of artists, periods, and styles—by learning about the past to make it come alive in the present.
Lorenzo Ghiberti’s “Gates of Paradise” (1425-1452) stands as an achievement of the creativity and brilliance of the Florentine imagination during the early days of the Italian Renaissance. This video examines the narrative and stylistic charm of each panel as seen in the copy at Grace Cathedral in San Francisco. Being surrounded by art such as this is just one of the many perks of studying art history in San Francisco.
Your dream is within reach. Follow your heart and get started on the career of your dreams.
Access to the leading scholars and scholarship is essential for preparing students for employment in the art historical or related field. This comes in the form of online resource guides that connect you to JSTOR, Oxford Art and other leading scholarly journals and publications.
Our faculty makes the difference. They are art history industry veterans who help bridge the needs of the art history industry with the curriculum and experience our students get.
One of the best ways to learn about the world is to see the world. As we work together to turn your passion for art history into a rewarding career, we will delve into the numerous ways in which we can elevate your experience in class and beyond through our exciting Study Abroad opportunities.
As one of the top art and design schools in the country, Academy of Art University art history graduates have a range of opportunities to choose from. Our facilities, faculty, and hands-on learning approach are designed to provide you with the tools you need to succeed as a professional art historian.
Our revolutionary online courses provide the same rigorous education that we offer on campus with greater flexibility. Our online programs are purpose-built to deliver art and design courses. Study on your own time, at your own pace. Combine online and on-site classes.
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