Career Opportunities for Majors in Art History

Introduction

The academic approach to art history suggests that a culture's nature is best revealed by its art. Art historians apply that principle when comparing past eras in western history or when relating western forms of thought and feeling with those of other cultures. Art history programs offer students the means of immersing themselves in cultural and aesthetic issues.

Some students want to pursue careers as curators or archivists at the many museums and galleries across the country. Others, knowing they have an eye for art and design, but lacking the interest in pursuing a career as an artist, use art history to hone their intellectual abilities in art for careers in media, advertising, publishing, fashion or design. Another path for historians is art therapy, working with handicapped or disabled people. There is a trend toward providing additional training and certification for this specialty. Others move into careers in business, government and other non-profit organizations.

Many careers do not require a specific major but rather a wide range of demonstrated skills and accomplishments. Regardless of career choices, increasing one's marketability to employers through internships, responsible work experience, good grades and involvement in college activities is important. A bachelor's degree is sufficient for many entry level positions, but for advancement in an area of specialization, an advanced degree may be required.

A Sample of Related Occupations

Advertising/Sales/Marketing	Designer	Promotion/Production Assistant
Archivist	Editor	Public Relations Specialist
Art Appraiser	Educator	Researcher
Arts Administrator	Historic Preservation Specialist	Retail Buyer
Art Therapist	Media Buyer	Store Manager
Curator	Merchandise Display Coordinator	Textile Designer
	Photographer

Types of Employers

Private and Non-profit Organizations
Advertising Agencies	Media Organizations
Antique Dealers	Museums
Archives	Performing Arts Centers
Art Management Firms	Photographic Studios
Fashion Design Companies	Production Companies
Galleries	Public Relations Firms
Historic Preservation & Firms	Publishing Firms
Historical Societies	Non-Profit Organizations
Interior Design Firms	Restored Communities/Estates
Libraries	Theatre Companies
Magazines/Newspapers	Universities

Government Agencies
Arthur M. Sackler Gallery	National Archives & Records Administration
Cultural Affairs Agencies	National Endowment for the Arts
Department of Education	National Endowment for the Humanities
Department of Veterans Affairs	National Gallery of Art
Freer Gallery of Art	National Museum of African Art
Government Printing Office	National Museum of American Art
Hirshhorn Museum	National Museum of American History
Institute of Museum Services