Art History Major
Table of Contents
What is an art history major?
For centuries, the work of artists has reflected the world in which they lived and connected us to historical moments. Art history is the study of objects to understand how they reflect and shape their historical context. Art history majors are encouraged to develop visual literacy and critical thinking about the world and to understand how objects create meaning. An art history degree is a Bachelor of Arts degree awarded after the completion of a selection of courses from a range of topics.
Why study art history at Furman?
Offering bachelor’s degrees in both studio art and art history, the art department is a vibrant collaborative environment that encourages creative innovation, entrepreneurship and reflection. We are focused on developing interdisciplinary creative thinkers and problem-solvers who are adaptable and successful in their lives outside of Furman. Our primary goal is to support, encourage and mentor students through their educational pathways while celebrating the arts. Take your first steps by contacting admissions or reading more about how to apply.
How will you learn?
Our research-heavy art history program trains students to be strong writers and careful observers. The faculty-to-student ratio provides attention and collaboration unavailable at larger schools. Our study-away programs allow students to examine international art and architecture in person. Most courses include research, and our faculty encourages undergraduates to participate in research projects, including those available through our Summer Internship Fellowships. Plan a visit to Furman’s beautiful campus or begin your application .
Career opportunities for art history majors
At Furman, you can tailor your degree to prepare you for any job in the arts. Because our art history program is built on a strong foundation in the liberal arts and sciences, our alumni are highly coveted and recruited into respected graduate programs.
Along with those who become working artists, many graduates have found success in fields such as:
- Museum and cultural institutions
- Arts administration
- Creative entrepreneurship
- Art direction and graphic design
- Brand strategy
- Interior design
- UX design
- Historic preservation
- Content management
- Museum and gallery operations
- Public relations and marketing
- Commercial photography
- Education
Courses you may take as an art history major
Art History Major FAQ
A degree in art history from Furman will prepare you for a wide range of careers. Along with visual literacy and a greater ability to relate to the world around you, you will gain skills in writing, research and project management. Furman’s art history alumni are valued and recruited into respected graduate programs, due to the program’s strong foundation in the liberal arts and sciences.
Graduates are well prepared for financially rewarding, creatively fulfilling careers. Along with those who have become working artists, people with art degrees have found success in fields such as arts administration, entrepreneurship, brand strategy, historic preservation, UX design, museum operations, education and graphic design. They work as educators, graphic designers, curators and museum administrators, brand strategists and markers and historic preservationists.
The average wage for Furman art alumni is estimated at $41,300, with a potential wage of $76,500, according to a 2021 Emsi report.
The Art History B.A. program at Furman is a four-year program.
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66%alumni working full-time in the arts
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12:1student/faculty ratio
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90%students who have had an internship by graduation
What our students say
Our faculty
Your academic advisor will help you explore your passions, define your interests and achieve your goals. You’ll tap into a widespread network of community and alumni mentors to help you on your individual educational path – and to the opportunities at the end of it. Furman’s art faculty represents decades of study and real-world expertise.
Sarah Archino
Terri Bright
Kylie Fisher
Kevin Kao
Michael May
