Master of Arts in Art History

Art History – MA5146

School of Art + Design
528 Seigfred Hall
Ohio University
Athens, Ohio 45701
740.593.4288
ArtGrad@ohio.edu

Delivery Mode: Athens Campus

Term of Entry: Fall

Program Overview

The Art History area promotes individual growth in visual intelligence, analytical rigor, and scholarly creativity in preparation for advanced academic study and practical work in the field.

The Master of Arts in Art History is a two-year program in the School of Art + Design. As students develop interpretive and research skills, they learn to express their ideas in an increasingly professional manner through papers and oral presentations. Students are encouraged to take advantage of opportunities offered to study art in context through Ohio University international programs, participate in museum internships, and present work at student symposia. Coursework includes a sequence of art history courses and seminars at the advanced level, directed electives, and proof of reading competency in a language approved by the faculty.

Upon entry to the program in Art History, the student will be assigned an advisor in the area alongside two additional committee members. A Progress/Candidacy review will take place in the second semester for full-time graduate students and the fourth semester for part-time graduate students. The approval of a thesis topic by the thesis committee, including written approval by the advisor, will be required before the student can register for thesis credits. This thesis topic proposal will be submitted by the student in their third term and a review will occur with their committee. The student will then develop their full, written thesis in consultation with their committee, leading to an Oral Thesis Defense in their final semester. A normal, full-time academic load is a minimum of 10 credit hours per semester and progress toward the degree is guided by the student’s graduate review committee members to the successful completion of 40 credit hours over the course of four semesters (two years).

Program Learning Outcomes

• Students will be able to demonstrate a global knowledge of visual and material cultural production from prehistory through the contemporary art world. 
• Students will be able to identify the cultural and historical position of art and architecture based on their knowledge of styles, technological development, and socio-economic conditions.
• Students will be conversant with different methods of the study of art and will be able to employ those methods when writing about art.
• Students will be able to research and write an original thesis or article/essay/book for publication.
• Students will be able to orally defend their thesis and their arguments based on their knowledge of the history of art and art historical methodologies. 

Opportunities for Graduates

After completing the M.A. in Art History, students are prepared to enter programs in Doctoral studies or to seek career paths in fields related to art history. Alumni of the Ohio University Art History program are currently employed as college professors, curators, museum administrators, and gallerists.

Further Information

Link to Program: https://www.ohio.edu/fine-arts/art/graduate/art-history

Admission Requirements

Admission to the M.A. program requires a Bachelor of Art (B.A.) or equivalent degree. Art History will consider appropriate transfer credits of up to 9 credit hours. Within the online application to Ohio University, applicants should upload their CV/resume, a writing sample (10-15 pages, plus bibliography and notes), a professional goals statement, transcripts, and a list of three professional references with contact information. These references will automatically receive requests for letters of recommendation via the online system. Contact ArtGrad@ohio.edu for questions about the application process.

International Students

This program permits full-time enrollment in residence at Ohio University, and an I-20 may be issued based on admission to this program.

Graduation Requirements

Complete a minimum of 40 credit hours as follows: