The Master of Arts in Art History prepares students with the course work, language skills, and research experience needed for further graduate study or work in arts organizations and educational settings. The curriculum is structured to provide both breadth and depth of inquiry through a variety of approaches to art history and, more broadly, visual studies. We recommend that courses be broadly selected to take full advantage of the multiple approaches, expertise, and insights of the faculty.
The UK SA/VS Art History program is predominately devoted to modern and contemporary art and visual culture, viewed from both Western and non-Western perspectives. Faculty specialize in contemporary, modern, 19th-century European, Asian, and African art and visual culture as well as ancient Roman/early Christian/early medieval art and visual culture. The relatively small size of the M.A. program, the richness of available resources, and the dedication of its faculty enable students to tailor their program of study to particular needs while simultaneously attaining a strong general grounding in the discipline. Campus resources include the Lucille C. Little Fine Arts Library and Learning Center, the Special Collections of the M. I. King Library, the W.T. Young Library, the UK Art Museum, the School of Art & Visual Studies’ Visual Resources Office, and the Bolivar Art Gallery.
Experience suggests that applicants from a wide variety of educational backgrounds may earn a MA degree in Art History. It is recommended that those without an undergraduate art history major consult with the art history graduate advisor before applying. Depending on one’s prior preparation, some students may be required to take selected preparatory courses that will not count toward the graduate degree requirements.
Applicants must meet the Graduate School admission requirements.
College of Fine Arts
Art & Visual Studies Building
236 Bolivar Street
Lexington, KY 40506-0090
859-257-8151
