What is art history?
Art History provides a humanistic foundation for understanding the visual arts. Emphasis is placed on the social, political, historical and religious contexts of art; analyzing the form and style of artworks is also stressed. Theoretical and critical literature on interpreting art is an important part of the field, with contributions often coming from fields such as history, anthropology, philosophy, archaeology, literature, philosophy, sociology and religious studies.

If I major in art history, what will I do after graduation?
A degree in art history will prepare you for a wide variety of careers in art and non-art related fields. As an art history major you will learn to think critically; to write persuasively; to plan and execute long term projects... skills that are highly desired among today's employers. The BA in Art History also provides excellent preparation for professional or graduate programs, including arts management, museum studies, historic preservation, conservation, journalism, law, business, and library or information sciences.

A degree in art history prepares you for an entry level position in the following art-related fields. Your skills will be transferrable to a host of other career possibilities as well.

  • art galleries
  • public art centers
  • art libraries
  • art buyers
  • art consultants
  • art publications
  • art auction houses
  • art museums
An M.A. in art history sometimes prepares the student for teaching in community or junior colleges, but a PhD is necessary for teaching and research positions in colleges and universities, and is increasingly required for museum work.

For more information about Art History at UNL, please contact Prof. Alison Stewart at astewart1@unl.edu.
Roman Mosaic discovered by UNL Professor Michael Hoff
A Roman mosaic uncovered by UNL Professor of Art History Michael Hoff's survey team in southern Turkey. The mosaic measures approximately 25x7 meters and served as the forecourt for the adjacent large bath. Hoff's team unearthed about 40 percent of the mosaic this summer and hopes to uncover the rest of the mosaic next summer.

Click here for information on the MA in Art History