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Are you interested in art history and the inner workings of museums? When studying museum studies with the School of Art, Art History and Museum Studies, you will be in one of the largest units in the school --- a dynamic center for the investigation of the history of art and museum practice.
The BA in art with a concentration in museum studies at ASU is one of the most rigorous programs in the U.S.
Through coursework and internships, students of museum studies explore art and museums, historical societies, archives, art galleries, public art programs, arts publishing and arts agencies. The program ensures that students are knowledgeable in art history and visual thinking as well as in museum practice. Upon completion, students possess critical-writing skills and foreign language ability (students must demonstrate an ability to read at least one foreign language).
The curriculum includes art history courses taught by faculty members of diverse specialties. Museum professionals and arts administrators teach specialized classes in their areas of expertise. Internships enable students to work directly with working arts professionals in their field of interest. In addition to art history and museum studies courses, students also pursue a range of other courses, which can include in business, marketing, fundraising, international tourism and nonprofit management.
At A Glance
Art (Museum Studies), BA
- Offered by: Herberger Institute for Design & the Arts
- Location: Tempe, Online
- Second Language requirement: Yes
- First Required Math Course: MAT 142 - College Mathematics
- Math Intensity: General
Required Courses
A major map outlines a major's critical requirements, courses, and optimal course sequence and aids students in remaining on track to graduation.
While circumstances vary between students and their paths towards graduation (utilizing placement testing to fulfill required math or foreign language courses, fulfilling multiple General Studies requirements with one course, etc.), completing the courses listed in a major map fulfills all of the requirements for graduation.
Application requirements
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements:
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Financial Aid
ASU has many financial aid options. Almost everyone, regardless
of income, can qualify for some form of financial aid. In fact,
more than 70 percent of all ASU students receive some form of
financial assistance every year.
Admission requirements
Students meeting the university requirements for admission may matriculate in the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts. Separate admission procedures and approvals are required for some programs within the college. Students must contact specific departments or schools for details.
Career outlook
Graduates with a bachelor's degree in museum studies find employment opportunities in museums (generally entry-level), art galleries, archives, historical societies, art-based organizations and agencies and with art publishers and publications.
A graduate degree is necessary for many professional positions. An MA in art history or museum studies prepares individuals to teach at the community college level, to practice and publish as an art critic or writer, to enhance one's own practice as an artist or to gain entry into museums, archives, historical societies, auction houses, publishing companies and academic presses, as well as to art libraries. The PhD is necessary for responsible administrative posts in museums and higher education and for employment as a university or college faculty member.
Example careers
Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions. Career examples include but are not limited to:
| Career | *growth | *median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Archivists | 14.3% | $51,760 |
| Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | 12% | $66,930 |
| Curators | 14% | $53,770 |
| Museum Technicians and Conservators | 12.4% | $40,670 |
| Agents and Business Managers of Artists, Performers, and Athletes | 4.7% | $64,940 |
* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
- Bright Outlook
- Green Occupation
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ASU students may accelerate their studies by earning a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in as little as five years (for some programs) or by earning a bachelor’s degree in 2.5 or 3 years.
Accelerated bachelor's and master's degree programs are designed for high-achieving undergraduate students who want the opportunity to combine undergraduate coursework with graduate coursework to accelerate completion of their master’s degree. These programs, featuring the same high-quality curriculum taught by ASU's world-renowned faculty, allow students to obtain both a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years.
Accelerated bachelor’s degree programs allow students to choose either a 2.5- or a 3-year path while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students can opt to fast-track their studies after acceptance into a participating program by connecting with their academic advisor.
What are ASU's Online Programs?
ASU Online offers programs like Art (Museum Studies) in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year.
More information on the program is available directly from ASU Online.