BA Art History/Administrative Studies

In addition to a major in Art History alone, a major that combines Art History with Administrative Studies is offered. This major provides students with training in management and the history of art to allow pursuit of a variety of future career and education options. With this dual preparation, students are equipped to enter fields such as arts administration, advertising, art appraisal, architecture, art investment, and historic preservation. The management, public relations, information services, accounting, human resources, and finance areas of arts institutions such as museums, research institutes, historical societies, publishers, and galleries have comprehensive needs for individuals trained in good business practices. Students can also continue their education with advanced degrees in business, museum studies, or arts administration, as well as other professional and academic fields. The History of Art and Administrative Studies share an emphasis on the cultural and social institutions of human achievement, a connection that makes possible a major that enriches both art history and administrative studies. Business majors gain knowledge of the historical, political, and social bases of visual culture, while art history majors acquire the economic, political, and sociological background to become leaders in the business of arts institutions and in related fields.