Best Online Art History Programs (2024)

Selecting the right school and online degree program in Art History involves careful consideration of various factors to ensure that your educational needs align with your career goals. Here are key elements to keep in mind:

• Accreditation: Verify that the institution holds regional or national accreditation. Accreditation ensures that the education provided meets certain quality standards and is recognized by employers and other educational institutions.

• Program Focus: Examine the curriculum to determine if it aligns with your specific interests within Art History. Some programs may emphasize contemporary art, while others might focus on historical periods, specific geographic areas, or curatorial practices.

• Faculty Credentials: Research the qualifications and expertise of the faculty members teaching the courses. Faculty with strong academic backgrounds and professional experience can significantly enhance your learning experience.

• Course Delivery Format: Consider the structure of the online program. Check if it offers synchronous (live) or asynchronous (on-demand) courses, and determine which format fits best with your schedule and learning preferences.

• Resources and Support: Investigate the resources available to online students, such as libraries, databases, and digital archives. Additionally, look for academic support services like tutoring, advising, and technical support.

• Reputation and Reviews: Look for rankings and reviews of the programs you are considering. Pay attention to student testimonials that can provide insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the institution.

• Internship and Networking Opportunities: Explore whether the program provides connections to internships, galleries, museums, or cultural institutions. Networking opportunities can be invaluable for building contacts in the field.

• Financial Aid and Scholarships: Review the financial assistance options available, including scholarships, grants, and loans. Understanding the total cost of attendance will help you make a more informed decision.

• Flexibility and Timeframe: Check if the program offers flexible scheduling options that allow you to balance your studies with personal or professional commitments. Also, look into the average time it takes to complete the degree to ensure it aligns with your timeline.

• Alumni Success: Research the career paths of alumni from the program. Knowing where graduates work and the positions they hold can give you a sense of the program’s effectiveness and its reputation in the industry.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can choose an online Art History program that best meets your educational needs and sets you up for success in your future career.

As you consider enrolling in an online Art History degree program, several resources and tools can significantly enhance your educational experience. Here’s a list to help you navigate your options and make informed decisions.

• University Websites: Start by visiting the websites of accredited institutions that offer online Art History degrees. Look for comprehensive details on program requirements, faculty qualifications, and course descriptions. Websites like The College Board can help you compare different programs.

• Online Course Platforms: Utilize platforms like Coursera and edX for introductory courses in Art History. These platforms often collaborate with top universities and can give you a taste of online learning and the subject matter before committing to a full degree program.

• Library Access: Check if your prospective online school offers access to digital library resources. Databases such as JSTOR or Artstor provide access to scholarly journals and a vast collection of images pertinent to art historical study.

• Adobe Creative Cloud: Familiarizing yourself with design software like Adobe Creative Cloud can be beneficial. Many art history programs integrate visual analysis with digital tools. Look into student discounts for these tools on the Adobe website.

• Academic Journals: Subscribe to journals such as the Art Journal, The Burlington Magazine, or The Art Bulletin. Many universities provide access to these journals for free through their library services. Engaging with current research can provide insights into contemporary discussions and methodologies in Art History.

• Networking Platforms: Join online communities and professional organizations such as the College Art Association (CAA) or the Association of Art Historians. These platforms offer networking opportunities, professional development resources, and academic conferences that could enrich your degree experience. Visit CAA for more information.

• Webinars and Online Workshops: Participate in webinars hosted by universities or art institutions. Many organizations offer free or low-cost online workshops that cover various aspects of art history, from specific movements and artists to contemporary art practice. Check out events on sites like Eventbrite to find relevant workshops.

• Financial Aid Resources: Research financial aid options through the Federal Student Aid website. Understanding grants, scholarships, and loans available for online learners can ease your financial burden.

• Student Support Services: Look into the student support services offered by your chosen institution, such as academic advising, tutoring, and mental health resources. Most online programs are equipped with dedicated staff to help students navigate their academic journey.

• Internship and Job Portals: Leverage resources like Idealist and Art Jobs to find internships and job opportunities in the art field. Hands-on experience is invaluable when studying art history.

These resources can help you maximize your online learning experience and prepare for a successful career in Art History.