Program Overview: The art history area promotes individual growth in visual intelligence, analytical rigor, and scholarly creativity in preparation for advanced academic study and practical work in the field. As students develop interpretive and research skills, they learn to express their ideas in an increasingly professional manner through papers and oral presentations. Students are encouraged to take advantage of opportunities offered to study art in context through Ohio University international programs, participate in museum internships, and present work at student symposia.   The Master of Arts in art history is a two-year program in the School of Art. Coursework includes a sequence of art history courses and seminars at the advanced level, directed electives, and proof of reading competency in a language approved by the faculty. Upon entry to the program in art history, a student will be assigned an advisor in the area, and by the end of the third week of the second year, one thesis proposal will be submitted to the student’s thesis committee members, leading to the completion of a 40 credit-hour degree.  

Credit-Hour Requirements Summary:

21 credits in art history (7 courses)
9 credits in directed electives (3 courses)
Foreign language competency 

30 minimum course credits
10 thesis credits

40 total credit hours  

Students are required to select directed electives in consultation with their advisor. Proof of reading competency in a language approved by the faculty can be achieved in a couple of ways: standard language examinations or the equivalent of one year’s coursework without credit may be used. The language requirement should be completed by the end of the 4th semester of full-time study. The program concludes with the submission of a thesis (approved by the advisor) that demonstrates scholarly research and a final review or oral defense of the thesis directed by the student’s review committee.

Admissions Policy: No requirements beyond University admission requirements.

Change Policy: No selective or limited admission requirements.

Transfer Policy: No requirements beyond University admission requirements.

Opportunities: After completing the M.A., students are prepared to enter programs in Doctoral studies or to seek career paths in fields related to art history. The art history department’s alumni are currently directors of galleries and museums, and professors and deans of Fine Arts schools.