Art History

Overview

Art History

The Art History program fosters an understanding of art from prehistory to the current day in diverse civilizations around the globe. This program will also prepare students to transfer successfully to a baccalaureate program at the university level. The historical study of art, architecture and visual culture involves learning fundamental art history terminology and art techniques in order to analyze and communicate the social, religious, political, and aesthetic functions of art in society. Classes explore artistic creativity, compare how art has changed over time, and reflect on the challenges of the human condition. In the 21st century, which is saturated with visual images, the key skills of art history including close observation and analysis, creative and critical thinking, research and writing, will serve students in both their academic and professional careers.​

DEGREES & CERTIFICATES


Art History, Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T)
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CAREER INFO


The AA-T in Art History degree provides lower division major and general education preparation for students interested in transferring to a baccalaureate degree in this field. Students who pursue the B.A. in art history may continue to graduate school for M.A. or Ph.D. degrees or find careers in museums, auction houses, art galleries, art publications, libraries, and universities.

POTENTIAL JOBS

  • Appraiser
  • Archivist
  • Art Critic
  • Art Dealer
  • Art Editor
  • Art Librarian
  • Art Restorer
  • Art Technician
  • Art Writer
  • Arts Consultant
  • Auctioneer
  • Cataloguer
  • College Professor
  • Conservator
  • Cultural Arts Administrator
  • Curator
  • Gallery Assistant/Manager
  • High School Teacher
  • Historic Preservationist
  • Museum Administrator
  • Museum Educator
  • Museum Registrar
  • Program Director
  • Publisher
  • Researcher
  • State Art Agency Staff
To explore potential jobs in this field of study, we strongly urge you to visit LBCC Career Center. Working with a career counselor, we will assess your strengths, skills, interests, and accomplishments to help you identify internship opportunities and career goals that match your educational and professional needs.

FAQ

Do I need to take ART 1 before taking ART 2 or other art history courses?

No. Art history courses at LBCC do not have prerequisites. However, as an Art History major, it is helpful to learn about earlier art in order to understand its impact on later cultural and stylistic developments. 

Why is it recommended to take ENGL1 prior to or concurrent to taking Art History courses?

Because Art History classes involve analyzing visual materials and describing your findings in writing assignments, it is important to use the strategies and skills of conducting research, building an argument, and writing essays and research papers that use appropriate English and citation formats.

Where can I get an internship?

Many local museums, galleries, and arts organizations offer unpaid internships. Both the Getty Marrow Undergraduate Summer Internships and the L.A. County Arts Internships offer paid work opportunities for students at a variety of cultural institutions in the greater Long Beach/Los Angeles region. Each spring, L.A. County Arts holds an information session at LBCC about the internship program. Visit Art History Program Resources for links.