BA in Art History in Rochester United States | University of Rochester

The Department of Art and Art History fosters comprehensive learning in both the practice and academic study of visual arts. Students may pursue majors, minors, or course clusters in either art history or studio arts.
At Rochester, we cultivate technically skilled artists with deep cultural awareness. Our students learn from distinguished faculty members who actively contribute to Rochester's art scene and the global artistic community.
Our department stands out for its focus on visual culture rather than conventional art history. Course offerings span from ancient to contemporary art, including specialized studies in photography and architecture. The visual studies program examines cultural imagery, expanding beyond traditional artistic boundaries through thematic exploration. We bridge theory and application via internships, international study programs, and engagement with Rochester's thriving arts community.
Alumni from our department enter diverse professional fields and graduate programs—ranging from graphic design and education to historic conservation and legal professions, independent artistry to advisory roles. Essentially, our curriculum develops critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and strong communication and analytical abilities—skills applicable to all life pursuits.
Art history majors can tailor their studies through multiple pathways aligned with personal interests and professional aspirations.
These flexible frameworks accommodate different approaches to exploring art and visual culture, enabling students to craft personalized majors by integrating cross-disciplinary courses within our department's structure.