Course Overview

The History of Art program at Cornell University offers a comprehensive exploration of visual culture across time and geographies. Housed within the College of Arts and Sciences, the program emphasizes critical thinking, research, and interdisciplinary approaches to understanding art in its historical, social, and cultural contexts. Students engage with a wide range of artistic traditions, from ancient to contemporary, and develop skills in visual analysis and interpretation.

Unique Features

A distinguishing aspect of this program is its access to Cornell's extensive resources, including the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art, which serves as a teaching and research hub with a diverse collection of over 35,000 works. The program also benefits from proximity to major cultural institutions through partnerships and study opportunities. Students can participate in curatorial projects, internships, and international study programs to enhance their practical experience.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the History of Art program are well-prepared for careers in museums, galleries, academia, and cultural organizations. The curriculum fosters skills in research, writing, and critical analysis, which are transferable to various professional fields such as publishing, arts administration, and education.

Key Faculty and Staff

The department includes distinguished faculty with expertise in diverse areas such as Renaissance art, modern and contemporary art, and non-Western traditions. Faculty members are often involved in curatorial projects and publish extensively, contributing to the program's strong academic reputation.

Facilities and Partnerships

Students have access to the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art, which offers hands-on learning opportunities through exhibitions and collections. Additionally, Cornell's library system, including the Fine Arts Library, provides extensive resources for art historical research. Partnerships with cultural institutions in nearby cities further enrich the student experience through internships and collaborative projects.