Art History

Art History is a rich academic discipline through which students learn about past and contemporary artistic traditions and practices that have shaped our world. The Art History concentration at WSU provides the critical tools to interpret works of art, architecture, print media, photography and all forms of visual culture. We prepare students for a wide range of careers, equipping them with analytical, creative thinking, communication, and organizational skills. Our courses are suitable for Art History majors and non-majors alike. Our campus in Midtown Detroit is just steps away from the Detroit Institute of Arts, allowing students to easily view original works of art.

My teachers at the graduate level did a really good job of always asking complicated questions about what we were reading. They made us think about it and talk about it. Most importantly, they gave us the confidence to talk about it. Having those discussions in class really gave me confidence that I didn't have before going into graduate school.

-Juana Williams, alumna and adjunct professor
Associate Curator of African American Art at the Detroit Institute of Arts

Career opportunities

  • Teaching/education
  • Publishing
  • Arts administration
  • Arts education
  • Historic preservation
  • Art library management
  • Journalism
  • Advertising
  • Gallery/museum curator
  • Exhibition installation
  • Art conservation

Degree programs

Spotlight

Facilities

Degrees

Undergraduate

  • BA Art History
  • BA Art History w/honors

Graduate

  • Master of Arts (MA)

Area coordinator