BACHELOR OF ARTS IN ART HISTORY
The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art History at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) blends art historical study with the creative freedom of an interdisciplinary curriculum. Imagine being in an art history class, learning about Monet’s brushstrokes, then crossing the street to see the real thing at the Art Institute of Chicago, one of the world’s top museums. At SAIC, the museum is more than a nearby resource—it’s part of your campus.
The BA in Art History combines comprehensive art history coursework with the flexibility to explore across 18 departments. In your first year, you’ll complete the studio-intensive Contemporary Practices program and a two-part introductory Art History sequence, preparing you for advanced coursework in your second year. You’ll then focus on two geographic areas—Asia, Europe and America, or Southern Continents (Africa and Latin America)—and engage in research, theory, and methods courses. The program culminates in a senior thesis, a two-semester research project that allows in-depth exploration and collaboration with peers.
Studying art history at SAIC is hands-on. You’ll join a vibrant community of artists, scholars, and visiting contemporary artists. With the museum as your classroom and access to the Ryerson and Burnham Libraries, you’ll develop strong critical thinking, research, and writing skills while experiencing art firsthand.
OUTCOMES
Graduates are well-prepared for careers in museums, galleries, auction houses, arts journalism, publishing, or academia. The degree’s focus on research and writing, combined with internships and study abroad opportunities, equips students with the skills to succeed. SAIC alumni are known for their innovative approaches and critical engagement with art, making them sought after in creative and scholarly fields. For those ready to engage with art intellectually and creatively, the BA in Art History at SAIC offers a world-class education and a clear path to exciting careers in the arts.
A CURRICULUM DESIGNED BY YOU
One of SAIC’s most distinguishing features is our interdisciplinary curriculum. With us, you will not declare a major, but will have the creative freedom to customize your education among our 18 departments or concentrate in one single medium.
We recognize that successful 21st-century artists, designers, and scholars begin their work with ideas and research, adapting the appropriate media to best realize their visions.
saic.edu/baah Interested in Learning More?
Visit the undergraduate admissions website at saic.edu/ug or contact the undergraduate admissions office at 800.232.7242 or ugadmiss@saic.edu