Master's in Art History
A master’s in art history is perfect for students who wish to cultivate a deep understanding of the ways in which art and aesthetics develop and affect individuals and societies. Students have the option of pursuing a museum studies concentration within the program. You'll work closely with professors and internationally recognized visiting artists, curators and scholars. You'll also take part in scholarly research on your topic of choice. A wealth of class options will allow you the flexibility necessary to find what moves you, whether that means delving into the connections between art and technology or focusing on a specific cultural sphere or movement.
While we offer courses in most areas of world art, the program has a special emphasis on the arts of Europe, the Americas and Islamic art. Through official partnerships with the Denver Art Museum, the Clyfford Still Museum and the Western Center for Conservation of Fine Arts, you'll gain hands-on experience as an art historian. Our graduate community also works with emerging and established artists through the University of Denver's Vicki Myhren Gallery and the Madden Museum of Fine Art.
11:1 Student Teacher Ratio Receive individual instruction and mentorship from faculty who are available to their students. Build lifelong relationships while you learn alongside your close knit community of peers.
7 Local Museum Partnerships The Mile High City boasts some of the best art collections in the country. Each year we place 10-12 grad students in local and national internships where they can hone their skills and gain professional experience.
90% Receive Funding Typically, our students receive partial funding, including merit-based scholarships. Limited work opportunities may also be available through the University of Denver's own Vicki Myhren Gallery.
Why a Master's in Art History at DU?
Official Partnership with the Denver Art Museum
Our strong presence within the Denver art scene and partnerships with many local arts institutions enable our students to gain valuable, hands-on experience that prepares them for a successful career in the art world.
Meaningful and Enduring Faculty Mentorship
Small classes taught by faculty members, curators and professionals in the field give students a variety of professional contacts and pave the way for students to develop strong, lasting relationships with their faculty, mentors and peers.
Internship and Networking Opportunities
Our many opportunities for internships and networking within the local Denver art scene allow students to customize their DU experience and tailor their learning to best complement their career goals and aspirations.
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DU Students Converse with Ancient Mesoamerican Art in Davis Gallery Exhibit
Barofsky, who received a DU art history travel grant to study artistic traditions in Western Mesoamerica, curated the exhibit that features 1,700-2,000-year-old ceramic art objects mostly from the Western coast of Mexico.
When Sydney Barofsky (MA ’23) saw the call for exhibition proposals by DU’s newly opened Davis Gallery last winter, they seized the opportunity to share their passion for Mesoamerican ceramics.
“I thought, if artists back then and there could talk, what would they say?” Barofsky explained. “And if American art students could talk back by creating an artistic response, what would they say?”