Bachelor's in Art - History of Art

Amherst College boasts a rich history and a strong tradition of producing influential leaders, scholars, and innovators. The college's academic philosophy centers on an open curriculum, allowing students the freedom to explore a broad range of disciplines and tailor their educational journey to their interests. With a low student-to-faculty ratio, Amherst emphasizes close mentorship, fostering meaningful connections between students and faculty. At Amherst, a vibrant intellectual community thrives, driven by a diverse student body hailing from various backgrounds and perspectives. The campus is characterized by a commitment to inclusivity and a culture that encourages dialogue, critical thinking, and the pursuit of knowledge. Beyond academics, Amherst offers a rich array of extracurricular activities, ensuring a holistic college experience. Whether engaging in groundbreaking research, participating in community service, or contributing to the arts, students at Amherst are equipped to make a positive impact on the world.

An intensive and structured engagement with the visual heritage of many cultures throughout the centuries, the history of art major requires not only the study of art history as a way to acquire deep and broad visual understanding, but also a self-conscious focus on the contexts and meanings of art. By encountering the architecture, painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, and material culture created within a variety of historical frameworks, students will deepen their understanding of political, religious, philosophical, aesthetic, and social currents that defined those times as well. As a consequence, students will face art and issues that challenge preconceptions of our own era. One of the strengths of our commitment to a liberal arts education at Amherst is that you can major or double-major in art history and go on to a career in a wide variety of areas. Our students have been double-majors in biology, chemistry, French and English, and they have gone on to med school, law school, business school, and any number of professions. Some of them have also become artists, art historians, and architects. Our program, which you can’t experience anywhere else in the college, intends to nourish the diversity of your interests and helps you discover a new intellectual framework that will forever support you in your later life.

Amherst College stands as a beacon of liberal arts education, known for its unwavering commitment to intellectual exploration and academic freedom. Distinctive in its embrace of an open curriculum, Amherst empowers students to shape their educational path by encouraging interdisciplinary studies and fostering an environment that champions curiosity and critical thinking. With a history dating back to the early 19th century, the college has cultivated a reputation for producing graduates who not only excel academically but also embody the values of diversity, inclusion, and a deep appreciation for the pursuit of knowledge. The close-knit community, coupled with a dedication to mentorship and a vibrant campus life, defines Amherst College as a preeminent institution dedicated to shaping well-rounded, thoughtful leaders of tomorrow.