Art History The University of New Mexico

Overview

The Art History programme at The University of New Mexico provides a rigorous academic environment for the study of visual arts across diverse cultures and eras. Students engage with the intellectual and cultural history of humanity through a curriculum designed to refine critical looking and analytical writing skills.

This course is structured to offer a firm grounding in global artistic traditions while encouraging students to explore the geographical and chronological breadth of the discipline. By examining the visual world critically, participants develop a sophisticated understanding of how art reflects and shapes societal values over time.

The curriculum is supported by a dedicated faculty with expertise spanning from ancient civilisations to contemporary movements.

Why Art History at The University of New Mexico?

The University of New Mexico offers a distinctive learning environment through its specialised research centres and facilities. Students benefit from the Center for Environmental Arts & Humanities and the Gale Memorial Lecture Series, which bring diverse scholarly perspectives to the campus community.

The institution provides access to various galleries and dedicated graduate facilities, ensuring that students have the resources necessary for high-level research. These spaces facilitate a hands-on approach to art historical study, allowing for direct engagement with visual materials and professional exhibition environments.

Furthermore, the programme is enriched by the Frederick Hammersley Visiting Artist scheme and partnerships with the UNM Art Museum. These connections provide students with unique opportunities to interact with visiting scholars and professionals, bridging the gap between academic study and the wider art world.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 34594 per year
• National fee: USD 34594 per year
• Local fee: USD 11445 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum covers a vast range of topics, allowing students to specialise in various cultural and historical areas. Modules may include:

• Art and Architecture of the Ancient Americas
• Medieval and Byzantine Art and Architecture
• Mediterranean Art
• Native North American Art
• Ibero-American Colonial Art and Architecture
• American Art
• African American Art
• Nineteenth-Century Latin American Art
• Modern and Contemporary Latin American Art
• Chicana/o and Latinx Art
• History of Prints
• History of Photography
• European and American Modern Art
• American and European Contemporary Art
• History of Design

Careers with Art History

Graduates of the programme are equipped with versatile skills in critical thinking and communication, preparing them for a wide array of professional paths. Many alumni pursue successful careers in teaching, where they share their expertise in educational settings ranging from schools to higher education.

The degree also serves as a strong foundation for roles within museums and galleries, including curation, conservation, and archive management. Additionally, the analytical nature of the course prepares students for careers in arts administration, where they manage cultural organisations and public art initiatives.

Beyond the traditional arts sector, the rigorous research training provided by the university enables graduates to enter diverse fields such as law and media. The ability to interpret complex visual information and construct persuasive arguments is highly valued across numerous professional industries globally.