Overview

The History of Art and Architecture at the University of California, Santa Barbara offers students a rigorous academic foundation in the study of human-made objects and environments. This programme encourages an appreciation for material culture while training undergraduates to analyse the production of art and buildings across diverse historical contexts.

Students engage with the works of great architects and artists from both the past and the contemporary world. By developing the ability to think critically about images and structures, participants gain a vital skill set for navigating today’s image-infused society. The curriculum explores how these visual elements influence politics, culture, and daily life.

Why History of Art and Architecture at the University of California, Santa Barbara?

The department provides a distinctive learning environment that integrates the study of history, philosophy, and environmental studies. Students benefit from a broad liberal arts education that encourages interdisciplinary thinking and a deep understanding of the human-made world. The university offers a unique setting for those interested in archaeology, classics, and anthropology.

Facilities and resources at the institution support extensive research into visual and material culture. Undergraduates are encouraged to visit the campus to experience the academic community firsthand. The programme is designed for those who seek a breadth of education, preparing them to understand the meaningful and beautiful aspects of human creation.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 14934 per year
National fee: USD 14934 per year
Local fee: USD 14934 per year

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

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Art history and visual culture
Global art history (Europe, Americas, Asia, Africa)
History of architecture and urbanism
Modern and contemporary art
Art theory and critical analysis
Museum and curatorial studies
Art and material culture
Interdisciplinary cultural studies
Research methods and academic writing
Advanced seminars and independent research

Careers with History of Art and Architecture

Graduates are equipped with a flexible liberal arts background that leads to diverse professional opportunities. Many students find direct employment within the arts sector, specifically in galleries and museums. The programme also provides a pathway for those interested in specialised fields such as art restoration and conservation.

For those aiming for academic or curatorial careers, the department offers a strong foundation for graduate study. Advanced roles in teaching at colleges or universities typically require further M.A. or Ph.D. qualifications. Graduates are well-prepared to pursue these higher degrees, often securing research or teaching assistantships during their postgraduate training.

Programme Structure

The teaching interests of the faculty are closely aligned with their research and form six clusters of expertise:

Art and Architecture of the Ancient and Medieval Worlds

Art and Architecture of the Early Modern World

Modern and Contemporary Art, Architecture, and Visual Culture

Architecture and Urbanism

Museum and Curatorial Studies

Theory and Criticism

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-23 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Santa Barbara, United States

Disciplines

Architecture History Art History View 1571 other Bachelors in History in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

3.4

3.0 GPA For California residents

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

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TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

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AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

The University of California sets slightly different criteria for applicants who are not California residents. If you are an out-of-state applicant, you must meet the same admission requirements as a California resident student.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

14934 USD / year

≈ 14934 USD / year
Out-of-State

14934 USD / year

≈ 14934 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

14934 USD / year

≈ 14934 USD / year

Living costs

Santa Barbara

United States

1640 - 2480 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for History of Art and Architecture.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Santa Barbara

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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