Career Paths
Where an Art History Degree Can Take You
Undergraduates who study Art History at UNC Asheville foster a deep understanding of the visual culture and historical context that shape artistic expression. Students build strong analytical, research, and communication skills that prepare them to think critically, engage thoughtfully with the world around them, and pursue a wide range of opportunities.
Median annual wage for Archivists, Curators, and Museum Workers
according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
job openings are projected each year, on average for an Archivist, Curator, or Museum Worker
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
faster growth than the average of all occupations from 2023 to 2033
projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Alumni Spotlight
Larkin Ford spent his formative years in rural North Carolina and earned his BFA degree at UNC Asheville before relocating to Atlanta to pursue his MFA at Georgia State University. In his grotesque figurative depictions of rural Southern scenes, Fords confronts his problematic heritage through an absurdist lens, weaving personal experience into enigmatic narratives through drawings, paintings, and sculptures.
Iris Gottlieb is an illustrator, animator & author whose projects range from serious technical drawing to more flexible projects in which freedom is provided to transform unapproachable topics into easily digestible, fun(ny) and interesting information. Iris has and extensive established client list that includes; The New York Times, Smithsonian Magazine, Perigee/Penguin Random House Publishing, Dr. Marten’s, Ford, Sephora, Google, MTV, Consumer Reports, among many others. Iris’ most recent book Seeing Gender: An Illustrated Guide to Identity and Expression, is an of-the-moment investigation into how we express and understand the complexities of gender today and is available via Amazon.com
Career Preparation
Career Preparation
The Art History major at UNC Asheville provides students with a global and interdisciplinary understanding of visual culture, from ancient artifacts to contemporary works. Through critical analysis, research, and writing, students explore the cultural, political, and historical contexts of art across time and geography. The program prepares students for careers in museum curation, gallery work, cultural heritage preservation, and archival research, as well as graduate study in art history, museum studies, and related humanities fields. With opportunities for internships in museums and cultural institutions, students gain valuable hands-on experience in the stewardship and interpretation of art and material culture.
Ready for What's Next?
In the Bachelor of Arts in Art History program, experience a transformative and immersive education that prepares you for a meaningful career in the art world. Small class sizes, hands-on learning, and a holistic curriculum enrich your time at UNC Asheville and empower you to reach your full potential.