The Department of Art and Art History at Georgetown University is a vibrant academic hub dedicated to the study, creation, and appreciation of visual arts and art history within a globally recognized Jesuit institution. Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., the department offers students unparalleled access to world-class museums, galleries, and cultural institutions, fostering a dynamic environment for artistic exploration and scholarly research. With a commitment to interdisciplinary learning, the department integrates studio art, art history, and critical theory, preparing students for careers in the arts, academia, and beyond. Whether you are an aspiring artist, a budding art historian, or simply passionate about the visual arts, Georgetown’s Department of Art and Art History provides a rigorous and enriching educational experience.

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Department of Art and Art History at Georgetown University: A Comprehensive Overview

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Academic Programs and Curriculum

The Department of Art and Art History at Georgetown University offers a diverse range of academic programs designed to cater to students with varying interests in the visual arts. The department provides both undergraduate and graduate degrees, including a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art History, a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Studio Art, and a Minor in Art History. For graduate students, the department offers a Master of Arts (MA) in Art and Museum Studies, which combines academic rigor with practical training in museum practices and curatorial studies.

The Art History program emphasizes a global perspective, covering a wide range of periods, cultures, and methodologies. Courses span from ancient to contemporary art, with specializations in European, American, African, Asian, and Latin American art. Students engage with primary sources, conduct original research, and develop critical thinking skills through seminars and independent studies. The program also encourages interdisciplinary approaches, allowing students to connect art history with fields such as history, literature, religion, and politics.

The Studio Art program focuses on the development of technical skills and creative expression across various media, including painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, and digital art. Students work closely with faculty members who are practicing artists, gaining hands-on experience in state-of-the-art facilities. The program emphasizes experimentation, conceptual development, and the integration of art theory with practice. Studio art majors are encouraged to participate in exhibitions and internships, providing real-world experience and professional networking opportunities.

The Art and Museum Studies MA program is designed for students interested in careers in museums, galleries, and cultural institutions. The program combines academic coursework with practical training, offering courses in museum management, curatorial practices, conservation, and art law. Students benefit from Georgetown’s location in Washington, D.C., with access to internships at renowned institutions such as the National Gallery of Art, the Smithsonian Museums, and the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden.

Faculty and Research

The Department of Art and Art History boasts a distinguished faculty of scholars, artists, and curators who are leaders in their respective fields. Faculty members are actively engaged in research, publishing, and exhibitions, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in art history and contemporary art. Their expertise spans a wide range of topics, including Renaissance art, modern and contemporary art, African art, Asian art, and museum studies.

The department also hosts a variety of lectures, symposia, and workshops featuring prominent artists, scholars, and curators from around the world. These events provide students with opportunities to engage with cutting-edge research and contemporary debates in the art world. Additionally, faculty members often collaborate with students on research projects, offering mentorship and guidance.

Facilities and Resources

Georgetown University’s Department of Art and Art History is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities that support both academic study and creative practice. The Walsh Art Building houses spacious studios for painting, drawing, sculpture, and photography, as well as digital labs for graphic design and multimedia projects. The building also features a dedicated gallery space, the Maria & Alberto de la Cruz Art Gallery, which hosts exhibitions of student work, faculty projects, and visiting artists.

The department’s Visual Resources Center provides students and faculty with access to an extensive collection of digital images, slides, and archival materials. This resource is invaluable for research and teaching, offering a wealth of visual materials to support academic inquiry.

Experiential Learning and Career Opportunities

The Department of Art and Art History places a strong emphasis on experiential learning, offering students numerous opportunities to gain practical experience in the art world. Internships are a key component of the curriculum, with students regularly placed at prestigious institutions such as the National Gallery of Art, the Smithsonian American Art Museum, and the Phillips Collection. These internships provide hands-on experience in curatorial work, museum education, conservation, and arts administration.

The department also organizes study abroad programs that allow students to explore art and architecture in global contexts. Popular destinations include Florence, Rome, Paris, and Beijing, where students can study art history and studio art in immersive settings.

Graduates of the Department of Art and Art History go on to pursue diverse careers in the arts, including roles as curators, museum educators, art conservators, gallery directors, and academic researchers. The department’s strong alumni network and career services support students in their professional development, helping them to navigate the art world and achieve their career goals.

Community Engagement and Public Programs

The Department of Art and Art History is deeply committed to engaging with the broader community and fostering public dialogue about the arts. The Maria & Alberto de la Cruz Art Gallery regularly hosts exhibitions that are open to the public, featuring works by contemporary artists, faculty members, and students. These exhibitions are accompanied by public programs, including artist talks, panel discussions, and workshops, which provide opportunities for dialogue and learning.

The department also collaborates with local schools and community organizations to promote arts education and outreach. Through initiatives such as the Georgetown Community Scholars Program, students and faculty work with underserved communities to provide access to arts programming and resources.

Why Study Art and Art History at Georgetown University?

The Department of Art and Art History at Georgetown University is a dynamic and inclusive academic community that nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and cultural understanding. With its rigorous academic programs, distinguished faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to experiential learning, the department prepares students to become leaders in the arts and beyond. Whether you are drawn to the study of art history, the practice of studio art, or the world of museums and galleries, Georgetown’s Department of Art and Art History offers a transformative educational experience that will inspire and challenge you.

Academic Programs Offered at Department of Art and Art History at Georgetown University

The Department of Art and Art History at Georgetown University offers a diverse array of academic programs designed to cater to students with varying interests in the visual arts, art history, and museum studies. Below is a comprehensive list of all programs, clearly categorized and outlined with detailed descriptions and durations.

Undergraduate Programs

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art History

• Duration: 4 years (full-time)
• Description:
  The BA in Art History provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the history of art across different cultures, periods, and mediums. The program emphasizes critical thinking, visual analysis, and research skills. Students explore topics ranging from ancient to contemporary art, with opportunities to specialize in areas such as European, American, African, Asian, and Latin American art. The curriculum includes courses in art theory, historiography, and methodology, as well as opportunities for independent research and study abroad.
• Key Features:
  • Global perspective on art history.
  • Access to Washington, D.C.’s museums and cultural institutions.
  • Opportunities for internships and study abroad programs.
  • Senior thesis or capstone project.

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Studio Art

• Duration: 4 years (full-time)
• Description:
  The BA in Studio Art is designed for students who wish to develop their artistic skills and creative expression. The program offers hands-on training in various media, including painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, and digital art. Students work closely with faculty members who are practicing artists, gaining technical expertise and conceptual depth. The program encourages experimentation and interdisciplinary approaches, integrating art theory with studio practice.
• Key Features:
  • State-of-the-art studio facilities.
  • Opportunities to exhibit work in campus galleries.
  • Emphasis on conceptual development and technical skills.
  • Senior thesis exhibition.

Minor in Art History

• Duration: Typically 2–3 years (alongside a major)
• Description:
  The Art History minor is an excellent complement to any major, offering students the opportunity to explore the history of art and visual culture. The minor requires a selection of courses that cover various periods, regions, and themes in art history. It is ideal for students who wish to deepen their understanding of art while pursuing a different primary field of study.
• Key Features:
  • Flexible curriculum with a range of elective options.
  • Access to art history resources and faculty expertise.
  • Enhances critical thinking and visual literacy skills.

Minor in Studio Art

• Duration: Typically 2–3 years (alongside a major)
• Description:
  The Studio Art minor allows students to develop their artistic skills and creative practice while pursuing another major. The program offers courses in drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, and digital media, providing a foundation in studio art techniques and concepts. Students are encouraged to experiment with different mediums and styles.
• Key Features:
  • Hands-on studio experience.
  • Opportunities to exhibit work in campus galleries.
  • Ideal for students interested in integrating art with other disciplines.

Graduate Programs

Master of Arts (MA) in Art and Museum Studies

• Duration: 2 years (full-time)
• Description:
  The MA in Art and Museum Studies is a unique program that combines academic study with practical training in museum practices and curatorial studies. The program prepares students for careers in museums, galleries, and cultural institutions by offering courses in museum management, curatorial practices, conservation, and art law. Students benefit from Georgetown’s location in Washington, D.C., with access to internships at world-renowned institutions such as the National Gallery of Art, the Smithsonian Museums, and the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden.
• Key Features:
  • Interdisciplinary curriculum integrating art history and museum studies.
  • Hands-on experience through internships and practicums.
  • Access to Washington, D.C.’s cultural resources.
  • Capstone project or thesis.

Special Programs and Opportunities

Study Abroad Programs

• Duration: Varies (semester, summer, or short-term)
• Description:
  The Department of Art and Art History offers study abroad programs that allow students to explore art and architecture in global contexts. Popular destinations include Florence, Rome, Paris, and Beijing. These programs provide immersive learning experiences, combining coursework with visits to museums, galleries, and historic sites.
• Key Features:
  • Courses in art history and studio art.
  • Opportunities to study with international faculty.
  • Enhances global perspective on art and culture.

Internships

• Duration: Varies (typically 1 semester or summer)
• Description:
  Internships are a key component of the department’s curriculum, providing students with hands-on experience in the art world. Students are placed at prestigious institutions such as the National Gallery of Art, the Smithsonian American Art Museum, and the Phillips Collection. Internships are available in areas such as curatorial work, museum education, conservation, and arts administration.
• Key Features:
  • Professional networking opportunities.
  • Practical experience in the art and museum fields.
  • Enhances career readiness.

Senior Thesis and Capstone Projects

• Duration: 1–2 semesters
• Description:
  Both the Art History and Studio Art programs require a senior thesis or capstone project. Art History students conduct original research and write a thesis on a topic of their choice, while Studio Art students create a body of work for a senior exhibition. These projects allow students to showcase their skills and knowledge, culminating in a significant academic or creative achievement.
• Key Features:
  • Mentorship from faculty members.
  • Opportunity to present work to the Georgetown community.
  • Prepares students for graduate study or professional careers.

Certificate Programs

Certificate in Art and Museum Studies

• Duration: 1 year (part-time or full-time)
• Description:
  This certificate program is designed for professionals and graduate students who wish to gain specialized knowledge in art and museum studies. The program offers courses in museum management, curatorial practices, and art law, providing practical skills for careers in cultural institutions.
• Key Features:
  • Flexible schedule for working professionals.
  • Access to Georgetown’s resources and faculty expertise.
  • Enhances career prospects in the museum field.

Summary of Programs

The Department of Art and Art History at Georgetown University offers a rich and diverse array of programs that cater to students at all levels, from undergraduates exploring their passion for art to graduate students preparing for professional careers in the art world. With its rigorous curriculum, distinguished faculty, and access to world-class resources, the department provides an unparalleled educational experience in the visual arts.

Contact Information for the Department of Art and Art History at Georgetown University

Mailing Address:
Department of Art and Art History
Georgetown University
1221 36th Street NW, Walsh Building
Washington, D.C. 20057
USA

Phone:
+1 (202) 687-7010

Email:
artdepartment@georgetown.edu

Website:
https://art.georgetown.edu

Social Media:

• Facebook: https://facebook.com/GeorgetownArt
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/georgetownart
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/GeorgetownArt

Office Hours:
Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (EST)