The Department of Art and Art History at the University of Miami is a vibrant and dynamic academic hub dedicated to fostering creativity, critical thinking, and scholarly excellence in the visual arts. Located in the culturally rich city of Coral Gables, Florida, the department offers a diverse range of programs that integrate studio art, art history, and digital media, preparing students for successful careers in the arts and beyond. With a commitment to innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and global perspectives, the Department of Art and Art History stands as a leader in arts education and research within the University of Miami’s College of Arts and Sciences.

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Academic Programs and Curriculum

The Department of Art and Art History offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to meet the needs of aspiring artists, art historians, and digital media professionals. At the undergraduate level, students can pursue a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art, a BA in Art History, or a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA). The BFA program is particularly rigorous, providing intensive studio training in areas such as painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, and digital media. The BA in Art History emphasizes critical analysis, research, and writing, equipping students with the skills to interpret and contextualize visual culture across historical periods and geographic regions.

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For graduate students, the department offers a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Studio Art, a program renowned for its emphasis on experimental practices and professional development. The MFA curriculum encourages students to push the boundaries of traditional art forms while engaging with contemporary issues and technologies. Additionally, the department provides a Master of Arts (MA) in Art History, which focuses on advanced research methodologies, theoretical frameworks, and specialized topics in art history.

Faculty and Research

The Department of Art and Art History boasts a distinguished faculty of practicing artists, scholars, and educators who are leaders in their respective fields. Faculty members are actively engaged in cutting-edge research, exhibitions, and publications, contributing to the global discourse on art and visual culture. Their expertise spans a wide range of areas, including modern and contemporary art, Renaissance and Baroque studies, Latin American art, African art, and digital media. This diversity of knowledge enriches the department’s academic offerings and provides students with mentorship from experts who are shaping the future of the arts.

The department also emphasizes interdisciplinary research and collaboration, encouraging students and faculty to explore connections between art, technology, science, and the humanities. Through partnerships with other departments, research centers, and cultural institutions, the Department of Art and Art History fosters a culture of innovation and intellectual curiosity.

Facilities and Resources

Students in the Department of Art and Art History have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources that support their creative and scholarly endeavors. The Wesley Art Studio is a dedicated space for studio art students, featuring well-equipped studios for painting, sculpture, printmaking, and photography. The Digital Media Lab provides cutting-edge technology for digital art production, including 3D printing, video editing, and interactive media design. The department also houses the Lowe Art Museum, one of South Florida’s premier art museums, which offers students unparalleled opportunities to study and engage with original works of art from diverse cultures and time periods.

In addition to its physical resources, the department provides students with access to a wide range of academic and professional development opportunities. These include internships, study abroad programs, and partnerships with local and international arts organizations. The department’s Art + Art History Internship Program connects students with leading museums, galleries, and cultural institutions, allowing them to gain hands-on experience and build professional networks.

Student Life and Community Engagement

The Department of Art and Art History is committed to fostering a vibrant and inclusive community of artists and scholars. Students are encouraged to participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, including student-run art organizations, exhibitions, and lectures. The department regularly hosts visiting artists, scholars, and curators who share their insights and experiences with students, enriching the academic environment and inspiring creative growth.

Community engagement is a cornerstone of the department’s mission. Through initiatives such as public art projects, community workshops, and collaborative exhibitions, students and faculty work together to make a positive impact on the local and global community. The department’s commitment to social responsibility and cultural diversity is reflected in its curriculum, programming, and outreach efforts.

Alumni Success and Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Department of Art and Art History at the University of Miami have gone on to achieve remarkable success in a wide range of fields. Alumni work as professional artists, curators, educators, designers, and arts administrators, contributing to the cultural and creative industries on both a national and international scale. The department’s strong emphasis on critical thinking, technical skills, and professional development ensures that students are well-prepared to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the contemporary art world.

The department’s Career Services Office provides personalized support to students and alumni, offering career counseling, portfolio reviews, and job placement assistance. Through its extensive network of alumni and industry connections, the department helps students launch their careers and achieve their professional goals.

Why Study Art and Art History at the University of Miami?

The Department of Art and Art History at the University of Miami is a dynamic and innovative academic community that empowers students to explore their creative potential and make meaningful contributions to the world of art and visual culture. With its rigorous academic programs, world-class faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to community engagement, the department offers an unparalleled educational experience for aspiring artists and scholars. Whether pursuing a career in the arts or seeking to deepen their understanding of visual culture, students in the Department of Art and Art History are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration to succeed in a rapidly changing world.

For more information about the Department of Art and Art History at the University of Miami, visit https://art.as.miami.edu/.

Academic Programs Offered at Department of Art and Art History at the University of Miami

The Department of Art and Art History at the University of Miami offers a diverse range of academic programs designed to cater to the interests and career goals of aspiring artists, art historians, and digital media professionals. 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

• Duration: 4 years (full-time)
• Description: The BA in Art is a flexible program that allows students to explore various disciplines within the visual arts while gaining a broad liberal arts education. Students can take courses in painting, sculpture, photography, printmaking, and digital media, as well as art history. This program is ideal for students who want to combine their artistic interests with other academic pursuits.
• Key Features:
  • Emphasis on foundational skills in studio art and art history.
  • Opportunities for interdisciplinary study across the university.
  • Preparation for careers in arts administration, education, or further graduate study.

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art History

• Duration: 4 years (full-time)
• Description: The BA in Art History focuses on the critical study of visual culture across historical periods and geographic regions. Students learn to analyze and interpret works of art within their cultural, social, and political contexts. The program covers topics such as Renaissance art, modern and contemporary art, Latin American art, and African art.
• Key Features:
  • Strong emphasis on research, writing, and critical thinking.
  • Access to the Lowe Art Museum for hands-on learning.
  • Preparation for careers in museums, galleries, education, or advanced graduate study.

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Studio Art

• Duration: 4 years (full-time)
• Description: The BFA in Studio Art is a professional degree program designed for students seeking intensive training in the visual arts. The program offers concentrations in painting, sculpture, photography, printmaking, and digital media. Students develop a strong portfolio and gain the technical and conceptual skills needed for a career as a professional artist.
• Key Features:
  • Advanced studio courses and individualized mentorship.
  • Opportunities to exhibit work in student and professional galleries.
  • Preparation for careers in fine arts, design, or graduate study in MFA programs.

Graduate Programs

Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Studio Art

• Duration: 2–3 years (full-time)
• Description: The MFA in Studio Art is a terminal degree program that emphasizes experimental practices, professional development, and critical engagement with contemporary art. Students work closely with faculty to develop a cohesive body of work and participate in exhibitions, critiques, and seminars. The program encourages interdisciplinary approaches and the use of new media and technologies.
• Key Features:
  • Access to state-of-the-art facilities, including the Wesley Art Studio and Digital Media Lab.
  • Opportunities for teaching assistantships and professional exhibitions.
  • Preparation for careers as professional artists, educators, or curators.

Master of Arts (MA) in Art History

• Duration: 2 years (full-time)
• Description: The MA in Art History is a research-intensive program that prepares students for advanced study and careers in academia, museums, and cultural institutions. Students specialize in areas such as modern and contemporary art, Renaissance and Baroque art, Latin American art, or African art. The program emphasizes theoretical frameworks, research methodologies, and critical writing.
• Key Features:
  • Close mentorship by faculty experts in various art historical fields.
  • Opportunities to conduct original research and present at conferences.
  • Preparation for PhD programs or careers in museums, galleries, and arts organizations.

Minors and Certificates

Minor in Art

• Duration: Typically 2–3 years (alongside a major)
• Description: The Minor in Art allows students to explore their interest in the visual arts while pursuing a major in another field. Students take courses in studio art and art history, gaining foundational skills and knowledge in the visual arts.
• Key Features:
  • Flexible curriculum that complements a wide range of majors.
  • Opportunities to develop creative skills and artistic expression.

Minor in Art History

• Duration: Typically 2–3 years (alongside a major)
• Description: The Minor in Art History provides students with a broad understanding of visual culture and its historical contexts. Students take courses in various art historical periods and regions, developing critical thinking and analytical skills.
• Key Features:
  • Enhances students’ ability to interpret and contextualize visual culture.
  • Complements majors in history, literature, anthropology, and more.

Certificate in Digital Media

• Duration: 1–2 years (depending on course load)
• Description: The Certificate in Digital Media is designed for students interested in exploring the intersection of art and technology. The program covers topics such as digital photography, video art, 3D modeling, and interactive media.
• Key Features:
  • Hands-on training in cutting-edge digital tools and techniques.
  • Ideal for students pursuing careers in digital art, design, or media production.

Special Programs and Opportunities

Study Abroad Programs

• Description: The Department of Art and Art History offers study abroad opportunities that allow students to explore global art traditions and cultures. Programs include semester-long exchanges, summer intensives, and faculty-led trips to destinations such as Italy, Spain, and Latin America.
• Key Features:
  • Immersive experiences in art history and studio art.
  • Opportunities to visit world-renowned museums, galleries, and cultural sites.

Art + Art History Internship Program

• Description: The internship program connects students with leading museums, galleries, and cultural institutions, providing hands-on experience in the arts. Internships are available locally, nationally, and internationally.
• Key Features:
  • Professional development and networking opportunities.
  • Practical experience in curatorial work, arts administration, and education.

Lowe Art Museum Engagement

• Description: Students have access to the Lowe Art Museum, which houses a diverse collection of over 19,000 objects. The museum offers opportunities for research, internships, and hands-on learning.
• Key Features:
  • Access to original works of art for study and inspiration.
  • Opportunities to participate in exhibitions and public programs.

Summary of Program Durations

• Undergraduate Programs: 4 years (BA in Art, BA in Art History, BFA in Studio Art)
• Graduate Programs: 2–3 years (MFA in Studio Art, MA in Art History)
• Minors and Certificates: 1–3 years (depending on course load)

The Department of Art and Art History at the University of Miami provides a rich and diverse academic environment where students can pursue their passions, develop their skills, and prepare for successful careers in the arts. For more information, visit https://art.as.miami.edu/.

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

Address:
Department of Art and Art History
University of Miami
College of Arts and Sciences
1200 Stanford Drive
Coral Gables, FL 33146
USA

Phone:
Main Office: +1 305 284 2544
Fax: +1 305 284 2114

Email:
General Inquiries: art@miami.edu
Undergraduate Programs: artundergrad@miami.edu
Graduate Programs: artgrad@miami.edu
Lowe Art Museum: lowe@miami.edu

Website:
https://art.as.miami.edu

Social Media Accounts:

• Instagram: https://instagram.com/umartarthistory
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/UMArtArtHistory
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/UMArtArtHistory
• LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/school/university-of-miami-department-of-art-and-art-history