College of Arts and Sciences
Art History (M.A.)
College of Arts and Sciences
Art History (M.A.)
Earn your MA in Art History at NMSU
Discover a program rooted in intellectual rigor, cultural inquiry, and rich regional context. NMSU’s Master of Arts in Art History invites students to explore the complexities of visual culture through deep engagement with theory, methodology and historiography. The program builds on the university’s land‑grant mission, leveraging its unique borderland location to cultivate scholarship that reflects and serves diverse communities through interdisciplinary research, museum studies, and curatorial practice. Whether your goals include museum practice, academic research, cultural preservation, or preparation for doctoral study, NMSU’s MA in Art History provides the foundation, mentorship, and scholarly tools to thrive in a competitive and evolving field.
Admission Deadlines
February 1 (fall)
- Total credits: 33
Delivery Format
In-person
Career Pathways
There are several career paths someone with an MA in Art History from NMSU can pursue:
- Curator
- Museum director
- Exhibition designer / installer
- Art librarian or visual resources specialist
- Archivist
- Art consultant / advisor
- Auction house specialist
- Historic preservation or architectural Conservation Specialist
- Museum educator or public programs coordinator
- Arts administrator
Degree questions, answered
Have questions about the Master of Arts in Art History? Fill out our inquiry form.
Why choose a M.A. in Art History at NMSU?
Embarking on the Master of Arts in Art History at NMSU is an immersive, intellectually rich journey shaped by rigorous scholarship, interdisciplinary exploration, and meaningful engagement with the cultural landscape of the U.S.–Mexico border region.
- A Deeply Engaged Academic Environment: Students experience a curriculum grounded in critical and cultural discourse, with in‑depth study of theory, methodology, and the historiography of art history.
- Cross‑Disciplinary Learning and Curatorial Practice: Your academic path is not confined to the classroom. The program blends art historical study with opportunities in museum conservation, exhibition development, and curatorial work, giving students hands‑on experiences that connect theory to real‑world application.
- Faculty Mentorship and Professional Growth: You’ll work closely with nationally and internationally recognized faculty whose research, expertise, and professional networks enrich your studies. Regular critique, discourse, and faculty‑guided research help shape your scholarly identity and prepare you for professional advancement or future doctoral study.
- Personalized Thesis Development: The thesis process is a pivotal aspect of the student experience. With support from your major advisor and thesis committee, you’ll propose, refine, and complete original research—developing advanced competencies in art historical writing, critical analysis, and scholarly methodology.
- Expanded Opportunities Through Museum Studies: Students who choose may simultaneously pursue the interdisciplinary Certificate in Museum Studies, gaining additional experience across departments such as Anthropology and History.
- A Community Shaped by Location: NMSU’s location offers a distinctive cultural vantage point. The program embraces its land‑grant mission and borderland setting, encouraging students to engage with diverse communities, culturally layered histories, and regionally rooted artistic practices.
No GRE Required
We’re removing barriers to graduate education, which is why we don’t require the GRE.
An emphasis in art history requires a minimum of 33 credits of art history courses, six of which must be thesis credits. Additionally, three credits of related courses outside the Art Department must be taken with the approval of the department head and the student’s major advisor. Reading proficiency in a foreign language is also required and should be acquired prior to the beginning of thesis research.
Admission to the MA program with an emphasis in art history is based on an accredited BA or BS degree (or equivalent), including at least 18 credits in art history, museum studies, visual studies, or related disciplines. Undergraduate deficiencies must be completed before advancement to candidacy.
Take classes like:
- ARTH 599 - Art History Thesis
- ARTH 579 - Methodologies and Historiography of Art History and Art Theory
- ARTH 511. Art of China I: Neolithic to Song Dynasty
- ARTH 543. Contemporary Global Art Practices
Ready to take the next step?
Request Information
Scholarships and Financial Aid
At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.
Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.
NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.
Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu
Accreditation
New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.