Bachelor's Degree in Art History & Visual Studies
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
A bachelor's degree in Art History and Visual Studies is perfect for students who are passionate about exploring the cultural, historical, and social significance of art and visual media. This program prepares graduates for careers in museums, galleries, education, cultural heritage preservation, or fields like art curation and criticism, providing expertise in visual analysis, historical research, and cultural interpretation.
Program Overview
Explore the rich narratives of human creativity with our Art History and Visual Studies bachelor's degree. This program delves into the history, theory, and cultural significance of visual arts across time and place, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills. Through coursework and research, you'll examine art movements, iconic works, and the evolving role of visual media in society. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in museums, galleries, cultural heritage organizations, education, and media. Join a program that connects the past and present through the study of art and its profound impact on the world.
Related Careers
- Curating
- Teaching
- Arts management
- Gallery Director
- Publishing
- Art journalism
Admission Requirements
- Official High School Transcript with Pre-College Curriculum: View transcript requirements on the Undergraduate Admission webpage.
- Test Scores (optional): ACT or SAT scores can be submitted but are not required for university admission.
Any "Program Specific Requirements" that display below are specific to the program and will be required for admission to the program.
Application Requirements
Completed applications include an official high school transcript, application fee ($50 domestic/$60 international) and optional official ACT/SAT score (the University of Kentucky is test-optional for admission and scholarships through the 2028-29 academic year).
Application Deadlines
Freshman
-
Early Action
- 12/01/2025 Apply early to be considered for Lewis Honors College, scholarships, or on-campus living.
-
Regular Decision
- 02/15/2026
Transfer
-
Fall Scholarship
- 06/15/2025 Apply early to be considered for scholarships.
-
Fall
- 08/01/2025
-
Spring
- 11/15/2025
-
Summer
- 04/15/2026
FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn
The Bachelor of Arts in Art History & Visual Studies program offers students a global, interdisciplinary exploration of art and visual culture across time and media. Students choose from two distinct tracks: the Art History track emphasizes the development of fine arts within a broad liberal arts tradition, focusing on the histories of painting, sculpture, architecture, and related media; the Visual Studies track takes a wider lens, drawing on methods from the arts, humanities, social sciences, and sciences to examine how visual culture shapes—and is shaped by—diverse global contexts. Graduates are prepared for careers in museums, education, cultural institutions, and media, or for advanced study in art history and related fields. Expand the menu below to view a sample curriculum plan.
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Transfer in using our KCTCS Pathway
This program has a degree pathway from KCTCS, allowing students a seamless transfer process to obtain their bachelor's degree from the University of Kentucky.
View Pathways
Get a Head Start with an
Accelerated Pathway
This program is part of the Accelerated Master's Pathways program. If you plan to obtain a related master's degree, this program can save you time and money with dual credit hours when you sign up.
Attend an Upcoming Event for this Program
These events are designed to answer your questions and give you a glimpse into what it’s like to be a part of our program.
Register Now
Explore Financial Aid Options
Undergraduate degree-seeking students have access to a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans, designed to make education more affordable.
Get Involved!
Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
Join the Creative Arts Living Learning Program
Live with and learn from other creative-minded students at UK! Plus, gain access to dedicated practice spaces and studios right where you live.
Get More Information
Complete the form to get the latest updates on this program, including special events and application deadlines.
Discover your Future
At the University of Kentucky, we provide personalized support, innovative resources, and countless opportunities to help you turn your aspirations into achievements.
