Understanding the Value of an Art History Degree

Your art history degree is a treasure trove of knowledge, offering a unique perspective on the world of art and culture. While it may not seem immediately applicable to the business world, there are numerous ways to leverage this degree to make money. Let’s explore some of these opportunities.

Teaching and Academia

One of the most direct ways to make money with an art history degree is through teaching. You can find opportunities at various levels, from elementary school to college. High school teachers typically need a teaching certification, but college professors often require a Ph.D. in the field. Additionally, you can teach private lessons or lead art history tours, offering your expertise to those interested in learning more about the subject.

Curatorial and Museum Work

Curators play a crucial role in the art world, managing collections, organizing exhibitions, and researching new pieces. With an art history degree, you can work in museums, galleries, or even private collections. This role requires a strong understanding of art history, as well as excellent communication and organizational skills. Salaries can vary, but curators often enjoy a stable career with opportunities for advancement.

Art Restoration and Conservation

Art restoration and conservation are vital fields that require a deep knowledge of art history. Restorers work to preserve and restore damaged artworks, ensuring they remain accessible for future generations. This career path requires a combination of technical skills and artistic intuition. While the job market can be competitive, those with a passion for art and a strong art history background can find rewarding opportunities.

Art Appraisals and Authentication

Art appraisers and authenticators play a crucial role in the art market, determining the value of artworks and verifying their authenticity. This requires a keen eye for detail and a thorough understanding of art history. Opportunities can be found in auction houses, galleries, and private firms. While the job market can be unpredictable, those with a strong art history degree can command a competitive salary.

Art Writing and Publishing

Art writing and publishing offer a creative outlet for those with an art history degree. You can write articles, reviews, and books on art history, or work as an editor for art-related publications. This career path requires strong writing and research skills, as well as a passion for the subject. Opportunities can be found in magazines, newspapers, and online platforms.

Art Marketing and Sales

Art marketing and sales professionals work to promote and sell artworks. This can involve working for galleries, auction houses, or private dealers. With an art history degree, you can provide valuable insights into the market and help clients make informed decisions. This career path requires excellent communication and negotiation skills, as well as a deep understanding of the art world.

Art Therapy

Art therapy combines art and psychology to help individuals express themselves and work through emotional issues. With an art history degree, you can pursue a career in art therapy, providing a unique perspective on the therapeutic process. This career path requires additional training in psychology, but it offers a fulfilling way to use your art history knowledge to help others.

Art Consulting

Art consultants work with individuals, businesses, and organizations to provide advice on art acquisition, collection management, and exhibition planning. This requires a strong understanding of art history, as well as excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Opportunities can be found in private firms, corporations, and non-profit organizations.

Art Restoration and Conservation

Art restoration and conservation are vital fields that require a deep knowledge of art history. Restorers work to preserve and restore damaged artworks, ensuring they remain accessible for future generations. This career path requires a combination of technical skills and artistic intuition. While the job market can be competitive, those with a passion for art and a strong art history background can find rewarding opportunities.

Art Appraisals and Authentication

Art appraisers and authenticators play a crucial role in the art market, determining the value of artworks and verifying their authenticity. This requires a keen eye for detail and a thorough understanding of art history. Opportunities can be found in auction houses, galleries, and private firms. While the job market can be unpredictable, those with a strong art history degree can command a competitive salary.

Art Writing and Publishing

Art writing and publishing offer a creative outlet for those with an art history degree. You can write articles, reviews, and books on art history, or work as an editor for art-related publications. This career path requires strong writing and research skills, as well as a passion for the subject. Opportunities can be found in magazines