Art History and Visual Studies at NIU
Bachelor of Arts

Investigate the past — and understand the present — through art.

For thousands of years, people have used art to understand the world. Drawings, sculptures and other creations offer insight into their makers’ experiences and values. The study of art history involves many subjects, including literature, science and religion. Our program provides an interdisciplinary education you can customize to your personal and professional goals.

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What Can I Do With an Art History and Visual Studies Degree From NIU?

With your critical-thinking skills and nuanced cultural understanding, you'll be ready to excel in a range of professions. Our graduates thrive in a range of areas, including curatorial/education work in museums and libraries, as well as various teaching and research roles.

Our program is also excellent preparation for graduate study.

Other Programs to Consider

Career Potential for NIU Art History and Visual Studies Majors

Median annual wage:

$53,420

Where you could work:

  • Colleges and universities
  • Corporations and other institutions
  • Governments
  • Historical sites 
  • Museums

Employment growth:

  • Employment of archivists, curators and museum workers is expected to grow 10% in the next 10 years — much faster than average.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O-Net Online, 2023

What to Expect as an Art History and Visual Studies Major at NIU

Your coursework will include elements of history, philosophy, literature, language, science, religion and technology. You’ll benefit from the resources offered by NIU’s proximity to Chicago, Madison and other centers of cultural and artistic expression. You can also explore a range of study abroad options and join our student organization, Historia Artis.

Explore art history courses.

How We’ll Help You Succeed

Apply for free and we’ll automatically consider you for a renewable merit scholarship.

Earn your bachelor’s degree fast with our affordable tuition and fees. Any credit hours you take over 12 are free (per semester).

Prepare to thrive after graduation with personalized support from Career Services.

With our truth-in-tuition policy, you’ll get the same fixed tuition rate for four continuous years, whether you live in Illinois or another state.

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First-year Students
(Freshman)

High School GPA

3.0 or higher?

You're guaranteed general NIU admission.

ACT/SAT SCORES

Not considered.

We think your high school GPA is a better predictor of your success.

First-Year Application

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First-Year Application

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Transfer Students

ALL COLLEGES GPA

2.0 or higher?

You're guaranteed general NIU admission.

ALL COLLEGES GPA

3.0 or higher?

You're guaranteed a
renewable merit scholarship
.

See how your credits transfer

Apply to NIU as a Transfer Student

See how your credits transfer

Apply to NIU as a Transfer Student

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