Art history

Understand the story of humanity by examining art from the past.

Humans have always told stories through art. In studying art history, you can learn more about humanity in the most vivid and visceral of ways. Historical context can reveal so much about an artwork's appearance, and the meaning behind it.

If you're captivated by art, why not consider a career as a curator, art advisor, critic, collection manager, or educator? A course in art history will give you essential knowledge and tools, in preparation for an inspiring role in the arts industry.

Study an art history course

Art history degrees typically begin with the basics, such as understanding art and design principles, processes, and discipline areas. A key skill you'll explore early on is how to critically analyse art.

Once the basics have been laid down, you'll examine such areas as:

Art history introduction – Gain a broad understanding of how historical and cultural context manifest in an artwork's aesthetic.
Key artistic periods – Explore works of specific periods and movements, such as renaissance, baroque, rococo, art nouveau, and modernism.
Major artistic movements – Understand not only the visual characteristics of movements such as cubism and surrealism, but the political and social motivations behind them.
Aboriginal art history – Examine the works of indigenous Australian artists.

Create an inspired career

A deep knowledge and appreciation of the arts, particularly in a historical sense, is desirable when it comes to finding work in the arts industry. Common careers for arts history graduates include:

Art curator - Plan exhibitions and manage acquisition of artworks.
Marketing and PR - Promote the events of an arts organisation.
Art conservation and restoration - Maintain and repair artworks susceptible to damage.
Art appraisal - Determine the value of an artwork for sale.
Art educator - Pass on knowledge to students and the general public.

Discover related degrees

Undergraduate CUR-VLC-DEG-2021

Bachelor of Arts (Visual Culture)

Undergraduate GRF-ART-DEG-2021

Bachelor of Arts

10 available majors

Major in Art History
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Major in Criminal Justice
Major in History
Major in Journalism
Major in Literature
Major in Media Studies
Major in Public Relations
Major in Screen Culture
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Undergraduate CUR-FAV-DEG-2021

Bachelor of Arts (Fine Art) (Visual Culture)

7 available majors

Common Level 1 Subjects
Level 1 Major - Fine Art
Level 1 Major - Visual Culture
Level 2 Major - Fine Art
Level 2 Major - Visual Culture
Level 3 Major - Fine Art
Level 3 Major - Visual Culture

Undergraduate CUR-DDV-DEG-2021

Bachelor of Arts (Digital Experience and Interaction Design) (Visual Culture)

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Introduction to History of Art and Design

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Indigenous Arts, Culture and Design

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Australian Aboriginal Art

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