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.
Did You Know?
The School of Art and Design offers full and partial tuition scholarships to art history majors based on a review of research-based writing samples.
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.
Fast-track Your Graduate Degree
If you’re interested in the intersection of art and the law, consider our accelerated B.A. in art history and visual studies and J.D. (law degree) program.
Career Potential for NIU Art History and Visual Studies Majors
Median annual wage :
$57,120
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O-Net Online, 2024
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 11% in the next 10 years — much faster than average.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O-Net Online, 2024
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.
How We’ll Help You Succeed
Apply for free and we’ll automatically consider you for a renewable merit scholarship.
Pursue your bachelor's degree at an exceptional value with our affordable tuition and fees.
Get access to career support resources like assessments, leadership courses and resume/cover letter support.
Apply to NIU
First-year Students
(Freshman)
High School GPA
3.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed general NIU admission.
ACT/SAT SCORES
We think your high school GPA is a better predictor of your success.
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.
Explore Our Campus
Jack Olson Gallery, Jack Arends (Art) Building