To study art and architectural history is to explore why and how humans have made images, objects, sites and environments throughout time and in our own present. We engage in a conversation with the stuff that humans have expended time to craft and conceptualize. By investigating the creation, purposes, and meanings of these cultural products, we better understand ourselves and each other. The department offers a major in the History of Art and Architecture (B.A.) and houses the Museums Studies program which offers a major (B.A.) and minor.
The Architectural Studies Program is housed within our department. The program offers a B.S. in Architecture and a B.A. in Architectural Studies as well as a minor in Architecture – Design. For more information, see arch.pitt.edu.
ABOUT US
We are eager to meet with undergraduate students who have questions about our programs and the opportunities we offer. Amanda Raczkowski is the Department Coordinator and Financial Manager and can answer basic questions about opportunities and direct you to the help you need. Maria D'Anniballe is the Undergraduate Advisor for the department. She meets with students to discuss program requirements, course registration, planning future semesters, and aligning academic and professional goals. To schedule an advising appointment please log in to Navigate Student mobile app or desktop version using your PITT Login and select "Schedule an Appointment" and choose “History of Art and Architecture”. Detailed information on Pathways can be found here.
Alex Taylor directs our Academic Internship Program for Art History/Museum Studies. Students interested in pursuing an internship with one of our local Consortium partners should meet with him to discuss their goals so that we can match you with upcoming opportunities. Gretchen Bender is the Assistant Chair of the department and Director of Undergraduate Studies. She can answer broad questions about the programs and can meet with prospective students.
Current Students
Our students take advantage of the rich resources provided by the University and our partnerships with local museums and arts organizations. History of Art and Architecture majors and Museum Studies minors engage in collaborative and independent research projects, teaching assistantships, travel opportunities, internships, and community projects that have an impact. Learn more about what some of our current students are doing and have accomplished. Read more
Internships
Due to a major grant we received from the A.W. Mellon Foundation, we have established strong partnerships with local art museums and historical collections, the Collecting Knowledge Pittsburgh consortium. Our students benefit from supportive mentoring as we place them in internships that are tailored to their interests and professional goals, and engage in substantive projects that provide real-world experience. Our internship program is one of the key components of our popular Museum Studies minor which draws students from multiple disciplines. Read more
Recent Graduates
What does one do after studying art history and museum studies? A great deal! Learn about the exciting paths some of our recent grads have taken. Read more