Bachelor in Art History

Applications for the Aug 2027 intake are open until Dec 1, 2026. Tuition fees are 54,100 USD per year.

The Bachelor in Art History is a 4-year program at Rice University for students interested in the history of art. This degree provides a broad understanding of European, American, Latin American, Middle Eastern/Islamic, African/African diaspora, and Asian art history. The program helps students develop a deep appreciation for the chronological, geographical, and methodological breadth of the field of art history.

The curriculum covers a variety of courses in art history, including the study of different periods, styles, and regions. Students develop skills in visual analysis, research, and critical thinking, and learn to evaluate and interpret works of art. The program also offers a minor in Art History and houses the minor in Cinema and Media Studies, providing students with a range of options to tailor their studies to their interests.

Graduates of this program can pursue careers as Art Critics, Curators, Art Conservators, Art Historians, or Arts Administrators. They can work in museums, galleries, or cultural institutions, helping to promote and preserve the arts. The skills developed in this program, such as visual analysis and research, can also be applied to careers in education, writing, or public policy.

Rice University in Houston, founded in 1912, is a selective private research university known for strong academics, small classes, and collaborative culture. With diverse undergraduate and graduate programs across engineering, natural sciences, humanities, social sciences, and business, Rice emphasizes hands on learning and faculty mentorship. International students will find a community that values interdisciplinary projects, research opportunities, and leadership development within a welcoming campus environment.

Rice’s strengths include close faculty engagement, modern laboratories, and opportunities for undergraduate research that often lead to publications or conference presentations. The residential college system fosters peer networks and extracurricular learning, while centers and institutes support entrepreneurship, public policy, and global study. International students can access dedicated advising, visa support, and campus resources that ease academic transition and cultural adjustment.

Located in Houston, a global city with a dynamic economy and strong industry partnerships, Rice gives students access to internships and employers across technology, energy, health, and the arts. Scholarships and assistantships are competitive but available for qualified applicants, and Rice’s alumni network is active internationally. For students seeking rigorous academics combined with personalized mentorship and real world exposure, Rice offers a vibrant foundation for academic growth and career readiness.