The Ultimate Guide to Becoming an Art History Professor in the USA, UK, Australia, and Canada

Are you passionate about art and history? Do you have a deep appreciation for cultural heritage and artistic expressions from various time periods? If so, a career as an Art History Professor might be the perfect fit for you. In this detailed guide, we will explore everything you need to know about becoming an Art History Professor in the USA, UK, Australia, and Canada—from job descriptions and required skills to salary ranges and career growth opportunities.

Job Description & Responsibilities

As an Art History Professor, your primary role is to educate students about the history, styles, movements, and significance of various works of art. You will design and deliver lectures, lead discussions, assign readings and projects, and evaluate student performance. Additionally, you may conduct research, publish scholarly articles, and participate in academic conferences.

Key Responsibilities:

• Teach courses in art history at the undergraduate and/or graduate level
• Create syllabi, lesson plans, and assignments
• Provide feedback and guidance to students
• Conduct research in the field of art history
• Participate in departmental meetings and committees
• Mentor students and advise on academic and career matters
• Stay current with developments in the field and contribute to its advancement

Required Skills & Qualifications

To become a successful Art History Professor, you will need a combination of education, experience, and essential skills:

Education:

• A Master’s degree in Art History is typically required for entry-level positions
• A Ph.D. in Art History or a related field is preferred for tenure-track positions or higher education roles

Skills:

• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Strong research and writing abilities
• Critical thinking and analytical skills
• Passion for art and history
• Organizational and time management skills

Career Path & Growth Opportunities

Starting a career as an Art History Professor usually involves gaining teaching experience at the college or university level. Entry-level positions may include adjunct faculty roles or lecturer positions. As you gain experience and publish scholarly work, you can pursue tenure-track positions, department chair roles, or even become a distinguished scholar in the field.

Long-term career growth opportunities for Art History Professors may include becoming a department head, publishing books, serving on editorial boards, or receiving prestigious awards and honors for contributions to the field.

Salary & Job Outlook

The average salary for Art History Professors varies depending on location, level of education, experience, and institution. In the USA, the median annual wage for postsecondary teachers was $79,540 as of May 2020. In the UK, the average salary for university lecturers ranges from £33,797 to £49,553 per year.

Job outlook for Art History Professors is generally stable, with opportunities available in colleges, universities, museums, art galleries, and cultural institutions. As the field of art history continues to evolve, there will be a demand for educators who can provide insights into art’s historical context and cultural significance.

Best Industries & Work Environments

Art History Professors can work in a variety of settings, including:

• Colleges and universities
• Museums and art galleries
• Cultural heritage organizations
• Research institutions
• Online education platforms

Some Art History Professors may have the opportunity to work remotely or engage in part-time teaching opportunities. The field offers flexibility in terms of work environment and specialization within specific art historical periods or themes.

How to Get Hired

Here are some tips for aspiring Art History Professors to land their dream job:

• Build a strong academic background with a focus on art history
• Gain teaching experience through internships, assistantships, or adjunct positions
• Develop a strong CV highlighting research, publications, and conference presentations
• Network with colleagues in the field, attend conferences, and engage with professional organizations
• Utilize job-hunting platforms such as HigherEdJobs, Chronicle Vitae, and Academic Jobs Online

Challenges & Downsides

While a career as an Art History Professor can be intellectually rewarding, it also comes with challenges:

• Pressure to publish research and maintain academic standing
• Heavy workload with a combination of teaching, research, and administrative duties
• Competition for tenure-track positions and limited job availability in certain regions
• Salary disparities between institutions and geographic areas

Success Stories & Notable People

Some successful Art History Professors and notable figures in the field include:

• Maya Angelou – Renowned poet, writer, and professor of American Studies at Wake Forest University
• Walter Gropius – German architect and founder of the Bauhaus School
• Linda Nochlin – Feminist art historian and author of the groundbreaking essay “Why Have There Been No Great Women Artists?”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the different specializations within the field of art history?

A: Art history encompasses a wide range of specializations, including Renaissance art, modern art, contemporary art, Asian art, African art, and more. Art historians may focus on specific artists, movements, regions, or themes within the discipline.

Q: Is a Ph.D. required to become an Art History Professor?

A: While a Ph.D. is not always required for entry-level positions, it is highly recommended for long-term career growth and advancement in the field. Many tenure-track positions at colleges and universities prefer candidates with a Ph.D. in Art History or a related field.

Conclusion

If you have a passion for art, history, and education, a career as an Art History Professor can be a fulfilling and enriching path. By acquiring the necessary skills, qualifications, and experience, you can make a meaningful impact in the lives of students, contribute to the field of art history, and inspire future generations of art lovers and scholars. Explore the diverse opportunities available in the USA, UK, Australia, and Canada, and embark on a rewarding journey as an Art History Professor.