Master of Arts in History of Art and Design Pratt Institute

The mission of graduate studies in the History of Art and Design Department is to provide students with the skills and knowledge to pursue careers as art and design historians and professionals in museums, galleries, and libraries, or to pursue graduate work at the doctorate level. Through comprehensive study of global art and design within historical and cultural contexts and intensive research and scholarship in specialized areas, students develop a critical understanding of the field as well as research and analytical skills. Graduates demonstrate excellence in independent and critical thinking and understanding of the historic roles and responsibilities of art and design. Internships at museums, libraries, non-profit art organizations, and galleries provide opportunities for students to work in professional areas of their interests and prepare for future careers.

THE PROGRAM'S STRUCTURE

The History of Art and Design Department develops courses, organizes excursions, and establishes internships to take advantage of our extensive working relationship with the city's museums, galleries, and cultural organizations.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

• Graduates command of a body of knowledge that describes the forms and creation of valued and acknowledged works of art.
• Graduates have a historical understanding of subjects tied to changes in social, political, and economic contexts through time.
• Graduates demonstrate an understanding of the discipline’s tools and methods and are able to apply these to a specialized body of information.
• Graduates are able to read and translate texts in French, or German, or another research language.
• Graduates achieve the ability to research and write an in-depth thesis on a topic of their choice.