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Art History Courses

Art history courses can help you learn about key movements, influential artists, and the cultural contexts that shaped various art forms. You can build skills in visual analysis, critical thinking, and effective communication of artistic concepts. Many courses introduce tools like digital archives, art analysis software, and presentation platforms, which enhance your ability to research artworks and share your insights with others.


Popular Art History Courses and Certifications


  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
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    The Museum of Modern Art

    Modern and Contemporary Art and Design

    Skills you'll gain: Art History, Performing Arts, Photography, Creativity, Electronic Media, Aesthetics, Culture, Cultural Diversity, Media and Communications, Public History, Design, Liberal Arts, Emotional Intelligence, Storytelling, Architectural Design, Multimedia, Social Justice, Photo/Video Production and Technology, Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, Sustainability Standards

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    12K reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
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    The Museum of Modern Art

    Modern Art & Ideas

    Skills you'll gain: Art History, Creativity, Cultural Diversity, Emotional Intelligence, Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    6.9K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    W

    Wesleyan University

    The Modern and the Postmodern (Part 1)

    Skills you'll gain: Aesthetics, Art History, European History, Liberal Arts, World History, Culture, Socioeconomics, Political Sciences, Sociology

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    1K reviews

    Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    U

    Universidad de Palermo

    Historia del Arte: Del Arte Prehistórico al Renacimiento

    Skills you'll gain: Art History, Ancient History, Aesthetics, Culture, World History, Anthropology, European History, Timelines, Design Elements And Principles

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    578 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    U

    University of Pennsylvania

    Greek and Roman Mythology

    Skills you'll gain: Ancient History, Art History, Liberal Arts, Cultural Diversity, World History, Performing Arts, Anthropology, Sociology, Psychology

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    2.6K reviews

    Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    U

    Università Bocconi

    Arts and Heritage Management

    Skills you'll gain: Leadership and Management, Business Management, Team Management, Brand Management, Leadership Studies, Brand Strategy, Innovation, Art History, Fundraising, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Customer Relationship Management, Marketing, Customer experience improvement

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    1.5K reviews

    Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

What brings you to Coursera today?

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    U

    Universitat de Barcelona

    Magic in the Middle Ages

    Skills you'll gain: European History, World History, Art History, Research, Investigation, Cultural Diversity, Anthropology

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
    ·
    1.8K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • T

    The Museum of Modern Art

    Fashion as Design

    Skills you'll gain: Cultural Diversity, Aesthetics, Design, Art History, Sustainability Standards, Research, Non-Verbal Communication, Creativity, World History, Social Impact, Ethical Standards And Conduct

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    3.1K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
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    The Museum of Modern Art

    What Is Contemporary Art?

    Skills you'll gain: Performing Arts, Art History, Electronic Media, Aesthetics, Creativity, Design, Liberal Arts, Architectural Design, Multimedia, Photo/Video Production and Technology, Social Justice

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    1.9K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    W

    Wesleyan University

    The Ancient Greeks

    Skills you'll gain: Ancient History, European History, World History, Art History, Political Sciences, Anthropology, Cultural Sensitivity, Governance, Scientific Methods

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    2.1K reviews

    Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    U

    University of Virginia

    Plagues, Witches, and War: The Worlds of Historical Fiction

    Skills you'll gain: Public History, Writing, Storytelling, Writing and Editing, World History, European History, Liberal Arts, Creativity

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
    ·
    631 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free
    Free
    U

    University of Washington

    Ukraine: History, Culture and Identities

    Skills you'll gain: Cultural Diversity, Community Development, Cultural Responsiveness, Culture, European History, Social Studies, World History, Art History, Economic Development, Ancient History, International Relations, Policty Analysis, Research, and Development, Political Sciences

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    342 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

1234…158

In summary, here are 10 of our most popular art history courses

  • Modern and Contemporary Art and Design: The Museum of Modern Art
  • Modern Art & Ideas: The Museum of Modern Art
  • The Modern and the Postmodern (Part 1): Wesleyan University
  • Historia del Arte: Del Arte Prehistórico al Renacimiento: Universidad de Palermo
  • Greek and Roman Mythology: University of Pennsylvania
  • Arts and Heritage Management: Università Bocconi
  • Magic in the Middle Ages: Universitat de Barcelona
  • Fashion as Design: The Museum of Modern Art
  • What Is Contemporary Art?: The Museum of Modern Art
  • The Ancient Greeks: Wesleyan University

Frequently Asked Questions about Art History

Art history is the study of visual arts in their historical context, examining how art reflects and influences culture, society, and politics. Understanding art history is important because it provides insights into human creativity and expression across different periods and cultures. It helps us appreciate the evolution of artistic techniques, styles, and movements, and fosters critical thinking about the role of art in shaping our world.‎

Careers in art history can be diverse and fulfilling. You might find opportunities as a museum curator, art historian, gallery manager, art educator, or cultural heritage consultant. Additionally, roles in art conservation, art appraisal, and even positions in the art market, such as auction houses, are available. These jobs often require a blend of knowledge about art and practical skills in research, communication, and analysis. ‎

To succeed in art history, you should develop a range of skills. Critical thinking and analytical skills are essential for interpreting artworks and understanding their context. Strong research abilities will help you gather and synthesize information from various sources. Communication skills, both written and verbal, are crucial for sharing your insights effectively. Additionally, familiarity with art techniques and materials can enhance your understanding of the works you study. ‎

There are many excellent online courses available for those interested in art history. Look for programs that cover various periods and styles, such as the Art of the MOOC: Art, Culture, and Society Specialization or the Modern and Contemporary Art and Design Specialization. These courses often provide a comprehensive overview and can cater to different interests within the field.‎

Yes. You can start learning art history on Coursera for free in two ways:

  1. Preview the first module of many art history courses at no cost. This includes video lessons, readings, graded assignments, and Coursera Coach (where available).
  2. Start a 7-day free trial for Specializations or Coursera Plus. This gives you full access to all course content across eligible programs within the timeframe of your trial.

If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in art history, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎

Learning art history can be approached through various methods. Start by exploring online courses that fit your interests and schedule. Reading books and articles on specific artists, movements, or periods can deepen your understanding. Visiting museums and galleries, either in person or virtually, allows you to engage with artworks directly. Joining discussion groups or forums can also enhance your learning experience by connecting you with others who share your passion.‎

Art history courses typically cover a wide range of topics, including major art movements (like Impressionism or Modernism), influential artists, and the cultural contexts in which art was created. You may also explore themes such as the relationship between art and politics, the impact of technology on art production, and the role of art in society. These topics help build a comprehensive understanding of how art interacts with various aspects of human life.‎

For training and upskilling employees, art history courses that focus on creativity, communication, and cultural awareness can be particularly beneficial. Programs like the Teaching with Art: Using Inquiry, Activities, and Themes Specialization can enhance skills in critical thinking and engagement. Additionally, courses that explore the integration of art in various fields, such as the Art for Games Specialization, can be valuable for professionals in creative industries.‎

This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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