Free Online Art History Courses and Certifications 2024

Art History is a fascinating field of study that explores the development of art and its impact on human culture. It is a part of the Humanities, and provides a unique insight into the history of mankind. Through online courses, students can learn about the various art movements, styles, and techniques that have shaped our world. Art History is an invaluable source of knowledge, and can provide a deeper understanding of the human experience.

Art History Courses

What Are the Best Art History Certifications?

Certificate Program in World Art History from Smithsonian Associates: This program will provide you with a global perspective on art and architecture and draw on the Smithsonian's world-class collections and the rich resources of other Washington institutions. You will choose from a variety of core courses and electives that cover the major creators, movements, and historical periods that shaped art across civilizations and centuries. You will also receive invitations for special tours and informal gatherings with course leaders and other program participants.


Modern and Contemporary Art and Design Specialization from Coursera: This specialization will help you explore the works of modern and contemporary artists and designers from the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). You will learn how to analyze and interpret art using different frameworks and perspectives, such as formal analysis, social history, biography, patronage, gender, identity, and more. You will also learn how to apply your knowledge to your own creative projects.


Introduction to Classical Music from Coursera: This course will introduce you to the history and development of classical music from the Middle Ages to the present day. You will learn how to listen to and appreciate different genres, forms, styles, composers, and performers of classical music. You will also learn how music relates to its historical, social, cultural, and political contexts.


Historia del Arte: Del Arte Prehistórico al Renacimiento from Coursera: This course will teach you the history and evolution of art from prehistoric times to the Renaissance. You will learn how to identify and describe the main characteristics, techniques, functions, and meanings of different artistic expressions in various cultures and regions. You will also learn how to compare and contrast different artistic periods and styles.


Words Spun Out of Images: Visual and Literary Culture in Nineteenth Century Japan from Coursera: This course will explore the interplay between visual and literary culture in nineteenth century Japan. You will learn how images influenced texts and vice versa, creating a rich and dynamic artistic landscape. You will also learn how to appreciate the aesthetic, cultural, and historical significance of various artworks, such as woodblock prints, paintings, novels, poems, essays, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Q1: Where does art history fit into our art class?

Art History plays an important role in our art class. It provides you with a wealth of knowledge and insight into the creative process, giving you a better understanding of the techniques, theories, and visuals used by artists throughout history. By studying Art History, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the works of the past, as well as gain inspiration for your creative endeavors. Additionally, Art History can help you answer questions about why certain works of art were created, and how you can use similar techniques to express your messages.

Q2: Should one study art history or fine art?

If you're considering a career in the arts, it's important to decide whether you want to pursue art history or fine art. If you're interested in becoming an art historian or teaching art history, then studying art history is the way to go. On the other hand, if you want to become a fine artist, you should focus on developing your skills in that area. Most degree programs for fine artists include some art history classes, so you can still learn about the history of art while honing your craft. Ultimately, the decision of whether to study art history or fine art should be based on your career goals.

Q3: What is the curriculum of an online art history course?

The online master's in art history and visual culture program offers a comprehensive curriculum of 36 credit hours, with 18 credits coming from core courses. These core courses cover topics such as the history of art, visual culture, and art criticism. You can then choose from a variety of electives to customize your degree to your professional interests in art and culture. These electives may include topics such as modern art, photography, and museum studies. With this program, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of art history and visual culture.

Q4: What Art History courses can I find on AZ Class?

On this page, we have collected free or certified 75 Art History online courses from various platforms. The list currently only displays up to 50 items. If you have other needs, please contact us.

Q5: Can I learn Art History for free?

Yes, If you don’t know Art History, we recommend that you try free online courses, some of which offer certification (please refer to the latest list on the webpage as the standard). Wish you a good online learning experience!

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