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Humanities & Culture

Department of Art History

Mia Parres is not only a designer on HGTV, she's also an Art History grad.

Mia Parres (B.A., 2008) continued studying architecture and design after her undergraduate degree. Mia’s design capabilities range from satisfying the functional needs of the everyday, relatable and budget-conscious client on HGTV’s The Expandables, to fulfilling the aesthetic dreams of her high-end clients across Ontario and the United States with Sarah Richardson Design.

Photo of Mia Parres

What do employers value about Department of Art History graduates?

Within two years of graduation, 84% of graduates who are in the labour market are employed with a median salary of $40,999/year upon entering the workforce. 50% pursue further post-secondary studies. (Source: StatsCan Career Tool)

your degree after graduation

University of Toronto Art History alumni most frequently apply their communication and critical thinking skills in these industries:

  • Arts and Design
  • Education
  • Media and Communication
  • Research
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Marketing and Sales
  • Administrative
  • Community and Social Services
  • Operations
  • Consulting
  • Heritage and Conservation
  • Parks and Recreation
  • Fundraising
  •  

graduate or professional school

An Art History degree equips students with the organizational and analytical skills for a variety of academic next steps, including graduate programs in:

  • Anthropology
  • Architecture
  • Archival Studies
  • Art History
  • Curatorial Studies
  • Design
  • Education
  • Law
  • Museology / Museum Studies
  • Preservation and Conservation
  • Information Studies

exploring opportunities while you're a student

Learn About yourself

Register for the Job Shadowing Program to connect with professionals in your career area of interest. During a half or full day job shadowing placement, you’ll begin to clarify your goals and better understand your career options.

Attend an In the Field program to meet professionals working in a variety of occupations within one organization. Prior groups have explored the work environments at the Art Gallery of Ontario.

Find a Work-Study Position and gain paid, on-campus positions that provide you with an opportunity to deepen your knowledge, strengthen your skills and explore how your academic studies translate to career possibilities.

Attend a career workshop or small group conversation to explore career possibilities, understand your skills, and plan for your career or further education. Visit clnx.utoronto.ca for more information.

Connect with Alumni

The Backpack to Briefcase (b2B) program provides opportunities for students and recent graduates, to meet and mingle with alumni, faculty, staff and fellow students from their department or academic unit. Alumni who volunteer for b2B Industry Nights, Career Panels, Speed Networking events and Mentorship Meals, offer guidance, career advice and encouragement to A&S students. By taking part in b2B, students will learn about the array of career possibilities available to them as A&S degree recipients.  

Explore Your Options

While you’re a student, get the support and make the connections you need to transition into your dream career. 

Talk to your professors to better understand and prioritize your opportunities.  

Submit your work for publication in the student journal or apply to present your work at the annual student conference. 

Participate in courses taught by curators from the ROM. 

Apply for an internship at the Art Museum at the University of Toronto to get hands-on experience.

Develop hands on skills through a 399 research excursion or an international summer abroad course.

Attend lectures about careers in the art world and graduate school information sessions.

Get involved with HASA, the History of Art Students’ Association.