VCUarts Qatar Launches Innovative Professional Development Course for Art History Students

Doha, The Gulf Observer: The Department of Art History at Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar), a distinguished partner university of Qatar Foundation (QF), has introduced a semester-long, credit-based core course aimed at empowering students with essential professional skills demanded by current and emerging industries.

Entitled ‘Professional Practices for Art History,’ the inaugural course, initiated in January 2024, is spearheaded by esteemed Art History professor, Monica Merlin, Ph.D.

Professor Merlin expressed enthusiasm about the new course, stating, “We are very excited to offer this new course to our Art History students. It is a wonderful opportunity to hone their skills and abilities towards their future careers and enhance their professional readiness. Our students will be able to consider professional paths benefiting from their academic knowledge, as well as their research and communication skills, critical and creative thinking, leadership, and problem-solving.”

Graduates from the Department of Art History at VCUarts Qatar have carved successful careers across diverse industries, holding roles as appraisers, consultants, administrators, conservators, curators, editors/writers, education coordinators, grants specialists, gallery assistants, arts lawyers, museum technicians, and filmmakers.

The course aims to consolidate the comprehensive knowledge and skills that Art History faculty have been imparting since the department’s establishment in 2012. It covers both soft and professional skills, including time management, planning, crafting detailed CVs, short bios, resumes, and cover letters, as well as enhancing one’s web presence. Additionally, the course delves into discussions on potential careers for Art History students, featuring career-focused panel discussions with museum professionals.

An integral part of the curriculum involves guiding students in researching and applying for internships or graduate studies, as well as applying for grants and fellowships. Furthermore, students will learn to request and conduct informational interviews with industry experts, contributing to building a professional network and gaining insights into potential careers.

Upon completion of the course, students will deliver a short presentation outlining their professional goals and presenting a plan to achieve them. These exercises not only facilitate discussions on students’ future interests but also enhance their public speaking and presentation skills.

VCUarts Qatar’s commitment to providing a well-rounded education that combines academic knowledge with practical skills reinforces its position as a leader in fostering the holistic development of students, preparing them for success in the dynamic and competitive professional landscape.