Earn a Smithsonian World Art History Certificate Online in 2025

Deepen your knowledge of art through programs that span centuries and cultures

December 19, 2024

A variety of art images appear in a collage including a portrait of a woman in a red dress, a nightscape, a large marble domed building, an equestrian state and a statue of a man holding a calf on his shoulders — Frida Kahlo, 1933, by Magda Pach, from Smithsonian museum collections; Taj Mahal, completed 1643, Agra, India; Starry Night, ca. 1889, by Vincent Van Gogh; The Calf-Bearer, ca. 570 B.C.; Athens, Greece; Equestrian ceramic figure; ca. 13th–15th centuries; Mali.

Is this a year in which you’d like to deepen your knowledge and appreciation of art? Becoming part of Smithsonian Associates’ certificate program in World Art History is the perfect—and most enjoyable—way to move you toward that goal. Under the guidance of expert teachers presenting in person and online year-round, examine the major creators, movements, masterworks and historical periods that shaped art across civilizations and centuries.

In a flexible, personalized approach, you choose the courses, seminars, study tours and studio art classes that speak to your own interests and complete the program requirements at your own pace. There are many rich and varied opportunities designed for art lovers throughout the winter and early spring: Among the credit-carrying online offerings are programs on the art of India, glass in America, Spanish art and architecture, understanding contemporary art, and a series of “Art-full Friday” excursions into the glories of Italian art and architecture led by an art historian live from Tuscany. Online programs are presented on Zoom, and new topics are added regularly. If you are located in the Washington D.C.-area a select number of classes and study tours are available in person.

Now’s the perfect time to join the many participants in the program. In 2025, you’ll find an expanded roster of instructors, a new range of course topics, and special programming linked to Smithsonian Associates’ 60th-anniversary celebration. Register now and receive invitations for informal gatherings with course leaders and fellow program participants.

Register for the program and immerse yourself in the world of art throughout 2025—and beyond. To view the Smithsonian Associates digital program guide, visit smithsonianassociates.org.