After finishing New York University's art appraisal program, students know all the essentials for becoming an art appraiser, qualifying them to work in art galleries, auction houses and insurance companies. They learn how to give objective evaluations of fine and decorative arts. The program includes specialized appraising such as European and American paintings, silver, Asian art, furniture, photography and books. Certificates are given after students complete six required and four elective courses.
Pratt Institute in New York City has a program where students can earn its certificate of Fine and Decorative Art Appraisal, which prepares students for becoming appraisers. It covers a wide spectrum of personal property, movable property and decorative and collectible property, as well as a combination of all three types. Students come from throughout the country and world to participate in the program. Classes are small, but large enough to offer a wide choice of courses and teachers.
The University of California at Irvine has an appraisal program where students receive specialized knowledge and hands-on experience. Students learn how to do appraisals for various specialized fields, such as estate tax, charitable contributions, damage claims and dissolution of marriage. To receive certificates, they must finish 15 units with four required courses, in addition to three elective units. Certificates are given for successfully finishing all courses with a C grade or better.
The International Society of Appraisers offers several courses in art appraising. Its Appraisal of Fine Art course stresses the main categories of fine art often encountered by dealers and appraisers. The course also focuses on art history and how to identify and research works of fine art, besides describing artworks. Students visit the National Gallery for a close look at various property categories they study. A written assignment and precourse reading are required.