Mary McCombie analyzes visual culture from perspectives ranging from anthropology to sociology. In McCombie's view, the visual world, from the quotidian (supermarkets and advertising) to the most elite (art museums) is worthy of careful analysis. It is her hope that students develop a heightened sensitivity to and critical mind toward visual culture.

McCombie is trained as an art historian and is the only member of The College Art Association who is also a professional scuba diver.