WHAT IS AN ART HISTORY MAJOR?
Students with an art history major or minor are trained to analyze the production, function, and meaning of works of art and visual culture from prehistory to the present, including painting, architecture, sculpture, photography and new media. An art history degree involves visual culture from around the world, and its place within a broader context of politics, religion, science, history and philosophy.
The study and analysis of visual culture and its context provides a way of understanding not only the past but the present. The study of the history of art and its attendant issues provides an opportunity to explore the most important issues of our day, including ethics, gender, diversity and social justice.
WAYS TO STUDY ART HISTORY
You have the ability to tailor your education to your unique interests by choosing a double major or minor in art history. Whatever path you choose, you will receive a rigorous, student-centered education in the liberal arts, focused on critical thinking and analysis. Complementary areas of study that pair well with art history include:
- Art
- Art Education
- Communication Studies
- English
- Francophone Studies
- History
- Gender Studies
- Philosophy
- Political Science
- Sociology
- Spanish
- Latin American and LatinX Studies
- Theology and Religious Studies
While students gain a broad understanding of the history of art and different art styles, they have the ability to focus on particular art periods in history or geographical areas.