Joe Madrigal (department head)

Art history has historically been a core aspect of humanities curricula, as it emphasizes the analysis and contextualization of images and objects utilizing strategies from such diverse fields as history, psychology, physics, and cultural studies. Although allied, the discipline of art history is distinct from studio art. Simply put, in studio courses students are primarily engaged in the making of art, while students in art history courses are primarily engaged in the study and research of art made by others. Art history courses allow students interested in art, but who are not necessarily interested in making art, a chance to explore visual production.

For students interested in graduate work in art history, a study abroad experience is highly recommended. Students should also consider pursuing language study beyond the 201 level.

A total of 22 credit hours are required for the art history minor. These credits are primarily housed in the art history program, but other credit bearing courses from related disciplines that have a distinct material culture focus or deal with critical theory and aesthetics are also included.

Required for a minor: Six courses (22 credits) are required. This includes the art history core: ARTH 251, 252, 379, plus one course selected from the following ARTH 362, 364, 368, and two of the following ARTH 262, 264, 266, 362, 364, 368; ART 320; CLAS 270, 275, 330; DAN 264; FREN 220; HIST 226; IDS 260, 264; PHIL 300. Other courses may count towards the minor upon department approval.

Art Management Concentration: To complete the art management concentration a student is required to complete a major in management and a minor in art history.