Art History and Visual Culture
This program is oriented toward the history of western art, although courses are frequently offered on non-western topics. The foundation for the study of art history in SOVA is a two-semester survey of the history of art. At the intermediate level, there are fourteen courses offered on a regular basis, ranging from ancient Egyptian art and architecture to Art Since 1900, and including archaeology, arts of China and Japan, and the history of graphic design. Upper-level courses are designated as special topics courses. In recent years, they have ranged from the Seven Wonders of the World to Japanese prints to the History of Photography to the Preservation of Historic Interiors.
The major in Art History and Visual Culture is a 42-credit degree. In addition to the two semester Survey of the History of Art (2385-86), students are required to take five courses at the 3000-level. The five courses are chosen from a list of four historical categories, ensuring students study art and architectural history over a broad historical range. In addition, majors are required to take Topics in Criticism and Methodology (Art 4484) and three upper-level topics classes (Art 4384).
To provide a broader context for the history of art, majors are also required to take a History course and a Humanities course (focusing on broad cultural and historical periods). To ensure some ‘hands on’ experience, they are also required to take relevant studio courses. The Program encourages students to take advantage of opportunities to study abroad and to serve as interns in cultural organizations, especially museums and historical sites.
The minor in art history is an 18-credit degree. It consists of the two-semester Survey of the History of Art (Art 2385-86) and two courses at the 3000-level and two at the 4000-level.
Click here to view the check sheet for the art history minor.
MA IN MATERIAL CULTURE & PUBLIC HUMANITIES
This is a cross-disciplinary degree with two interrelated emphases (material culture and public humanities), which share common intellectual issues and employment goals. This MA degree will produce graduates who will be able to interpret material culture (e.g., physical objects; historical artifacts) within informed historical/ cultural frameworks, so that they are prepared for a wide range of careers in museums, historical societies, and community and cultural organizations. Material culture is the study of material or physical objects, as well as the placement of those objects in critical, theoretical and historical perspectives as the products of distinct cultures. Public humanities bridges the divide between academia and the public by encouraging dialogue between scholars and communities on cultural and social issues.
Questions about the MA program? Contact Dr. Aaron Ansell or Michelle Moseley.
LEARN MORE