Art History

The art history area of the Art major also includes the art core. Studio and gallery experience enhance the student's understanding of historical works of art. For obvious reasons the art history student is urged to participate in the Rome program. Advanced art history courses typically begin in the junior year and culminate with the senior thesis, a major research paper on some aspect of nineteenth-or twentieth-century art.

Degrees offered: BA

Faculty: Professor Catherine Caesar, Assistant Professor

Basic Requirements/Art History Area

The Art History Area of the Art Majors requires 24 credits in Art History, 18 of which are advanced hours; two one-credit senior seminars; two credits in Gallery Practicum; ten credits in studio (drawing, design, and figure); and six credits in advanced art electives. A 35-page research paper, oral examination, public slide lecture, and the art history slide examination required of all Art majors constitute the comprehensive examination. French or German is the recommended language. Electives such as Aesthetics and Historical Methodology are also recommended. Internships in area museums or galleries may be taken for additional credit.

Comprehensive Examination

In the second semester of the junior year the work of the student is reviewed by the entire art faculty. A second review follows in the first senior semester and a final review in the last semester prior to the presentation of the Senior Exhibition.

Art History Concentration

The Art History Concentration provides a coherent set of experiences for students interested in pursuing this area short of a major. It requires 18/19 credits including four art history courses, at least three advanced, one course reflecting on theories of expression or methodology, one studio course, one credit of Art Gallery Practicum.

Area of Art History