The Art Major with an Emphasis in Art History is designed for students who wish to pursue the study of the visual arts in a social, political, philosophical and cultural context as a foundation for understanding human history and creativity. The study of art history develops a greater sensitivity to art-related issues, the ability to think critically about art and history, and to appreciate the artistic expression of varied cultures and civilizations. Completion of the AA degree in Art with an Emphasis in Art history exposes students to the major stylistic periods of Western European and American Art and Architecture and provides a firm basis for continued study in the field of art history.
Art majors find employment in a variety of fields, which include advertising, manufacturing, industrial design, public relations, and communications. Experienced artists frequently specialize in a particular product or field such as fashion, industrial art, advertising, or story illustration.
Career Opportunities
Career opportunities, which require additional studies at a four-year institution, include the following: college professor, teacher, arts administrator, museum/gallery curator, corporate art advisor, museum docent, slide librarian, consultant on historical style for film and TV production, museum conservator, historical conservationist, art critic, tour guide, travel consultant, research assistant, and art dealer.
Program Learning Outcomes
Students completing this program will be able to:
- Identify major monuments and movements in the history of art.
- Identify and describe stylistic characteristics in order to place works of art in their historical and stylistic context.
- Apply critical analysis to compare and contrast works of art.
- Relate works of art to the societies in which they were created.
- Critique in an original manner, using the appropriate language of art, the form and content of works of art.