Students looking at a display in the art musuem.

Explore the history of art.

Learn to think critically and contextually. Gain a unique perspective on the various manifestations of humankind’s creative endeavors and the variety and complexity of human experience as learned through the study of artifacts. Learn to approach problems interdisciplinarily. The certificate in art history is a stand-alone program and may be taken by any students regardless of major or may be selected by studio art and design majors as part of their degree. Students from backgrounds as diverse as arts and design, history, the humanities, modern languages economics and law-related disciplines can benefit from this certificate. Students in this program will learn time-management skills by working on complex, semester-long projects; they will hone advanced reading, writing and speaking skills specific to a discipline supporting their studio and design practices; they will receive an education complementary to history, modern languages, economics, journalism, marketing and law degrees to open additional careers related to the fine arts. Art history is a discipline that bridges art and the humanities and prepares you to continue your education in graduate school.

Is it for you?
This program will be a good fit if you:
  • Are interested in the history and interpretation of the fine arts, graphic design, buildings, interiors, designed objects and material culture.
  • Are a visual, creative and critical thinker.
  • Are a good writer and want to add additional strengths to your background in the humanities, history, global studies, modern languages and marketing.
  • Have interdisciplinary interests.
  • Want to pursue an art- and design- related career.
Career Opportunities
Explore possible career opportunities with this degree:
  • Support for careers in art and design, artist representation, art law, art appraisal, art restoration, antique dealership (with further education)
  • Educator
  • Museum curator
  • Art gallerist
  • Art consultant
Suggested Majors
Students in drawing class.
Studio Art (B.F.A.) - Art Education Specialization
Student working in a ceramics studio.
Studio Art (B.F.A.) - Ceramics Specialization
Student painting in a studio.
Studio Art (B.F.A.) - Painting Specialization
Three students and instructor in a printmaking lab.
Studio Art (B.F.A.) - Printmaking Specialization
Student working on a sculpture.
Studio Art (B.F.A.) - Sculpture Specialization
Two students working on a landscape project.
Landscape Architecture (B.L.A.)
Five students looking at their computers.
Graphic Design (B.F.A.)
Teaching history
History (B.A./B.S.) - Teaching Specialization
Students_Test_Out-Their-Cameras
Journalism (B.A./B.S.)
Fashion Studies and Retail Merchandising students in class.
Fashion Studies and Retail Merchandising (B.S.)