Art History Major

Program Overview

Suffolk University's Art History major equips students with critical thinking, research, and communication skills to analyze and interpret art in its social and cultural context. The program emphasizes a global perspective, utilizing Boston's rich cultural resources and offering study abroad opportunities. Graduates are prepared for careers in museums, galleries, archives, schools, and other cultural institutions, as well as further studies in art history.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Objective: The Art History major aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to analyze and interpret art in its social and cultural context.
Students will gain a deep understanding of diverse historical periods and cultures, fostering appreciation for different values and social practices. The program prepares graduates for further studies or careers in museums, galleries, archives, schools, and other cultural institutions.
• Description: The program emphasizes developing critical thinking, research, and communication skills.
Students will learn to analyze and interpret art using various approaches, including iconological, socio-historical, and feminist perspectives. They will explore the diverse roles art plays in society, from propaganda to social criticism, documentation to subjective expression, and spiritual transcendence to sensual indulgence.
• Key Features:
• Global Perspective:
The program encourages studying abroad during the junior year, allowing students to explore artistic cultures in various cities. They can study at Suffolk's Madrid campus or partner universities worldwide.
• Boston's Rich Cultural Resources: Students benefit from Boston's renowned architecture and world-class art collections.
Additionally, students can pair their major with a minor in Arts Administration, leveraging offerings from Suffolk's Business School.

Outline:

• Program Structure: The program consists of a series of courses covering various aspects of art history, ranging from ancient to contemporary art.
Students also complete elective courses to tailor their learning experience to specific interests.
• Course Schedule: The program offers a diverse range of courses, with options focusing on specific periods, regions, or themes in art history.
Students can expect a mix of lectures, seminars, and discussions.
• Ancient Art:
Exploring art from Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, and Rome.
• Medieval Art: Examining the artistic expressions of the Byzantine, Romanesque, and Gothic periods.
• Renaissance Art: Analyzing the artistic developments of the 14th to 16th centuries in Italy and Northern Europe.
• Baroque and Rococo Art: Studying the dramatic and ornate artistic styles of the 17th and 18th centuries.
• Modern and Contemporary Art: Exploring the diverse movements and styles of the 20th and 21st centuries.
• Non-Western Art: Examining artistic traditions from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Indigenous cultures.

Assessment:

• Assessment Methods: The program likely utilizes various assessment methods, including:
• Essays and research papers requiring in-depth analysis and interpretation of art.
• Presentations and discussions demonstrating critical thinking and communication skills.
• Exams testing knowledge of specific art historical periods and movements.
• Projects involving research and engagement with specific artworks or collections.
• Assessment Criteria: The program likely assesses student work based on their ability to:
• Demonstrate a strong understanding of art historical concepts and terminology.
• Analyze and interpret artworks critically and effectively.
• Integrate knowledge from various sources and perspectives.
• Communicate their ideas clearly and persuasively in written and oral formats.
• Apply theoretical frameworks to real-world examples and case studies.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program likely employs a variety of teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and foster active engagement.
These methods may include:
• Interactive lectures with multimedia presentations and discussions.
• Seminars focused on close analysis of specific artworks or topics.
• Group projects encouraging collaboration and teamwork.
• Hands-on workshops enhancing practical skills and understanding.
• Field trips to museums and galleries for direct interaction with art.
• Faculty: The program boasts dedicated and experienced faculty members with expertise in various areas of art history.
• Integrating digital tools and resources into the curriculum.
• Encouraging interdisciplinary perspectives by collaborating with other departments.
• Providing opportunities for students to curate their exhibitions or conduct research projects.

Careers:

• Career Paths: The program prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in the art world and beyond, including:
• Museum curator or researcher
• Gallery director or manager
• Art historian or critic
• Archivist or librarian
• Art teacher or professor
• Auction house specialist
• Non-profit arts administrator
• Cultural heritage manager
• Art journalist or writer
• Opportunities: The program provides graduates with valuable skills and knowledge applicable to various sectors, including cultural institutions, educational institutions, government agencies, private businesses, and research organizations.
• Outcomes: The program aims to equip graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their chosen careers.

Other:

• Internship Opportunities: The program encourages students to pursue internships at local museums and galleries, providing practical experience and networking opportunities.
• Study Abroad: The program strongly encourages studying abroad during the junior year, allowing students to immerse themselves in different artistic cultures worldwide.
• Suffolk's Resources: Students benefit from access to Suffolk's renovated studio and workshop spaces, as well as the opportunity to minor in Arts Administration.