Art History Minor

Program Overview

Through critical analysis, students develop an expansive understanding of art's role in society, culture, and personal expression. The program equips graduates with transferable skills for careers in museum work, art criticism, education, and more, while fostering a deep appreciation for the transformative power of art.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Art History Minor at SOU offers students the chance to delve deeper into the captivating world of art, exploring its rich history and diverse theoretical frameworks. The program invites critical analysis of art and creative expression across various periods and perspectives, encouraging students to think outside the box and develop an expansive lens for interpreting art history. Advanced courses delve into historical and contemporary works with a focus on thought-provoking themes like activism, social engagement, globalization, sustainability, and issues concerning race, gender, and ethnicity.

Outline:

The program's curriculum equips students with a thorough understanding of art throughout history, from the dawn of human creativity to the contemporary art era. Students engage with challenging concepts, gain expertise in prominent artistic periods, and cultivate innovative approaches to understanding the world around them.

Assessment:

Evaluation methods within the program encompass various approaches, including:

• Active participation in class discussions and activities: This component allows students to demonstrate their grasp of course material and engage in critical dialogue with peers and instructors.
• Thoughtful written assignments and research projects: Students apply their knowledge through analytical essays, research papers, and creative projects, exploring diverse themes and demonstrating their ability to synthesize information and articulate their understanding of art history.
• Presentations and group projects: Collaborative endeavors encourage students to refine their communication skills, teamwork abilities, and effective presentation techniques.

Teaching:

The program boasts a dedicated team of experienced faculty, well-versed in art history and passionate about sharing their expertise. The instructors employ diverse teaching methods to foster an engaging and enriching learning environment, including:

• Interactive lectures: Professors deliver stimulating lectures that introduce key concepts, historical periods, and artistic movements.
• In-depth discussions: Vibrant classroom dialogues encourage critical analysis, interpretation, and diverse perspectives on art and its historical context.
• Close examination of artworks: Students engage with original artworks and reproductions, fostering their visual literacy and analytical skills.
• Field trips to museums and galleries: Experiential learning opportunities expose students to real-world art and allow them to interact with works firsthand.
• Individualized feedback and mentorship: Instructors provide personalized guidance and support to each student, fostering their academic and intellectual growth.

Careers:

The Art History Minor equips graduates with valuable skills and knowledge transferable to a wide range of careers, including:

• Museum and gallery work: Graduates can pursue roles as curators, educators, administrators, and researchers within cultural institutions.
• Art criticism and journalism: The program prepares individuals to analyze and write about art for publications, online platforms, and other media outlets.
• Art appraisal and valuation: Graduates can develop expertise in assessing the value of artworks for insurance purposes or private collectors.
• Art education: Individuals can become educators in various settings, sharing their passion for art with students of all ages.
• Arts administration: The program equips graduates with the skills needed to manage arts organizations, galleries, and cultural events.

Other:

The Art History Minor complements a diverse range of majors, enriching studies in business, environmental science, education, and other fields. The program enhances graduates' critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills, making them more well-rounded and competitive in the job market. Additionally, the program fosters a deep appreciation for art and its ability to illuminate diverse perspectives, cultures, and historical contexts.