Bachelor of Arts in Art History

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Art History at San Francisco State University offers a comprehensive understanding of global art history, developing students' critical thinking, analysis, and communication skills. The program emphasizes field experience, preparing graduates for careers in museums, galleries, writing, and research. It incorporates complementary studies, general education, and specialized courses, providing a well-rounded foundation in art history and related disciplines.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Bachelor of Arts in Art History program at San Francisco State University provides students with the opportunity to delve into the visual cultures of the past and present on a global scale. The 36-unit degree comprises a curated sequence of courses, starting with introductory surveys and progressing through specialized lectures, advanced topics, and culminating in a senior capstone seminar. This structured approach equips students with the analytical skills necessary to interpret visual art within diverse historical, social, political, and cultural contexts. The program strategically leverages the rich cultural resources, galleries, and museums of the Bay Area, fostering a dynamic learning environment. Students are encouraged to gain practical field experience through internships, further enhancing their understanding of the art world. This program prepares students for a diverse range of careers, including:

• Administrative or curatorial roles in museums, galleries, and auction houses
• Writing and editorial positions
• Graduate study in art history, museum/curatorial studies, or conservation

Program Learning Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of the Art History program, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of art history: Identify major artists, works, and movements; define key terms, concepts, and theories; and grasp diverse historical, social, political, cultural, and ideological perspectives.
• Develop critical thinking, formal analysis, and visual literacy skills: Interpret and evaluate the meaning of art and visual culture.
• Enhance verbal expression and oral presentation skills: Engage in both informal discussions and formal presentations.
• Master writing and research skills: Effectively utilize these skills in both informal discussions and formal contexts.
• Apply art historical methodology and theoretical models: Demonstrate proficiency in these areas.
• Exhibit curiosity, risk-taking, experimentation, problem-solving, collaboration, and compassion: Integrate these qualities into class discussions, group work, and research/writing.
• Understand the ethical dimensions of artistic practice and scholarship: Analyze artistic practices and scholarship within a global context, considering power dynamics related to class, gender, race, and geopolitics.
• Gain foundational knowledge of artistic practice and process: Utilize this knowledge to interpret works of art and enhance research and scholarly processes.

Careers:

The Art History program prepares students for a diverse range of career paths, including:

• Administrative or curatorial roles: Museums, galleries, and auction houses
• Writing and editorial positions: Art publications and institutions
• Graduate study: Art history, museum/curatorial studies, or conservation

Other:

• Steps to Change Major: Juniors or seniors wishing to change their major to Art History must change the major online and meet with an art history advisor for approval.
• Advising: Students are strongly encouraged to consult with a major advisor regularly.
• Transfer Students: A minimum of 12 units in residence is required for transfer students.
• Complementary Studies: All Art History majors must complete 12 units of Complementary Studies from courses outside of the Art History department.
These units can be fulfilled through:
• Coursework in a single foreign language
• Museum Studies Minor
• Approved study abroad program
• Partial completion of a second major or minor
• Coursework in a related area of study.
• General Education Requirements: The program outlines the general education requirements for the Bachelor of Arts degree in Art History, including lower-division and upper-division courses in areas like oral communication, written English communication, critical thinking, physical science, life science, mathematics, arts, humanities, social sciences, and lifelong learning.
• Roadmaps: The program provides detailed roadmaps for both first-time and transfer students, outlining course schedules and recommended pathways for completing the degree.
• Transfer Student Roadmap: A specific roadmap is provided for students who have earned an Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T) in Art History, ensuring degree completion within 60 units.
• General Advising Information for Transfer Students: Students are advised to complete as many lower-division requirements and electives as possible before transferring, including courses in U.S. History and U.S. & California Government.
• Credit for Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, or College-Level Examination Program courses: Students should submit official score reports to SF State for potential credit transfer.