European Art History Cert | Diploma

Program Overview

The European Art History Diploma from University College Cork (UCC) provides a two-year, part-time exploration of art history from ancient Egypt to contemporary Europe. Through courses, essays, field trips, and online discussions, students develop critical thinking and visual analysis skills, gaining a comprehensive understanding of European art and its cultural contexts. The program welcomes students seeking personal enrichment and professional development in fields where art appreciation and analysis are valuable.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The European Art History Diploma is a two-year part-time program offered by University College Cork (UCC) in Ireland. It provides a comprehensive survey of European art history from the fifth century BCE to contemporary practice. The program aims to introduce students to significant artists, sculptors, and architects within the disciplinary canon, examining their work within the broader social and cultural context of its production. It also explores how significant works have been cited throughout the history of European art. The program develops critical visual analysis through close reading of artworks themselves and associated literature.

Outline:

The program is structured into two years, with specific modules for each year:

Year 1:

• AD1097: The Early Renaissance: This module explores the artistic developments of the Early Renaissance period, focusing on key artists and their contributions.
• AD1098: The High Renaissance: This module delves into the High Renaissance, examining the artistic achievements of masters like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael.
• AD1099: The Art of the Middle Ages: This module covers the artistic expressions of the Middle Ages, exploring various styles and movements.
• HA1800: The Introduction to the Formation of European Art History: This module provides a foundational understanding of the development of art history as a discipline.

Year 2:

• AD2871: Revolutions and Reactions: This module examines the artistic responses to major historical events and social changes.
• AD2872: A Crisis of Tradition: This module explores the challenges to traditional artistic conventions and the emergence of new movements.
• HA2802: Birth of Contemporary Art: This module delves into the origins and evolution of contemporary art, exploring its diverse forms and expressions.

Assessment:

Assessment methods include:

• Essays: Students will write essays to demonstrate their understanding of specific topics and their ability to analyze artworks.
• Learning Journals: Students will maintain journals to reflect on their learning experiences and critical thinking processes.
• Field Trip Reports: Students will write reports based on their observations and insights from study trips to galleries and museums.
• Online Discussion Forums: Students will participate in online discussions to engage with course materials and share their perspectives.

Teaching:

The program is taught by faculty members from the History of Art and Adult Continuing Education departments. These staff members are active teachers and researchers in the field of art history and cultural history. The program incorporates a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures: Lectures provide a structured overview of key concepts and historical periods.
• Seminars: Seminars offer opportunities for in-depth discussions and critical analysis of artworks.
• Field Trips: Study trips to galleries and museums provide hands-on learning experiences and expose students to original artworks.
• Develop a deeper understanding of art and culture.
It also explores the concept of European identity as displayed through the visual arts, beginning with Egypt and Classical Greece and ending with art in the twenty-first century. The program welcomes participants from diverse backgrounds, including those seeking personal enrichment and those pursuing professional development.