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Art History

  • Minor

The Art History Minor is a degree program that embodies what the founder of Saint Vincent College, Boniface Wimmer, meant when he stated that we will teach our students, “first what is necessary, then what is useful, and finally, that which is beautiful.” Students can study ancient art, photography, film studies or musical theatre.

In the Art History program, there are many opportunities to embrace the history of the arts beyond the classroom, such as:

  • The proximity to Pittsburgh, which allows students access to nationally-recognized artistic organizations.
  • The Verostko Center for the Arts, which hosts temporary exhibitions of regionally and nationally recognized artists and the senior exhibitions of graduating art students,.
  • The Foster and Muriel McCarl Collection of 19th-century American coverlets (housed in the Fred Rogers Center) is an important resource for American craft and history.

What Can I Do With a Minor in Art History?

Students who successfully complete the Art History Minor will have a solid background in the liberal arts, western art history and academic research methods and writing. Graduates of the program will be prepared to enter art history graduate programs or lower level museum positions. It is recommended that all graduates of the program enter a graduate school art history or museology program.

Curriculum Requirements

  • Requirements for a Minor in Art History

    Minor Requirements (18 credits)

    Required courses (6 credits)
    AR 101 Art History I: Ancient through Renaissance - 3 credits
    AR 102 Art History II: Baroque to the Present - 3 credits

    Four courses selected from (12 credits)
    AR 145 Introduction to Film Studies - 3 credits
    AR 205 World Art History - 3 credits
    AR 310 American Art and Architecture - 3 credits
    AR 355 Pre-Renaissance Art and Architecture Seminar - 3credits
    AR 360 Renaissance Art and Architecture - 3 credits
    AR 365 Baroque Art and Architecture - 3 credits
    AR 370 Avant-Garde Art: 19th and 20th Century - 3credits
    AR 385 Contemporary Art Seminar - 3 credits

Program Highlights

Internships and Careers in Art History

Students who complete the Art History program may be employed or continue their education as:

  • Graduate school programs
  • Museum professionals
  • Arts organization managers

Student Learning Outcomes

Students will:      

  • analyze the artistic styles of the Western tradition and at least one style from the non-western traditions.
  • apply vocabulary related to making art.
  • use a variety of materials and techniques, including digital tools.
  • apply professional standards of exhibition and portfolio development.
  • develop their observational skills shown by their use of a representational style.