Art History B.A.

Bachelor of Arts
College of the Arts, School of Art and Design
(770) 423-6139

The Art History major introduces students to visual culture from a range of periods, regions, and contexts, and it teaches them how to analyze both objects and texts as historical evidence. It trains students to examine all aspects of visual culture in society, including its techniques, makers, patrons, viewers, and collectors. The program is rigorous, global, and interdisciplinary: students explore art history and its theoretical methods, and they take courses in related disciplines such as anthropology, film studies, gender and women’s studies, history, literature, philosophy, and studio art. Students also study at least one ancient or modern language that is associated with their main area of interest. Throughout their programs, they learn how to do independent research, to construct effective arguments, and to produce well-written prose. Alumni have found the curriculum to be especially helpful preparation for work in museums, galleries, and graduate school. And because it improves marketable skills in critical thinking and communication, art history is not just a pre-professional major for future art historians. It is an effective major for students who plan to enter a variety of careers, including those in business, law, private and non-profit organizations, professional writing, and publishing.