Bachelor of Arts [B.A] [Art History] From University of Houston

Art history was established as an academic discipline in Europe and the U.S. in the nineteenth century. Art historians work in both universities and museums and typically study art in its broader cultural and intellectual context.

Faculty members in art history teach a wide range of broadly defined lecture courses and more specialized seminars in their areas of research. Subjects regularly taught by the full-time faculty in art history include Pre-Columbian Art; Latin American Art; Medieval Art; Northern Renaissance and Baroque Art; Twentieth Century American and European Art; Contemporary Arts; and the History of Photography. Affiliate instructors enrich these offering with additional courses, including Eighteenth and Nineteenth Century European Art, and Twentieth Century Design.

Students majoring in art history take a total of 12 courses (36 hours) in art history and 3 courses (9 hours) outside of art history that complement their studies in the field. Basic survey courses and a seminar on art historical theory and method are required for all majors, as is a range of courses in each of four broad periods and cultures. Students can also develop proposals for independent research or projects related to internships, for which, with faculty approval they can receive academic credit.

The Houston community is a rich environment in which to study art and art history. Its large and diverse range of art collections include, among others, the renowned Museum of Fine Arts and its branches in decorative arts, the Museum of Printing History, and the Menil Collection, which have permanent collections. The Holocaust and Contemporary Arts Museums, and the Center for Contemporary Craft, as well as many alternative art spaces and galleries focus on traveling exhibitions. Art History students are encouraged to avail themselves of these collections for coursework, internships, and general self-enrichment.