59 / 256
Birmingham-Southern College Catalog 2017-2018
58
ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
Art History
Bachelor of Arts
Timothy B. Smith, Kathleen Spies
The program in art history aims to develop visual literacy in today’s world through
courses offered for those pursing a major or minor in the field, as well as those seeking
general education credit. Emphasis is placed on the critical examination of visual culture,
from antiquity to the present, with works of art and architecture considered from the
standpoint of their original historical contexts. A degree in art history prepares students
for graduate study in the discipline and/or for a wide range of careers, including museum
and gallery work, teaching, art criticism and journalism, art conservation, and arts
management; it also provides a solid liberal arts foundation for further study leading to
professional vocations in fields such as architecture, law, pharmacy, and ministry.
Upon completion of the art history major, students will be able to
•
utilize art historical terminology and techniques
•
analyze artworks within a social-historical context
•
explain theoretical models and practical research methodologies in the discipline
•
demonstrate written and oral communication skills
Major Requirements
The following courses are required (12 units):
ARH 215
ARH 216
ARH 250
ARH 473
six additional units in art history (ARH), with at least two focused on
art pre-1800 and at least two on art post-1800
two units in studio art (AR); HON 216 may count as a studio unit
Minor Requirements
The following courses are required (5 units):
ARH 215
ARH 216
two additional units in art history (ARH)
one unit in studio art (AR); HON 216 may count as a studio unit
Art history majors with studio art minors may use ARH 215 and/or ARH 216 to satisfy
both major and minor requirements. However, art history courses at the 300 level and
above cannot be used to satisfy both major and minor requirements.