Minors in art history, film studies, studio art and arts management are also available. A program for students working toward a teaching credential is included within the curriculum and available through the education department. Several art and film history courses meet general education requirements. Designed specifically for the pursuit of art practices and the study of art history, film history and arts management, the department facilities are located in one of the best equipped physical plants in the country. The programs are directed by a faculty of professional artists and scholars dedicated to their students and to the pursuit of their own creative and scholarly work.
Students also have access to developing new technologies in a number of areas.
It is the departmental philosophy that a grasp of the history and theory of art is indispensable for the studio major and that creative activity is invaluable to the student of art history. Art history is an interdisciplinary program within the department with a core of period and survey courses which provide an integrative investigation of art and culture using both traditional and new approaches and technologies. The curriculum provides a broad overview of traditional European contributions, an introduction to the arts outside the European tradition, familiarity with historical methodology and research, including online and electronic sources, and critical thinking. As a demonstration of mastery of skills and knowledge in the field, art history requires students to write a senior thesis, which indicates original research or interpretation. With prior approval of the faculty, students may write a more elaborate honors thesis in place of the senior thesis.