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The language of visual culture speaks across boundaries of history and geography, resonating powerfully in every society. The study of art history is the study of the expression of personal and social truths through painting, sculpture, architecture, photography and other fine and popular arts. As an art history major, you will draw on aspects of literature, history, critical theory, philosophy, anthropology and cultural studies in your efforts to understand the complex reasons that people create, support and value the visual arts.
Real World
A major in art history develops critical thinking and the integration of research and knowledge. It provides an excellent grounding for professions as diverse as law, medicine and business. The major prepares students for advanced study in art history, architecture and cultural studies. It also serves as the foundation for careers in teaching, arts administration, museums, galleries, historic preservation, art libraries, publishing, journalism, advertising, art conservation and art investment. As the world becomes increasingly flooded with images, critical visual "reading" skills become more and more important for a wide range of careers.
Major Requirements
As a student majoring in art history, you will begin with courses that survey the arts of Asia, Europe, and America. More specialized lecture courses and proseminars follow in global art and visual culture from ancient times to the present day. You are also encouraged to complement the major with advanced work in related disciplines such as classics, religion, history, philosophy, literature, sociology, anthropology, cultural studies and foreign languages.
Major Adviser
Name: Ariel Collatz
Contact: acollatz@ucdavis.edu , (530) 752-0105
A Student Perspective
Art is a language spoken by all peoples of the world, and I can't think of a better way to get to know my neighbors than to look at their art and possibly to share some of my own. The instructors are incredibly enthusiastic about their areas of expertise, and are very willing to assist students in preparing papers, doing research and focusing on their studies. As a whole, the department is a welcoming and nurturing environment.
~ Aaron Sikes, senior
A Faculty Perspective
Art history at Davis is an exceptionally supportive program. Every member of the faculty truly cares about how well the students do, and the students know and care about each other. We operate more like a small college than a big university. We offer exciting and broad-based intellectual training, both a good college experience and a strong foundation for career development.
~ Jeff Ruda, faculty adviser
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