PROGRAM
Students majoring in Art History move from the two-part
survey of Western art and architecture (ARH 251, 252) to more advanced courses
in each of the major historical periods (Ancient, Medieval, Renaissance,
Baroque, and Modern). Topic courses in film history and architectural history,
as well as thematically-organized courses such as 'Women in Art' or 'The
African-American Artist' are also available. Upper-level students participate
in specialized seminars (e.g. The Image and Idea of the Artist, Public Sculpture
in Rhode Island, The Theory of the Avant Garde,) and individual projects
or internships at local museums or galleries. The B.A. in Art History requires
from 30 to 45 credits in the major (of the total of 120 credits required
for graduation). The study of at least one foreign language is strongly
recommended.
OPTIONS
The Art Department sponsors an exciting exhibition program,
which enables students to meet established artists and brings their work
to our Fine Arts Center galleries. Gallery Internships allow students
to work with the Gallery Director on the planning, preparation, and installation
of shows. External Internships in Art History enable students to
work closely with curators and other professionals at local museums, galleries,
and historical societies. The Rhode Island School of Design Museum in Providence,
the Hera Gallery in Wakefield, The Rhode Island Historical Society, the
Newport Art Museum, and the Slater Museum are some local institutions which
provide internships for URI Art History students. Study Abroad can
be arranged for the Fall, Spring, or Summer semesters.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
The skills developed in the study of Art History encompass
both the humanities and the visual arts. Training in visual analysis, research,
critical thinking, and writing has many applications. Some graduates have
used the Art History major as an educational base for careers in business,
law, or communications, while others have chosen more art-related careers
in fields such as education, art criticism, arts administration, visual
resource management, art therapy, publishing, museum or gallery work, historic
preservation, and work with auction houses or art dealers.
FURTHER STUDIES
In recent years, URI Art History majors have been highly
successful in gaining admission and scholarships to distinguished M.A. and
Ph.D. programs in Art History. Other students have entered M.A. programs
in Historic Preservation, Art Education, Arts Administration, and Art Therapy.
URI alumni in Art History have also gone on to study Library Science, becoming
slide curators or art librarians, while others have gained admission to
Law Schools. |
